Woman getting a piercing at a tattoo parlor

Gen Z isn’t buying the idea that small luxuries are wasteful. They’ve learned how to enjoy little extras without feeling guilty or careless. While older generations may have called it irresponsible, Gen Z is focused on living well and staying on budget in their own way. Here are eleven little luxuries Gen Z won’t apologize for.

Premium Skincare

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For Gen Z, skincare isn’t just about looking good—it’s about taking care of yourself. They’re choosing high-quality products with clean ingredients and skipping the harsh drugstore basics that don’t deliver. TikTok skincare routines have helped normalize investing in serums, moisturizers, and SPF that actually work. It’s not about vanity—it’s about feeling confident in your skin.

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Daily Iced Coffee

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The daily iced coffee isn’t going anywhere. Whether it’s a signature Starbucks order or a favorite local café, this small luxury is a way to add something enjoyable to a routine day. Gen Z knows it’s not the smartest “money tip,” but they see the value in paying for small comforts that give them a boost—without the guilt.

Personalized Phone Cases

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Phones are basically an extension of your identity, so a plain case just doesn’t cut it anymore. Gen Z is spending a little more on custom cases with charms, bold colors, or pop culture references that show off their personality. It’s a simple way to make a basic item more fun—and more “them.”

Streaming One or Two Favorites

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Gen Z isn’t subscribing to every platform, but they’re keeping the ones they actually use. If paying for HBO or YouTube Premium makes life easier, they see it as money well spent. They’d rather pay for a few favorites than deal with ads or scroll through endless junk.

Aromatherapy and Candles

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Creating a calm, cozy space is a big deal for Gen Z. Scented candles, essential oils, and diffusers help turn their space into something relaxing and personal. These items aren’t just decorative—they help with stress, sleep, and mood. For many, this is part of a daily routine that helps them feel grounded.

Matching Loungewear Sets

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Gen Z has fully embraced the idea that comfort doesn’t have to look sloppy. Matching sets in soft, neutral tones have become wardrobe staples—perfect for working from home, running errands, or just hanging out. They’d rather spend a little more on pieces that feel good and look put together than settle for worn-out sweats.

High-Quality Reusable Water Bottles

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Hydration is a priority, but so is aesthetics. Gen Z is buying stylish, durable water bottles from brands like Stanley, Hydro Flask, and Owala. It’s not just about the trend—it’s about convenience, sustainability, and carrying something they actually like using. A $40 bottle feels worth it when it goes everywhere with you.

Niche Perfumes

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Mass-market scents are out. Gen Z is leaning into unique, lesser-known fragrance brands that feel personal and different. Whether it’s a TikTok-famous indie brand or a discovery set of sample vials, they’re willing to spend more to smell like something they chose—not something everyone else already wears.

Takeout as a Treat

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Ordering food isn’t an everyday thing for most Gen Zers, but when they do, it’s for something they actually enjoy. They’re moving away from constant takeout and treating it as an occasional splurge. It’s a planned treat instead of a mindless habit.

Tattoo Touch-Ups and Piercings

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Body art is a form of self-expression Gen Z doesn’t take lightly. Whether it’s a dainty tattoo, a piercing, or maintaining what they already have, they see it as an investment in identity. These aren’t impulsive choices—they’re meaningful and often deeply personal, which is why the spending feels justified.

Upgraded Tech Accessories

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They may not upgrade their phone every year, but Gen Z puts money into accessories that improve their experience. That means better chargers, cute phone stands, functional cases, and high-quality earbuds. It’s a middle ground between constantly chasing the newest tech and ignoring what enhances daily use.

Comfort Doesn’t Need an Apology

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Gen Z knows how to balance comfort and responsibility. They’re thoughtful about where their money goes—but they’re also clear on what makes their life better. These little luxuries may seem unnecessary to some, but for this generation, they’re worth every dollar. No guilt. No explanation. Just personal choice.

10 Times Luxury Purchases Are Worth Every Penny

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When you think of luxury spending, you likely picture flashy, over-the-top splurges that seem more about showing off than anything else. But believe it or not, there are actually times when treating yourself to something luxurious makes sense. Here are ten situations where spending a little extra might just be worth it. 10 Times Luxury Purchases Are Worth Every Penny