I Asked ChatGPT Which Holiday Splurges Are Worth It — Here’s What It Said

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The holiday season is in full swing, and while it’s a magical time to spend with loved ones, it’s not cheap. According to the 2025 Deloitte Holiday Retail Survey, average consumers are expected to spend $1,595 this season, which can cause a serious financial setback. But let’s be real. The holidays are also a time to score great deals and splurge a little. However, not everything that pops up on your feed is worthy of your money.

To help differentiate the worthwhile luxuries from the impulse buys you’ll later regret, GOBankingRates asked ChatGPT for insight. Here’s what the artificial intelligence (AI) tool said is worth shelling out your hard-earned money on this holiday season.

Upgrading to High-Quality Ingredients

As grocery prices continue to soar, many are scaling back, but if you’re baking or cooking during the holidays and want to impress guests or treat yourself, premium ingredients are a nice way to indulge.

ChatGPT recommended items like real vanilla extract, European butter, quality chocolate or better cuts of seafood to upgrade a holiday meal or a batch of sweet treats.

A Fresh Christmas Tree

Artificial trees have their place — they’re easy to set up, there’s no messy cleanup and, of course, they’re cost-effective. But if you want to go big this year, ChatGPT suggested a real tree.

“Yes, it costs more — but the scent, look, and tradition make the whole season feel more magical,” it said.

Another bonus is that a real tree is biodegradable and can be recycled into mulch. Plus, it supports local tree farms.

Cozy, Durable Winter Bedding

There’s nothing better in the winter than snuggling up in good bedding and having a movie night or bingeing your favorite show. It’s a cozy feeling, but nice bedding is pricey. However, ChatGPT stated that the extra price can be viewed as an “investment in the season.”

Buying “flannel sheets, a down comforter, or a weighted blanket pays off all winter long, not just in December,” ChatGPT said.

A Memorable Holiday Experience

Creating long-lasting memories and holiday adventures isn’t always budget-friendly, but shared experiences are often more exciting and meaningful than a gift under the tree.

Instead of buying more stuff, ChatGPT suggested the following: 

• Tickets to a show
• A weekend getaway
• A holiday lights event
• A cooking class.

A Good Bottle of Wine or Bubbly

Pairing a nice wine with your holiday meal can make the moment feel more special and festive, but good wine or bubbly isn’t always in the budget.

But according to ChatGPT, spending a little extra on a bottle that goes well with your event is a lovely treat. However, it also noted that “you don’t have to go top-shelf.”

A Self-Care Gift That Improves Everyday Life

Self-care isn’t always at the top of our priorities, but small things to improve daily life can boost comfort and make hectic days more manageable. ChatGPT suggested things like noise-canceling headphones, a cozy robe, high-quality slippers or a planner you’ll use all next year as holiday splurges worth spending money on.

The holidays are a time to enjoy, and a splurge doesn’t have to blow your budget. With careful planning and strategic shopping, the right upgrade can bring value and joy without the financial woes that often come in January.

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