Buying things brand new isn’t always the smartest move for your wallet—or the planet. Some items lose value faster than you hit “checkout.” Choosing used or older versions can help you save money and stay on track with your monthly budget. Here are 11 brand-new purchases that just don’t make sense.
Clothing
New clothes come with hefty price tags that aren’t always worth it. On-trend fashions fade quickly, leaving you with items that rarely ever leave your closet. Thrift stores offer gently-worn clothes at a fraction of the cost—and you’ll often find higher-quality brands, too. Plus, it’s a win for anyone embracing frugal living while making eco-conscious choices.
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Smartphones
Every time a new smartphone hits the market, older models immediately drop in price. Sure, the latest version has fancy features, but do you really need them? Refurbished phones or last year’s model run just as smoothly but cost hundreds less. If you’re serious about saving money, stop paying full price for incremental upgrades.
Furniture
You might love the smell of brand-new furniture, but it won’t love your budget back. Furniture’s value tanks the minute you get it home—kind of like a new car. Look for secondhand options in local marketplaces or thrift shops. Used furniture often has more character and costs significantly less, leaving you more cash for other essentials in your budget.
Best-Selling Books
That $25 novel will probably cost $5 a month from now when someone sells it online. Libraries, used bookstores, or online marketplaces often have what you’re looking for at a steal. If you’re avid about reading without breaking the bank, secondhand is the way to go. Plus, books hardly “expire,” so you’re not losing in quality.
Brand New Cars
Nothing depreciates faster than a vehicle. A new car can lose nearly 20% of its value once it’s driven off the lot. A three-year-old version of the same car? Way cheaper but still in great shape. Choosing a recent model used car is a staple move in frugal living—and it lets you keep your financial freedom steering straight.
Baby Gear
Babies outgrow everything ridiculously fast, making high-ticket cribs, strollers, or baby swings a questionable investment. Gently-used baby gear is all over secondhand marketplaces. Borrow from friends and family when possible. You’ll save tons and stay on track with other money goals, whatever they may be.
Holiday Decor
Every holiday season, stores roll out expensive, sparkly new decorations. But by January, those same items are sitting in thrift stores for pennies. Shopping secondhand for seasonal items ensures you stay festive while maintaining your money makeover. You can stash away savings or put it toward more meaningful expenses without sacrificing decorations.
Kitchen Appliances
Specialty kitchen tools like air fryers and ice cream makers may look exciting but often go unused. Instead of buying new, consider preowned or secondhand options. Focus on multi-functional tools that match your cooking style. It’s a smarter way to save money while keeping your kitchen practical.
Home Gym Equipment
Home gym setups are pricey and often end up unused after the initial excitement wanes. Instead of new, watch out for people selling theirs at massive discounts. If you’re looking to save money on fitness, consider renting or joining a community gym instead of splurging on brand-new equipment you’re not sure you’ll use long-term.
High-End Jewelry
Diamonds may be forever, but their resale value isn’t great. Preowned jewelry often costs half the price and looks just as stunning. Pawn shops, estate sales, or online marketplaces are great places to score luxury pieces for far less. If living debt free is one of your priorities, avoid splurging on new.
Textbooks
New college textbooks are obscenely expensive and absolutely unnecessary. Book rentals, PDF versions, or used copies can save hundreds every semester. Check your college’s student library or online resources before shelling out cash on books you’ll barely open.
How Reconsidering “New” Helps You Win
Changing how you shop doesn’t just put more cash in your pocket—it sets the stage for financial freedom. Saving big on secondhand goods frees up money to pay off debt or stash into savings. So before you reach for shiny and “brand-new,” think about what buying smarter can do for your budget. Living frugally doesn’t mean doing without—it just means doing better for yourself and your future.
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