If you have stuck to your budget and practiced smart financial habits all year, you deserve a break. National Splurge Day is celebrated on June 18th and even though it’s not an official holiday, it’s still an opportunity to indulge a bit.
Whether you plan on treating yourself to a special purchase or simply spending quality time with loved ones, everyone deserves a quick splurge every now and then. Just be sure not to break the bank.
Here are some of our favorite ideas:
Home and Kitchen Appliances
Any home appliance that can simplify your day-to-day responsibilities is a splurge-worthy purchase. And with technology rapidly advancing, it’s important to stay up to date with the latest gadgets and trends.
Vacuum Cleaner
If your current vacuum is too bulky or inefficient, it might be time to replace it. For example, you may want one that isn’t as loud as a jet or that can thoroughly clean those hard-to-reach spots. In this case, a small robot machine vacuum or a stick vacuum could be a good choice.
Air Fryer
People can’t stop talking about this latest must-have item that reduces calories and saves time while enhancing flavor. Not only can they cook meals faster than an oven, but in many cases, your food will even taste better. Roast chicken and French fries, for example, are some of the top-rated air fryer foods.
Rice Cooker
Much like an air fryer, a rice cooker can also help you prepare food in a shorter amount of time. But don’t let the name fool you since these cookers can cook more than just rice. They can also be used to make quinoa, oatmeal, steamed dumplings or vegetables, among other foods.
Coffee or Espresso Machine
Frequent visits to your local coffee shop can be convenient, but they aren’t very kind to your wallet. Let’s say you spend about $6 on coffee twice a week. Twelve dollars may not seem like much, but that adds up to about $60 a month! This money could be going toward your savings or paying off any debt you may owe.
Having your own coffee or espresso maker, on the other hand, can provide the caffeine boost you need while also keeping cash in your pocket. You can always learn how to make your favorite drinks from home.
Portable Blender
Despite their small size, “mini” or portable blenders come with several big advantages. They don’t take up much space, are relatively easy to transport, and are typically cheaper than a regular-sized countertop blender. One can also come in handy when you are racing against the clock and need to prepare your morning smoothie or protein shake on the go.
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Special Events:
If you are passionate about sports, music, or other types of live entertainment, buying yourself a ticket is a splurge-worthy purchase. Coupon websites like Groupon can often help you find great deals.
Live Sporting Events
When was the last time you watched your favorite sports team? Whether you enjoy watching football, basketball, baseball, soccer or any other popular sport, attending a game in person is a significant upgrade from watching it on a TV screen. In fact, new research indicates that attending live sporting events can improve levels of well-being and reduce feelings of loneliness.
Live Music
Much like sporting events, live music also has the power to release “feel good” hormones like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins. If listening to your favorite artists through your earbuds is already a mood booster, imagine seeing them at their best in person. In addition, concerts can provide a sense of community as different people gather to enjoy what they all have in common—the performer’s music.
Stand-up Comedy
If you are in need of a good laugh – and who isn’t – check out local comedy events. Some of them might even be free! Whether you decide to go by yourself or with friends, a comedy show can be a great way to lift your spirits.
Local Theater
Watching a play at your local theater can be a fun night out for the whole family—especially if you appreciate the fine arts. Do some research online to find current or upcoming plays in your area.
Travel
If you need to use up some vacation days, now is the perfect time! With the kids at home for summer break, it’s easier to plan family (or solo) vacations. As long as your trips consist of making new memories, going on adventures, and spending quality time together, money used for travel can pay you back in spades.
Keep in mind that trips don’t necessarily need to consist of traveling long distances and spending astronomical amounts on airlines and hotels. In fact, you can save money on vacation expenses by finding activities nearby that the whole family can enjoy.
Exercise Equipment
If fitness is an important part of your daily life, purchasing exercise equipment could be a smart investment. Having your own treadmill or exercise bike, for example, can not only help you stay in shape, but it can even save you trips to the gym. Plus, you can raise those endorphins in the process.
Self-Care Items
Sometimes a bit of pampering is needed to de-stress. This is especially helpful when you come home after a long day and need to recharge. While self-care may look different for everyone, here are some go-to items that can help you relax both mentally and physically:
- Massage tools (e.g., a heated massage cushion, an electric foot massager, a hand-held massager, etc.)
- Skincare products (e.g., moisturizers, cleansers, eye creams, face masks, etc.)
- Comfort items (e.g., fuzzy socks, bathrobe, blankets, loungewear, slippers)
- Bath bombs or bath salts
- Scented candles
- Essential oils
Clothing and Accessories
Despite what you may believe, new clothing and accessories can be worth the splurge—especially if you need to replace certain items in your wardrobe. For example, you may need a new pair of sneakers if your current ones are worn out and falling apart.
Treating yourself to other items that catch your eye is also okay—as long as you have room for them in your closet and your budget.
Technological Essentials
Being equipped with the latest technology is almost essential nowadays. Therefore, purchasing new tech items every now and then can be more than worth the money.
Smartphones, for example, are essential for communication, research, and even entertainment. If your current phone is several years old and lagging, it may be time for a new one! Computers, laptops, and tablets serve the same purpose—except these take higher priority if you need them for work or school.
Hobbies
Do you have a special hobby you’re passionate about? Remember that even while on a budget, you should make time for those things you enjoy.
If you like to paint, you can check out new colors you could incorporate into your artwork. If you collect special items such as vinyl records, coins, trading cards, or antiques, consider adding a new item or two to your collection—just don’t break the bank.
Splurge at your own risk
Keep in mind that splurging should always be done responsibly; otherwise, it can lead to debt. If you are currently in arrears, it’s important to prioritize paying off your creditors. In this case, spending should be kept to a minimum or postponed until you are in a stronger financial position.
You can always make those special purchases when you feel ready and even reward yourself for being financially responsible. Remember that everyone deserves to treat themselves at some point so be sure to splurge on June 18th—but do it wisely!
