6 Frugal Ways To Treat Yourself in a High Tariff Economy
Written by
Jordan Rosenfeld
Edited by
Molly Sullivan
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If it seems like just the idea of tariffs is wreaking havoc on the price of goods and services these days, you’re not wrong. Some companies are no longer waiting around to learn if and when things will get more expensive, they’re just passing on price hikes to consumers.
If you’re finding you have to cut back on not just luxuries but treats that you used to feel good about spending on, don’t fear. Here are six frugal ways to treat yourself even in a high tariff economy.
Buy an Occasional ‘Luxury’ Grocery Item
Maybe you’ve had to give up French cheese, Italian wine and Mexican chocolate on the regular, but that doesn’t mean you can’t ever buy any of these delicious items. Pick one to purchase a couple times a month and maybe pair it with a movie night at home or a date night to give it a special feeling.
DIY Spa Day at Home
You might not be able to pay for a spa day out at an establishment, but you can recreate the experience of essential-oil infused bath salts, a bubble bath, a mud mask and other spa-worthy treats for much less. Visit the local Dollar Tree, Costco or other low-cost leader for a relaxing spa-cation at home.
Indulge in Gourmet Coffee at Home
You might miss your favorite fancy barista-crafted coffee because the price tag is too high, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying it. With a Costco or Sam’s Club membership, you can save money on bulk bags of gourmet coffee beans, some tasty syrups and a small milk frother to enjoy café-style drinks that will pay for themselves in just a few drinks.
Stream a New Release for a Movie Night
Did you miss the latest big hit in theaters? No matter, you probably saved yourself quite a lot of money on tickets, overpriced popcorn and soda. Instead, make it a movie night in with streaming, some microwave popcorn and your favorite beverage purchased at a discount elsewhere. You won’t have to deal with crowds or loud talkers (at least these ones you can send to their rooms).
Shop the Clearance Section Strategically
Whether your former treat was something to eat or drink, or a new item for your home, kitchen or wardrobe, look to treat yourself with markdown finds from stores like TJ Maxx, Walmart or anywhere you normally shop. Clearance sections often have great items that are just being seasonally weeded out.
Plant Succulent Babies
If you love plants but don’t have much money to spend at the local garden center, buy one big sedum succulent, whose limbs easily snap off to create new plants. You don’t even need fancy planters — stick them anywhere you’ve got decent soil, and a drought resilient garden will quickly unfurl.
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