What, to you, is just a complete waste of money?

[Colo Springs E]

Another thread (about $300 sunglasses) got me thinking... there's usually something that somebody will spend a TON of money on, that others think is ridiculous.

For me, it's the $25,000 (or whatever) wedding. Really? I know it's a special event... well, it should be, but of course we know half end in divorce. But seriously, $25k, $35k or more?? For something that lasts a few hours? And it's one thing if you're a millionaire or something, but I know a lot of definitely 'middle-income' people who have dropped some serious coin on a wedding.

I find that ridiculous. That's just me.

On the other hand, I'll spend money on something that, after I examine it, seems pretty ridiculous. My wife and I used to eat out all the time, we're talking multiple times a week. Now we've gotten it down to 2-4 x per month or so.

But dropping $50 (or more) on a meal for two? Pretty dumb actually. I'll still do it occasionally nonetheless--we enjoy it. I guess from that perspective, maybe it's not a waste of money. Maybe if you look at going out to eat as a 'mini-vacation' for a couple of hours... then, is it money well spent?

[Jupiter]

IMHO, right?

[trev333]

some of the outlandishly expensive fireworks shows for civic events.....

places trying to out do each other with firework shows.. mhea..

up in smoke.... awwww ain't it purdy...;)

[tpaul]

I agree about the $300 sunglasses and the $25,000 weddings. Also the $5,000 guitars and frequent dinners out. I'd add to that list bunch of things I find to be a complete waste of money (and usually time, attention and space): cable TV, new cars, mcmansions, designer clothes, $350 haircuts, giant SUVs. Also effects pedals and bottles of wine that cost more than $200. Most family vacations would also fall into this category, except they seem to please my wife, so I guess that's worth at least a portion of the time and expense.

Bah, Humbug! OK, your turn.

[Toriginal]

Buying beverages when you go out to eat especially if you're just looking for a quick quality meal. POP/soda can cost over 6 bucks and coffee is definitely a known way they get you on breakfast costs. Beware the $3.99 breakfast, It can easily go over $20 for two. Order water...Have a coffee when you get home if that is your thing. That of course depends on the restaurent.

[Togman]

Designer clothes.
Renting anything (Car, TV, House etc.)

[telequacktastic]

Huge TV's and super cable packages with 1,000+ channels. Heck, anything I can't afford really... haha

[Boyd]

Originally Posted by Colo Springs E

For me, it's the $25,000 (or whatever) wedding.

I sure wish my daughter agreed with you. But some things are just no-win arguments. Would have much rather given them the money as a "nest egg". But they have a great marriage and a beautiful daughter, so I can't complain too much.

[Kirchensfan]

Jewelery. Money invested in precious metals and fine gems, stored properly, makes sense as a fairly safe hedge against inflation, but to wear thousands of dollars out and about just for show is idiotic, and cheap bling can look shabby chic.

[jkingma]

Exercise equipment.

Just go for a good long brisk walk.

[DesmoDog]

I've got a mechanical background, I can see appreciating thing just because of the intricacies of this that and the other thing. But I just do not see the fascination with expensive watches.

Then again, I don't own ANY watches so maybe I'm biased.

[The String King]

Modern cars, expensive clothes, fast food, make up, hair cuts, and anything made by Silverline tools.

[The String King]

Originally Posted by DesmoDog

I've got a mechanical background, I can see appreciating thing just because of the intricacies of this that and the other thing. But I just do not see the fascination with expensive watches.

Then again, I don't own ANY watches so maybe I'm biased.

I'm with you here. A guy I know, (tax accountant), has a watch that is appreciating in value.

SO WHY IS IT ON HIS WRIST?

Surely investments should be in the bank? But then again I am skint so what do I know

[joelstrummer]

First thing I thought of when I read the thread title was weddings. And it's a particular personal and painful topic for me (my girlfriend and I will likely be tying the knot in the next 1-2 years... literally, poor me! )

[brookdalebill]

For me, shampoo!

[Mjark]

Gambling seems much like lighting money on fire and throwing it out the car window.

[SacDAve]

Bottled water total waste of money. I will also agree with expensive sunglasses except MAUI JIM"S but that's only if there bought in Maui. I guess I should add most tools from Stew-mac.

[Mike Bruce]

Ditto on gambling.

Smoking. Stupidest waste of money and life ever devised.

An old friend was still paying off his wedding when his divorce came through. Dumb.

[Jamie Black]

There are many things I see as a waste of money but frequently eating out is a huge waste of money IMHO. My ex-girlfriend and I would go out to eat a few times a week and the tab was always around $60. When you add it up and realize you're spending over $700 a month with zero to show for it you feel a little dumb.

Lavish vacations and golf are on my list as well. Last year someone wanted me to split the gas to drive 375 miles and play a $75 round of golf . I passed on that one.

I do own a $170 pair of sunglasses but I take very good care of them and they look just as new as the day I bought them 5 years ago.

[sneakyjapan]

pachinko.