12 Overpriced Items That People Keep Buying Anyway
We’re all guilty of it: Splurging on indulgences we can’t resist, even when we know they’re wildly overpriced. Whether it’s a $7 latte, a designer T-shirt, or a luxury candle, some items just seem to have a magnetic pull — despite price tags that feel more like highway robbery than fair value. But why do we keep buying them, even when cheaper alternatives exist? Here are 12 overpriced items people can’t seem to quit, plus tips on how to save and maximize your hard-earned cash.
1. College Textbooks
College textbooks are notoriously overpriced, with prices soaring into the hundreds for a single book. To make matters worse, publishers frequently release new editions with minor changes or edits, rendering older versions obsolete — and professors will often require students to buy the latest editions. To avoid falling for this scam, check out sites like Amazon Textbooks, Chegg, or OpenStax where you can rent textbooks and outlines, buy used copies, or use digital versions for free or for a small fee.
2. Coffee at High-End Chains
Sure, an overpriced latte might taste great, but the markup on coffee (and beverages in general) is astronomical. When it comes to high-end coffee shops, you’re also paying for the brand and ambiance, not just the caffeine. Instead, brew your own java at home to save yourself hundreds of dollars a year.
3. Overpriced Candles
Luxury candles can run you $50 or more for a few days of burn time. While they may smell heavenly in their chic packaging, you’re mostly just paying for the brand name. For a similar cozy vibe without the hefty price tag, opt for budget-friendly candles from stores like IKEA, or invest in an essential oil diffuser that lets you customize scents without breaking the bank.
4. Bottled Water
Bottled water, especially from name brands, is often just tap water with a fancy label. The markup is insane when you consider you can get the same thing for free from your sink. Instead, consider investing in a reusable water bottle (opt for metal or glass to avoid plastic leaching) and a filter for an unlimited supply of water. Your wallet — and the planet — will thank you.
5. Movie Theater Popcorn
A bucket of popcorn at the movies can now cost as much as a full meal elsewhere. The markup on concessions is how theaters make the bulk of their money (85% to be exact), with popcorn being one of the biggest profit drivers. To avoid the sticker shock, sneak in your own snacks (just don’t get caught!) or wait to munch to your heart’s content once you get back home.
6. Brand-Name Medications
Though brand-name medications are often identical to their generic counterparts (they must have the same active ingredients), they usually come with steeper price tags. To avoid paying more for the exact same thing, always ask your pharmacist if a generic option is available.
7. Smartphone Accessories
Cables, chargers, and cases from phone manufacturers tend to be wildly overpriced. But in reality, third-party accessories work just as well — and often come with the same warranties — for a fraction of the price. When it comes to things like chargers that are easily lost or need frequent replacing, don’t fall for the brand-name hype. Your phone won’t know the difference, but your wallet certainly will.
8. Gym Memberships
While New Years’ resolutions are full of good intentions, many people end up signing up for gym memberships they rarely use. If you’re not hitting the gym at least a few times a week, it’s time to stop wasting money on a membership. Consider cheaper (or even free) alternatives like home workout apps, fitness channels on YouTube, and outdoor activities like jogging or biking. Not only will you save money, but you might also find a routine you actually enjoy without having to spend any money.
9. Designer Clothes
A plain T-shirt with a luxury logo can cost hundreds of dollars. But usually, this means you’re paying for the designer label, not the quality. That $300 brand-name tee? It’s likely made from the same cotton as a $20 shirt from Target. Unless you’re absolutely set on flaunting that Gucci logo, opt for basic tees that look just as good (if not better) for a fraction of the price.
10. Airport Food
Airport food isn’t just disappointing (who hasn’t paid $15 for a soggy sandwich?) — it’s also notoriously overpriced. To avoid this wallet-draining scam, consider packing your own snacks or eating before you fly to avoid the sky-high prices.
11. Greeting Cards
A fancy greeting card can cost $5 or more for a piece of paper you’ll probably just end up throwing away. While the heartfelt messages are nice, you’re mostly paying for the glossy finish. Save money by making your own cards (bonus points for creativity!), opting for digital (e-cards), or buying them in bulk from discount stores like Dollar Tree or Walmart.
12. Concert Merchandise
Concert T-shirts and hoodies are usually marked up to absurd prices, sometimes costing $50 or more for a shirt that’s not much different from one you’d buy at a regular store. While it’s tempting to grab merch at the event, you’re mostly paying for the “I was there” factor. If you really want to snag a souvenir, wait for online sales or buy from third-party sellers after the event.