We LOVE Deals, But Here’s Why We Love Splurging Too!
Welcome to the guilt-free splurge zone!
Since you’re reading this post on a money saving website, I’m going to make an assumption: You LOVE scoring great deals as much as we do. Still, as thrilling as a deal can be, there are times when splurging is okay. In fact, it’s actually necessary!
Finance experts and social psychologists suggest that splurges play a key role in achieving financial happiness because of the joy they invoke, thus leading to better relationships with our money.
What’s more, there are certain instances where it’s actually smart to splurge. Whether it’s making memories, investing in yourself or career, or even buying in bulk, the extra money spent pays off in the long run. With all splurges though, it’s important to give them a significant amount of thought to avoid regret later on.
The Hip2Save team, even in our deep-rooted money-saving ways, has plenty of experience in splurging as well. Read on for some of our team member’s honest accounts of what we splurge on and why we have no regrets.
“Since I photograph tutorials and use my hands constantly, I get my nails done as a splurge at a salon. I go with a powder gel color that lasts 2-3 weeks. It helps me not to have to slow down and deal with my nails when I work, and as a bonus, it also makes me feel great in general. What’s more, it gives me an hour to sit alone and do nothing ❤!” — Lina
“My Tumi Backpack! It took months for me to buy it as I literally have never spent this much money on an accessory, but it was WORTH every penny and here’s why — It’s high quality… I mean seriously, I am rough on bags and it does not show any wear & tear! The material is easy to clean if I DO get anything on it. It’s pretty and classic, so I’ll never get tired of it (gold & black)! I won’t have to buy another backpack for like… ever!
Also, it’s great for everyday life AND for traveling. It fits all my day-to-day essentials (and more) perfectly! I can travel to Starbucks and work on the days I want to get out of the house with ease. My ONLY regret is that I didn’t get the navy one because hello, NAVY 😍!
PS — It makes me feel good… anything that makes my life easier these days is a WIN!” — Amber R.
Hip Tip: Clever packing tips that will make you feel like a champion traveler.
“I love, love, love my Whynter Ice Cream Maker! It definitely wasn’t a budget-friendly purchase, but it was well worth the splurge. I’m happy to say it’s a kitchen appliance in our household that does NOT collect dust. It makes the best and creamiest ice cream ever! And I love the fact that NO salt or ice is required. It’s seriously so easy to use. Another perk — you’ll have homemade ice cream in UNDER 1 hour. For real. I also love that I can make oh so yummy low carb ice cream by using a sugar alternative.” — Collin
“My favorite splurge for myself was grabbing these sunglasses from a surf shop while on vacation last year. They were full price at $50. That’s not a huge splurge, but I normally only buy $5 or $10 sunglasses. I think they have actually saved me money in the long run as I am more careful not to lose them, and they have held up way better than the cheaper ones I have bought in the past. Also, I am pretty sure they are better for my eyes!” — Amber S.
Hip Tip: Accessories that look just like designer brands, without the hefty price tag!
“My favorite splurge has been my adorable, fun Fiat 500e electric car. While there have been a few, unique learning curves to owning an electric vehicle, there’s nothing like it. My Fiat’s quickly become the favorite of the drivers in my house, ages 17-49. Everyone drives Lil’ Blue to save money, reduce maintenance, and live greener. It’s also literally is the quietest car you’ll ever drive. Plus it fits in almost any space – perfect if you’re trying to find parking. When I first bought it, people at work would ask to ride in it just to listen to….well, nothing… And the added benefit? I spend no money on gas or oil changes, and I talked the Craigslist seller down to less than $10k for a car that was worth $35k new – and this had only 10,000 miles on it.” — Jamie
“I splurge on my workouts — I LOVE Orange Theory but it is super spendy at around $140+ per month! However, it is totally worth it in my opinion! In just an hour, I get a super high-intensity workout with absolutely no distractions! And the best part – I don’t have to think at all – I can just zone out, listen to the coach tell me what to do next and burn some crazy calories! Can you tell I am just a little obsessed?!” — Bryn
“It took me forever to try a meal kit because it, for sure, is not a frugal concept. But at the end of the day when I’m exhausted and I can just pull out that meal kit and make a meal without any planning, I am thankful for every cent I spent. I’d likely spend the same amount on takeout, but this is a much healthier option.” — Michelle
Hip Tip: We tried 3 different meal prep kits — here’s what we thought!
