When it comes to big ticket items (and sometimes even small ticket items), the big question is always this: Should I splurge or save? There's no denying that a lot of things — most things, even — fall under the heading of “save.” But these 15 expensive purchases are always worth the money, so if you're in the market for them, you might consider shelling out a few extra bucks. Quality over quantity and all that.
Redditor lemurscreech (who, by the way, has what is possibly my favorite username ever) posted the question, “What purchase is always worth the money?” in the AskReddit sub in the wee hours of the morning — and if there's one thing Reddit is, it's opinionated. As such, it's not exactly surprising that, 12 hours later, the thread has reached a whopping 13,000 comments — epic even by Reddit's standards. The suggestions are still rolling in, but before we get to a point where they're all more or less repeating the same ideas, I've pulled out 15 of the ones I personally found the most useful. One of the biggest rules to follow? If it goes under you or separates you from the ground in any way, a quality item is worth the investment. Just sayin'.
Watch the thread unfold in real time over on AskReddit — and in the meantime, check the list below for the items on which you'll definitely want to splurge.
1. 100 Percent Pure Maple Syrup
None of that “breakfast syrup” nonsense. Trust me. It will make your pancakes/waffles/whatever you like to enjoy with syrup infinitely better.
2. A Trusty Plunger
Just make sure you get the right type:
3. A Really Good Pillow
The same is true for pretty much everything you sleep on or with: Mattresses, sheets, blankets, the works. The improvements in your quality of sleep will definitely justify the cash spent.
4. A Bra That Fits You Correctly
For the love of all that is holy, go get measured. You and your breasts will be so much happier. I promise.
5. Renter's Insurance
You might not think you need it, but it's worth shelling out a few extra bucks a month for. It's comparatively cheap, especially in the event that you actually need it.
6. Cheesecake
The point here isn't the cheesecake; it's the occasional splurge on a food item you really, really enjoy. In the words of Tom Haverford and Donna Meagle:
7. Knives
The kind of knife isn't specified here, but I figure it could go one of two ways: A multi-tool kind of thing, or a knife block for your kitchen. Both are enormously useful, so you may as well make sure you get knives that will last.
8. Amazon Prime
Technically this one isn't that expensive, but it's definitely worth it. The Amazon Instant Video stuff is just a bonus — it's all about the two-day shipping. It pays for itself in no time at all.
9. A Quality Vacuum
As someone who owns two cats and subsequently finds cat hair everywhere, all the time, I cannot stress the value of a good vacuum cleaner enough. According to this vacuum cleaner repair person's AMA, a Hoover or a Riccar are your best bets.
10. Laser Eye Surgery
LASIK or PRK — take your pick. I toy around with getting this myself occasionally; it's been about two decades since I've been able to roll out of bed and be able to, y'know, see immediately, and I would kind of like to experience that wondrous event again. My boyfriend got PRK a few years ago and he says it's one of the best investments he ever made.
11. Shoes
Would you rather shell out $30 for a cheap pair of boots that hurt your feet and won't last longer than a year? Or $200 for a pair of boots that are incredibly comfortable and will last you until the end of time? I know which one I would pick.
12. A Good Towel
Now that's a hoopy frood who really knows where his or her towel is.
13. An Awesome Trip
They say that spending your money on experiences makes you happier than spending it on things. Travel is the ultimate experience, so… you do the math.
14. A Bike Helmet
Your head is priceless.
15. This:
Ayyyyy-men. You'll learn new things, you'll expand your horizons, you'll have a lot of fun, and you'll never be bored. Another one that isn't necessarily expensive (heck, get a library card and it's free!), but so, so worth it.
Images: Trading Academy via ota_photos/Flickr; Giphy (4)
