With today’s inflation, it’s no secret that most things are now more expensive than they were only a few years ago. This has forced many to make the tough decision to cut certain things from their daily lives.
Unfortunately, the money saved isn’t splurged on other wants. Instead, this money is used to cover rising living expenses. Here, we list many everyday activities that many love but that inflation has cut from their lives.
1. Dining at Upscale Restaurants
With rising grocery prices, restaurants are suffering. According to BLS, restaurant prices rose 4% last year, so it’s no surprise that many have had to stop eating out frequently.
Despite rising grocery prices, groceries are still cheaper than restaurant meals. Consider that you can easily spend $20 or more per restaurant meal, which doesn’t include tips.
2. Attending Live Sporting Events
Sporting events have also risen in price. The money you spend on gas and goods can prove more expensive than the ticket itself. Although not the same experience, if you’re a true sports fan, you may be better off purchasing a streaming sports package to never miss a game.
3. Going to the Movies
Many people still enjoy going to the movies. If you can get past the expensive popcorn and drinks, movie theaters offer a unique experience. However, during the COVID pandemic, most were forced to stay home, sparking a demand for streaming services.
Additionally, since most theaters shut down at the time, many found alternatives to watching movies. Paying over $10 for a movie ticket alone is too expensive for many, even if they can afford it. Often, the food and drinks can cost more than the ticket itself.
4. Visiting Amusement Parks
You may be surprised that seasonal amusement parks like Six Flags are now open year-round. However, a single-day pass can cost you $75 per person. Unless you bring your own food and periodically step out of the park, expect to purchase drinks and goods at some point.
Depending on where you buy your food at amusement parks, expect to spend $10 or more per meal. Many parks offer daily passes. However, it’s easy to see why many won’t be able to afford these costs.
5. High-Cost Fitness Classes
Gym memberships can cost $50 or more, depending on the gym’s size. Often, gyms justify this cost by offering pools, spas, and much more. However, most people only have time for their daily workouts.
Although joining fitness classes or hiring a personal trainer offers value, they come at an additional cost. Expect to pay per session or by the hour. If you don’t go to the gym more than three times per week, it’s easy to see why some gyms are too pricey to justify the expense.
6. Apparel Shopping
Inflation has also impacted the price of clothes. However, unlike many things on this list, clothes can last you for years. Instead of buying cheap or low-quality clothes that follow short-term trends, purchase only quality apparel.
To find good clothes at an affordable price, shop only from the store sales section and consider visiting local thrift stores. You’d be surprised how often you’ll be able to snag quality clothes at affordable prices.
7. Taking Ubers
Prices will vary depending on your location, but expect to pay more than $10 per Uber ride. This doesn’t include tips. If you live in a city, taking an Uber may be more convenient than taking the train. However, with rising costs, many are forced to use the cheaper option.
8. Drinking Coffee Daily
Drinking coffee has never been cheap. However, paying more than $5 for your favorite drink is fiscally irresponsible. If you enjoy a custom drink, consider finding the recipe and making it at home.
Generally, expect to pay less than $1 for your cup of coffee if you buy it in bulk. If purchasing $5 coffees daily was your favorite habit, inflation has made it more expensive for you.
9. Subscribing to Multiple Streaming Services
During the COVID pandemic, many subscribed to multiple streaming services to cure what felt like infinite boredom. However, having numerous streaming services is no longer cheap. Consider that a single streaming service can cost you more than $10! Instead, share streaming services with your friends and family to save money.
10. Traveling on Weekends or Holidays
Unless you’re traveling locally, expect to pay over $1,000 for airfare, food, and hotel. Traveling is starting to feel like a luxury for many. Despite rising prices, you can still look forward to traveling with your family, but make sure to budget accordingly.
Although tempting, avoid making travel purchases with your credit card if you don’t already have the money.
11. Attending Concerts and Theater Shows
Generally, when attending a concert, you must factor in transportation and food costs. On average, a concert ticket will cost you over $100. Many raving fans will spend thousands to see their favorite artists. However, with long commutes and lots of traffic when leaving the event, concerts have become expensive in terms of time and money.
12. Renting Luxury Vehicles
Online prices will often state affordable prices, but renting most vehicles can easily cost you hundreds for a few days. Additionally, many companies will offer you an extended warranty, increasing your overall costs. Many are forced to use their own vehicles for long trips.
However, if you find yourself in need of a rental, consider skipping adding additional insurance. Many large credit card companies offer this protection at no extra cost.
13. Shopping for Organic Groceries
As mentioned before, grocery prices have gone up. Although organic food is healthier, many are opting for cheaper alternatives. These are often packed with unhealthy pesticides and fillers. If possible, trim any other expenses to be able to afford as much organic food as possible.
14. Staying at 5-Star Hotels
Who doesn’t want to stay in an all-inclusive resort with untold amenities? Unfortunately, with rising costs, an average hotel room costs $148 per night. You can expect to pay five times that for the 5-star experience. It’s easy to see why 5-star hotels are out of reach for most people.
However, don’t let the 5-star experience fool you. With proper research, you can have a great experience at a less expensive hotel.
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