“I just splurged big for my birthday this week. I have never bought myself a real piece of jewelry and I wanted to spend money on something that I could keep. I bought this vintage 1880 rose gold pearl and sleeping beauty turquoise ring. I was so excited to buy something so unique. Plus, I talked him down from $275 to $230 so I felt like it was a deal as well!” — Jami
“I LOVE a good bargain, but I totally don’t mind splurging on good skin care and makeup items! My latest SO-WORTH-IT splurges: Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation, Urban Decay Naked Skin Concealer, Anastasia Dipbrow Pomade, and Juice Beauty’s Hydrating Mist. These work magic on my oily skin ✨ and my eyebrows have never looked better!” — Andrea
Hip Tip: How do drugstore beauty brands stack up against luxury makeup products?
“I’m embarrassed to say what mine is… but I have a maid. She does all my deep cleaning, toilets, three bathrooms, huge kitchen floor, dining floor — basically all the big icky stuff I don’t want to do. And I would never give her up. I would CRY forever if she quit.” — Jennifer
As for my most valued splurge? Laser Eye Correction surgery, no question. It was definitely expensive and it’s not really something I could ever get a “deal” on, though I did get 15% off because of my insurance. I also opted for the all-laser treatment which is about $800 more than the standard procedure. BUT it completely changed my life to have clear vision from the moment I open my eyes in the morning until I close them at night — all without having to fuss with glasses or contacts throughout the day!
What’s your favorite splurge?
Let me know in the comments!
Absolutely love this post! Thanks so much for sharing. I totally splurge on new Frye boots (every year…lol). I used to buy the $20 boots at Kohls during their BF sale, but they would get scuffed or worn out easily. So I had to replace them more often. My Frye boots are genuine leather and last for years. I always wait until Nordstrom Rack has them clearanced and never pay more than $150 per pair. Besides, nothing smell better than leather š
FYI: Frye has their own store on Amazon and you can score a pretty sweet deal on it if you keep checking throughout the year! And go through snares to get more back š
Snares is supposed to be Ebates. Who doesnāt love autocorrect?
I splurge on Frye boots too! Every holiday season they have an online sale I take advantage of. I still have a pair from 15 years ago that looks like new.
What a fun splurge, Vanessa!
Frye boots are my splurge too. I have two pairs going strong! I wear them constantly and they still look amazing.
What a great post!! I love how what is a splurge for one person might not be for someone else. Nonetheless, it is still a splurge!! šš»
Good Ones!! lesson learnt “that i need to spend something on myself” which i never did. YOur savings are amazing and this one is really good. It made me think after reading this post.
Be sure to come back and let us know what you decided to treat yourself to! <3
My Dooney and Bourke Mary Poppins crossbody wallet is my favorite splurge. I adore the pattern and I use it as my purse when I run errands, but throw it into my backpack when I got to work every day. It’s also great to bring while touring Disney World! It was worth every penny I spent on it!!
Great post! #konmari cleaning has changed my life. I try to only buy things I love and bring ājoyā. So Iāve minimized my shopping (saving money) allowing me to splurge on things I love š
Wow jamie you win the day- er year with your splurge on the fiat 500 please update us on this deal how you talked him down. This is truly fabulous! way to save on gas AND oil !!! i loved reading this post; )
I agree! Haggle tips pls & what year is your fiat?
I subscribed to the Graze box. It’s not a huge expense but being a stay at home mom I have a hard time spending money on something just for me. But I love getting it in the mail and it makes me feel special because it’s just for me and I don’t share!
I think my splurge is buying a lot of clothes, shoes and jewelry but still at great prices. I shop Walmart.com A LOT. If I see a price drop on an item I bought within the past 45 days, I contact Customer Service over chat and get a price adjustment. If something doesn’t fit or looked better online than on me, returns via mail are free and so easy to do. In my opinion, it is easier than returning in the store. I love the maid splurge above. My boyfriend asked me not too long ago if he can get me a maid and I said no. I feel silly paying for something that I can do myself. But it would be really nice and would free me up to do other things. Now I’m reconsidering……LOL.
