Some things have surprisingly high price tags. But we keep buying them anyway! Whether it’s out of habit, social pressure, or clever marketing, we buy these items over and over again. Here are 12 oddly expensive items people continue to purchase without thinking twice.
1. Bottled Water
Did you know that the average American uses around 167 plastic water bottles per year? Despite tap water often being just as safe, people spend billions yearly on bottled water. For some people, it’s mostly for convenience. However, it comes with a hefty price tag. Drinking the recommended 8 glasses of water per day costs about $0.49 per year from the tap, but $1,400 with bottled water.
2. Printer Ink
Ounce for ounce, printer ink can cost more than luxury perfume. Yet most people blindly pay for overpriced cartridges without seeking alternatives. Laser printers and ink tank printers are more cost-effective options. You can also save money with generic cartridges or subscription refill services.
3. Cable TV
With streaming options widely available for less, traditional cable bundles remain bizarrely expensive. But millions still hold onto them. In fact, 51% of Americans still have cable TV. Some people hold on for comfort and live sports. But most say that it’s just what they are used to.
4. Name-Brand Cereal
Generic cereals are often identical in taste and ingredients, yet people pay a premium for the label and box design. For some, it may be nostalgia or familiarity. But for most, marketing plays a large role in purchasing decisions. Perceived popularity makes many Americans continue to pay for expensive name-brand cereal.
5. Greeting Cards
A folded piece of cardstock with a printed message can cost up to $10. But we still buy them for every occasion. The psychology of greeting cards is quite fascinating. When we receive a card, there is an emotional response. It’s no surprise that we’ve been sending illustrated cards since the 15th century. However, card companies have capitalized on this, charging more each year for greeting cards.
6. Movie Theater Snacks
A small popcorn and soda can cost more than the movie ticket itself. Still, many gladly hand over the cash for the experience. Many movie theaters choose to raise the price of concessions instead of ticket prices. But when you’re at a movie theater, your only choice for a snack is in-house options. Plus, that popcorn smells so good!
7. Luxury Baby Gear
From $1,000 strollers to designer diaper bags, many parents splurge on high-end baby items that have cheaper equivalents. Even though many of their counterparts are just as effective and safe, parents are often drawn to luxury brands. Perceived quality and social status play a role in these purchasing decisions.
8. Gym Memberships
Thousands pay monthly fees for gym access they never use, either out of guilt or optimism that “next month” will be different. In fact, Americans spend $1.3 billion on unused memberships. Many gyms capitalize on people who never use their memberships, often locking them into a yearly contract. Yet, we still pay for it year after year.
9. Textbooks
College students regularly shell out hundreds or thousands for textbooks. Some of these textbooks never get read or are available for free online. Many textbooks are available used as well. But students still shell out money for brand-new ones. Sometimes it’s as simple as wanting a brand-new and clean copy of the book.
10. Branded Phone Chargers
A generic charger can cost $10, but some people still insist on paying $40 for one with a brand logo. Many third-party chargers are just as effective and meet the same safety standards. In some cases, branded options are made in the same factories as generics. Unless your device requires a specific fast-charging protocol, a cheaper charger will usually do the job just fine.
11. Designer Coffee
Many happily spend $6 or more on a cup of coffee daily, even when the same beans could be brewed at home for a fraction of the cost. The appeal often lies in convenience, habit, and the “experience” of a café visit. But those daily lattes can quietly drain hundreds or even thousands per year. Investing in a quality coffee maker or espresso machine can pay for itself in just a few months.
12. Razor Blades
Big brands charge a premium for replacement razor cartridges, though cheaper options or subscriptions offer the same shave. Some people just love using a certain brand, even if it comes with an oddly high price tag. Safety razors and electric shavers can also be more affordable in the long run. Many subscription services even offer free trial kits to help you make the switch.
Rethink What You’re Paying For
It’s easy to fall into spending habits without questioning the true value of what we’re buying. From overpriced coffee to luxury razor blades, many everyday items come with inflated costs simply because of branding or convenience. Taking a moment to consider cheaper alternatives or whether you need the item at all can lead to big savings over time.
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