I splurge in buying clothes, shoes, jewelry that I like at great prices also. I love shopping at TJmaxx, Marshalls and Ross and check TJMaxx.com every day (no joke) . Thank you for this fun post š hip2save.
If it makes you feel any better, maids arenāt all theyāre cracked up to be if you keep a fairly picked up house anyway. We tried 3 different companies when my husband and I worked full time and really long hours… Sheās lucked out if she gets the deep clean because I always found myself pretty disappointed when I came home – it often felt like the bare minimum was done (like, they arenāt going to lift up the picture frames when they dust, they focus on silly stuff like emptying the dishwasher, etc.) Not to mention that Iād have to run around and pick up everything before the maid came to make sure she didnāt spend an inordinate amount of time doing that instead of actual cleaning. A couple of my friends had similar experiences, so it just wasnāt worth the cost or hassle of having strangers in my home.
I felt this was when I went to my brother in laws house and they had a maid service come in weekly. They spent about 2-3 hours doing like the very basic things like vaccuming and mopping and their house was pretty clean to start with, and I was never impressed after they left.
I agree. I had a cleaning service for my entire married life–15 years. I finally got tired of it, got a Roomba and have not looked back. I actually enjoy cleaning. I am a stay at home Mom so I have time to do it, which some might not, but I would spend 3 hours just getting ready for her! Then I would have to leave the house so she could clean, which was annoying since I never knew when she was coming or leaving. I did not realize how much stress it was until I called it quits.
Yes Bryn!!!! Iām with you on the otf membership!
Because itās a splurge Iām more likely to go and use all my monthly visits! Plus I love the workout!
Yay, Ashley! I love meeting fellow OTF members! Glad to hear you love it as much as I do! š
I have a weakness for Pendleton Blankets. I was never able to justify tge expense until a couple years ago. I was given birthday money in July, November I was still holding on to it waiting for the perfect item that was a total want and not a need. It was my first Pendleton blanket. They are so warm, the designs are cool, and unique. They will last for generations. We started using them as wall hangings.
I agree about splurging on the high quality make-up and skin care!
That’s where I splurge too! š
I almost bought the Dyson hairdryer last week when Nordstrom Rack had it on sale for $249.00 regularly $399. I normally just go for it on something that is quality and a great price but I just couldn’t do it. Now, I think about it daily and kinda regret not buying it. I didn’t know if I would love it THAT much more.
Kim, be sure to check their site this weekend. They might just have a Clear the Rack (extra 25% off) sale for the holiday weekend. Hopefully the hairdryer will cost even less then. HTH
Don’t regret it! I bought the Dyson but returned it. It is sooooo heavy and that long industrial cord is hard to manage. Also, it is not a better dryer. I have a $130-ish dryer and it is so, so much better. Let go of the regret! š
I agree with the laser eye correction!
I agree with the laser eye surgery. I used to spend a fortune on glasses and contacts. The surgery totally paid for itself.
These splurges aren’t bad at all. I was expecting to see items that went up to $1,000 (with the exception of the car). Now I’m tempted to splurge on a new iPod that I’ve wanted for years now. The iPod Shuffle that I’ve had for about 8 years now can’t hold any more music or most of the podcasts that I like to listen to, so i think it’s time to upgrade. And I saw it on sale yesterday š
Mine are also sunglasses, but Oakleys. At almost $100-120 for a pair Iāve only ever owned 3, and theyāve all lasted me 10+ years; my oldest pair was a wedding gift for myself (husband got a pair too) and we both still have/wear them 15 years later. Iāve been needing a new one because my latest are all scratched up, but I just can bring myself to go cheap…
I can understand that! And just think, as well as they have held up, you may have saved quite a bit of money spending a little more all at once versus grabbing a new cheap pair each year that can break or scratch much easier!
My step mom got me a Fossil wallet over 7 years ago. Still looks new with just a few tiny markings. Will be purchasing a new one when the time comes.
It’s all about balance! We splurged on our Vitamix. One of the best investments ever!
My large size Kindle HDX is my most used splurge. It was $400 at the time (several years ago) but I use it almost every single day, especially for Netflix and Amazon Prime video.
That’s such a great splurge, Josie! Thank you for sharing that with us!
My favorite, guilt-free splurge has been an instant pot, Kitchen aid and my training shoes! Also, I feel it is worthwhile to splurge on a high quality sports bra, depending on your bra size and fitness level.
I love estee lauder foundation, too! I would buy it at regular price, but discovered that ulta carries it and I can use the 20% prestige brands coupon they have a couple times a year. Score!
I really enjoy posts like this…thank you for sharing your splurges. I was literally just thinking yesterday that even frugal people deserve to splurge on something they really want. For me, it was an angel wing necklace that was about $200 or $300 at Kohls. I had been eyeing it for a while because it made me think of my mom. Wouldn’t you know it? On the anniversary of her death, the necklace was on sale, I got a 40% off mystery discount code, and I had a gift card to use toward the purchase. It was still a splurge due to my tight budget but I got it anyway because it felt like a heavenly gift. š
I love this story š¼
I LOVE this! Thank you for sharing your story, dealzgurl! That was an awesome and really special buy!
So cool…enjoy your beautiful necklace: )
Thank you! The necklace makes me smile every time I look at it or wear it. I would never have known about the Kohl’s mystery discount though without Hip2Save. I’ve saved soooo much money with this site and gotten to try so many new things.
My biggest splurge was on a macbook laptop when my first laptop (lasted 6 years) stopped working right as I started grad school. Previously I never imagined that I’d spend that much on a laptop. Also, I’d love to see a post on laser eye surgery and hear some real stories.
I recently splurged on a new MacBook Pro too! It was a pretty crazy amount but for something I’ll use every day for the next several years, it’s well worth it š
I’ll pass that suggestion for a laser eye surgery post along to the team as well!
Same here, a MacBook Pro that I use everyday. I am very very happy with it.
I got lasik 2 years ago, best $5k I have ever spent! It was so expensive because my eyes were at a -10 prescription in contacts, for those of you without eye problems, that means I was pretty much blind at 28, like, if I did not have contacts on I couldn’t even see your facial features if you were standing right in front of me. I had a few issues and even had to have a second surgery to find tweak it, and I suffer from a bit of dry eye now, but being able to wake up and see clearly was something i hadn’t been able to do for 20 years, I’d do it again in a heartbeat
I’m glad it worked out! Do you find that you can read books/stuff online fine now? Do you need to use glasses still at times or is your vision blurry at all anymore? and how did you decide where to have it done?
I had lasik about 15 years ago and it corrected my vision to 20/21. To this day I still see fine without any glasses. My only regret is I didn’t get it done sooner.
That is so encouraging! Thank you for taking the time to reply.
I have the same regret, Jodi šI’m so happy with the results from my surgery too (though I just had mine done last year). Glad to hear you had a great experience!
Hi Nicole, so glad to hear that the surgery was beneficial for you too! It’s a wonderful feeling to wake up and immediately have clear vision ā especially after so many years without it!
Hi Nicole! Did you have dry eye beforehand? Nobody wants to touch my eyes because Iām at a -8.5 and already have dry eyes. They said Iām at s high risk for permanent milky vision and extreme dry eye. Or blindness. Did you see a lot of people? Iāve been pretty blind without contacts since I was about 12. Itās my dream to be able to wake up in the morning and see. TIA!
My splurge is…Briggs and Riley luggage. I bought it a few years ago based on Consumer Report’s high rating, and I LOVE it! Yes, I spent nearly $1,400 on 2 checked bags and a matching carry-on, but I can’t beat the lifetime warranty! š
So glad to hear someone else splurged on “luggage”. I always thought I was crazy for my TUMI purchase! LOVE IT!
Mine is coloring my hair at a salon. It would be cheaper for me to buy the box at the store but I’d rather not. I like going and love my stylist!
My Mother In Law has the same splurge! She LOVES heading in to the salon for some fresh color. She even has a certain stylist she goes to for each appointment!
Not sure if it’s considered a real splurge because it’s not an item or object Lol. But I love to splurge on vacations!!!. We book a trip at an expensive resort around twice a year, sometimes three. It’s nice not to have to worry about deals or doing anything for yourself during those trips. Like fixing your own meals, finding transportation, etc. Getting something that is pretty much all inclusive or close to it, is a great splurge feeling š . If they by any chance have a rewards program, private ones normally don’t, then you can build up points when you stay for future vacays!. I love trying different resorts, although I have went back to the same one a couple times because we loved it so much. I might be weird but I’m not into materialistic stuff at All Lol.
I think this is a great splurge, Angela-Miles! Vacations are SO important to take too!
I splurge on my yoga membership!! Itās seriously the best thing Iāve ever done. They have childcare too! I spend about $100 a month but itās so worth it for my health and my sanity š
I don’t splurge on a whole lot of little things, but my husband and I were talking recently about how nice it is to be able to get nicer hotels with amenities now when we travel, instead of the cheapest possible….which we did for many, many years lol. We also eat out once a week and have a favorite local place that’s a little pricey that we treat ourselves to at least once a month…. sometimes once a week lol. So things like that. Although my husband does splurge on shoes, not my thing. I would totally spend the money for Lasik if I could though! I’ve had other eye problems and laser surgery for that in the past so I now have scar tissue and not a candidate.
Why be embarrassed you have a house cleaner?!?!? I work only part time, and everyone in my family is capable but I’m never ashamed to let people know I hire a couple awesome ladies to do the work I hate doing! Lol
Some things are worth the extra money they cost us and for me house cleaners is one of them. I would cut so many other things from my budget first if I had to Lol! But don’t be embarrassed, please! š
Yes, Iāve already told my friends and family that Iāll be getting a maid when I move to a new apartment and a job making more money. Iāve never been a fan of cleaning and Iām not embarrassed to say that I want a MAID!!!!
I loved reading this post <3! I splurged on getting my top 6 teeth crowned. It was the absolute best investment in my self confidence because now lm not embarrassed to smile or to pose for photos l only wish l would've done it 20 years ago
My splurge is my thrifting habit. We literally need nothing but I probably spend $10-$15/week on clothes for me and the kids, childrens books, and random kitchen/decor items. I am always giving things to charity also, so Iām not a hoarder… I just like a constant flow of new/interesting things in my life and thrifting really relaxes me. I know it would save us $$ if I didnāt thrift at all but… š¤·š¼āāļøšøš.
I so love this and kind of do it too!
My husband loves Tumi! In fact, that what he gave to his employees for Christmas. Itās expensive but itās worth every penny.
I save up and budget for splurges so I feel like they sre that much more rewarding! I splurged on ugg duck boots in the winter and now I just bought some cute designer glasses because I wear glasses 90% of the time and I feel like the cost per wear evens out lol. Plus it feels good to wear prada daily haha.
My splurge is my German Shepherd puppy, Dallas. We have five young kids, a small house, a small yard, and tiny budget, but she is so worth it. She brings such fun to our lives. I’ve wanted her for years and years. š
Awww…what a sweet splurge, Kathryn! Puppies are THE BEST! So glad to hear she has added so much fun to your family’s life!
We have a German Shepherd that just turned 8 last week. He is precious! Wouldnāt have any other kind of pup, Iām hoping to get another soonš
“Splurge” is a completely relative term…not only does everyone have different priorities and goals when it comes to finances, but sometimes you have to spend more on something as an investment. So I don’t consider my Instant Pot a splurge since it serves a utilitarian purpose in my home and I got it at a great discount. But I do consider my KitchenAid stand mixer and my Shun Chef’s knife ($120) a splurge since I could’ve easily bought a cheaper alternative, but these products are pretty much the best of their kind in the market. I also “splurge” on high-end/luxury makeup (drugstore cosmetics are full of fillers instead of pigment, and I never pay retail price for high-end makeup anyway) and clothing/shoes when it’s something that I know will pay for itself.
Love dealzgurl’s post !!!
I agree! It’s a great story and splurge!
I save on groceries at Aldi, but I splurge on designer purses and my cleaning lady.
Good for you, Christina! So run to hear about everyone’s splurges!
Designer jeans. My friends and family make fun of me for being so frugal with everything else and then dropping hundreds like itās nothing for a pair of jeans but itās my guilty pleasure. Plus they fit better and last much longer.
I splurge on vacations and nice hotels..
Just got back from visiting my brother in Las Vegas..
Same here. I will spend $$$ on a nice hotel and vacation because the experience and memories are so worth it.
My lululemon leggings.. I dont buy them often and 100 gir a pair of leggings but they are amazing.. I go to the gym 5 days a week so I am rough on my leggings. But they wash up be as dutiful and dont fade..its worth every penny
I never was a big jewelry person. I loved wearing my wedding rings, but not much more. Then I had a daughter, and I bought a (small) diamond band to go with my wedding rings. It was around thanksgiving, so I still got a deal. I love the reminder on my finger! Now I’m pregnant with my second girl and deciding what to get as a momento. Ever since my first was born, I have bought her a piece of nice jewelry, and will do the same for #2. I get it around the holidays when there are sales galore… not too crazy, but real stuff. It’s all tucked away until they’re old enough to appreciate it. š
My favorite splurge is this Henri Bendel bag: https://www.henribendel.com/us/jetsetter-convertible-nylon-backpack-jetsetter_backpack.html?dwvar_jetsetter__backpack_web=-&dwvar_jetsetter__backpack_size=-&dwvar_jetsetter__backpack_color=001&cgid=shop_handbags_messenger_backpack#srule=price-low-to-high&sz=12&start=17
It’s similar to the Tumi bag, but it’s a “convertible” bag which means it can also function as a hand carry purse, a cross body bag, or a backpack. The black nylon stays clean forever. It’s the perfect size, and I love having the different carry options on vacations. Also, I found it for less on eBay.
Chaco sandals are my favorite , would like to have one of each color , I had knee surgery and those are confortable, now Iām thinking of getting me some nice sun glasses – thank you for the post ,
I agree Chacos are worth it! REI Garage will usually have some on sale too. But I’ve noticed as I’ve gotten older my knees and legs would hurt after wearing flip flops for a long time or I’d have to wear tennis shoes if we were going somewhere with a lot of walking. But now I wear my Chaco sandals in place of flip flops and even wore them to the zoo and no more pains!
Does anyone have a target splurge suggestion? Thanks
I splurge on smart watches. I love all the things you are able to do with them. They also help keep me motivated to exercise. I have two and will be saving up for number three!š
We splurge on our family vacation each year. We cruise, we’re a family of six, and yes, it costs a lot. However, the kids are getting older, one has already moved out, so we don’t know how much longer we’ll all be vacationing together so we do it while we can!
6 years ago I needed to upgrade from used cars to finally getting something brand new. Tired of breaking down everywhere. I decided to lease and that was when I started couponing. For one month every coupon I used, I still put the money to the side until I reached my potential monthly payment (I wanted to make sure I could afford the lease). When I saw I could do it, plus extra for gas and insurance, I jumped. And now with hip2save couponing has become gospel and I do this with every pricey purchase in my house. Need a deep freezer? Only if I couponed enough or collected money into paypal through Ibotta. Upgrade to refurbished Iphone X through Amazon? Pinecone, Saving Star, Checkout 51, Ebates and Ibotta gift cards. Keeps me out of spending extra on my paycheck and I still have fun shopping for expensive items. The only thing I pay full price for is meat when I don’t plan ahead (gotta save Catalinas for that). So I guess for me the splurge is the time and patience I spend doing the research to do all of the above. The planning takes hours but sooo worth it.
my splurge with my second born was a jujube diaper bag. they are machine washable with light colored interior so its easy to find items. they make a backpack like the tomi but only half the price. they are versatile so they work great for anything not just as a diaper bag.
My big one is vacations – I love cruising. I look for good deals, but it is still certainly an extra. I am also currently splurging on dance lessons. Hoping it will be a lifelong skill. A material splurge was Merrell waterproof shoes. Man, they are nice. I also wear Chacos, like someone mentioned above, but I got a great price on Hip2Save like four years ago and they are still going strong.