Things Where Boomers Were Frugal That Younger Generations Are Frivolous With
Boomers really knew how to stretch a dollar back in the day. Today, younger generations often spend more on the same things. The difference in things like fashion and food is huge. Read on to see 35 things boomers saved on that younger people overspend on.
The Home Brew Crew
Boomers didn’t go to fancy coffee shops to get their caffeine fix. They made their own coffee at home, usually from a can. No $7 lattes and no fancy caramel drizzle. Just a mug and maybe some cream. Younger generations spend big on their morning cup.
A Stitch in Time
Clothes weren’t as disposable for boomers as they are for today’s younger generation. If a button popped off your shirt or a seam ripped on your pants, you fixed it. Hand-me-downs were pretty normal, too. Fashion was way more about durability than trends, and boomers made things last.
Furniture That Lasted
Boomers loved heavy furniture that lasted decades. You might even find some of those older pieces still in their homes today. We’re talking oak tables, sturdy dressers, and hardy bed frames. They bought it once and kept it for life. Younger people buy cheap stuff that falls apart fast.
Road Tripping Fun
Vacations for boomers meant hopping in the car and driving somewhere affordable - think camping and visiting family. Resorts and luxury cruises? These were rare. Today, younger generations swipe credit cards for pricey getaways and think nothing of spending their month's rent on a holiday.
Wedding Bells (On a Budget)
Boomer weddings were simple compared to the fancy weddings of today. A small church, a family hall, or even a backyard hosted the big day. The food was homemade, and the costs were low. Now, weddings can drain tens of thousands on venues, décor, and dresses. Boomers kept it easy and cheap.
Modest Homes and Modest Décor
Back in the day, people bought homes they could afford and lived with the basics. Fancy furniture and designer kitchens weren't a priority. It was all about stability rather than style. Today it’s all about granite countertops, smart appliances, and endless renovations.
Drive It ‘Til It Dies
Boomers didn’t swap cars every few years. They kept their cars until the wheels practically fell off. Repairs were way cheaper than buying new. Younger generations, on the other hand, upgrade often and chase new tech and shiny models. Boomers squeezed every last mile from their cars.
The Free Outdoor Gym
Paying for the gym? This was practically unheard of for boomers! They walked, biked, did chores, or played sports outside. Fitness was simple and free. Today’s gym memberships and fitness classes eat into budgets. Boomers kept moving without paying a dime on monthly fees.
A Few Channels
Boomers had pretty limited TV options - maybe only a handful of channels. And that was enough. They didn’t pay for endless streaming services or premium cable. Families gathered to watch the same shows. Now, there’s Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more to choose from. And all those costs add up.
Dinner From Scratch
Eating out was rare for boomers. They cooked meals at home using simple ingredients. Fast food or restaurants were for special occasions. Younger generations are the complete opposite and grab takeout or eat out several times a week. The cost adds up fast, but boomers saved by cooking.
Less Bling = More Savings
Jewelry was a once-in-a-while kind of purchase for boomers. Engagement rings, wedding bands, or family heirlooms were enough. They didn’t splurge on trendy pieces. Now, the younger generations spend tons on constant upgrades and designer names. Boomers kept it simple and affordable.
Gadgets That Lasted
What happened to the good old days when electronics lasted for decades? Today, younger generations spend thousands on new gadgets that need to be upgraded every year or two. Boomers bought a radio, TV, or stereo and used it for years.
Ring, Don’t Ping
Phones for boomers meant landlines with rotary displays or simple push buttons - no apps, no upgrades, and no pricey contracts. Younger generations spend heavily on smartphones, cases, plans, and accessories. Boomers talked for pennies while we spend small fortunes staying connected today.
Cheap Seats, Same Fun
Even concert tickets were cheaper for boomers. They could see a huge band for just a few bucks... No VIP packages or insane fees. Now, younger people pay hundreds for one night of music while boomers rocked out without emptying their wallets.
Toys of Imagination
Boomer kids didn’t have shelves and shelves of expensive toys. They played outside, used their imagination, and had fun with simple games. Things like bikes, sticks, toy cars, and dolls were enough. Today’s kids have expensive electronics, video games, and collectibles, and still complain that they’re bored.
Simple Beauty Staples
Forget the expensive skincare essentials of today - boomers had only a few basics like soap, lotion, and maybe cold cream. No 20-step skincare routines, no pricey serums. Makeup was modest, too. Today, people splurge on countless products, treatments, and beauty trends.
College on a Dime
College tuition was far cheaper for boomers. They could pay as they went, with little or no debt following them around for years after they graduated. Younger generations face massive student loans and sky-high tuition fees today. Boomers got their education without the lifelong financial stress.
Fast Food as a Treat
Fast food was an occasional treat for boomers rather than a daily meal. A burger and fries were cheap and fun. Today, people grab fast food often, and the costs add up quickly. Boomers saved a ton of money by making fast food special instead of routine.
Free Radio Jams
Music was cheap and fun back in the day. Boomers listened to music on the radio or bought a few records. They had the soundtrack of their lives without a monthly bill. Now, younger people spend money on streaming subscriptions, downloads, and constant upgrades to headphones.
No Label Obsession
Boomers cared way less about designer brands than people do today. Clothes, shoes, and accessories didn’t need a logo to be good. It was all about quality. Younger generations often chase labels and trends, paying high prices. Boomers wore what worked and saved money.
Shoes That Stuck Around
Shoes weren’t disposable for boomers. If soles wore out, they got them repaired. A good pair lasted for years. Younger generations replace shoes constantly and chase fashion trends. And we all know how expensive that can turn out to be with style trends changing constantly.
Keep Insurance Simple
Boomers stuck to the basics with insurance. There was health, car, and home insurance. No extras or extended warranties. Today’s generation overspends on add-ons and coverage they don’t really need. Boomers saved by keeping it straightforward and only getting coverage that was worth it and necessary.
Budget-Friendly Nights Out
Boomers didn’t splurge on cocktails at fancy bars. Drinks were cheap, and house parties were way more common than going out for a night on the town. Younger generations today spend up to $15 per drink at trendy spots. Back in the day, nightlife was all about fun without draining your wallet.
Cash Over Credit
Boomers used credit very carefully, often preferring cash. Big debts and interest charges were avoided completely if possible. Younger generations rely heavily on credit cards and store accounts and pay for it with high interest. Boomers saved by spending only what they had.
Handmade Holidays
Holidays for boomers often meant homemade gifts, simple decorations, and less spending. Yes, it was still special, but they didn’t spend nearly as much as younger generations do. Today, people go big with store-bought décor, matching pajamas, and endless gifts.
Use It ‘Til It Wears Out
Boomers didn’t remodel their kitchens or bathrooms just to keep up with design trends. They used what they had until it really needed replacing. Toilet leaking? Dad fixed that. Younger generations chase constant home upgrades to keep in line with expensive trends.
Fitness Without Fancy Gear
Treadmills, Pelotons, and monthly subscriptions to pricey fitness apps are all the rage today. But, back in the day, boomers stayed fit with a few weights or bodyweight exercises. No pricey machines or fancy apps required. They got their workouts for free.
Carpool Kings and Queens
Public transport and carpools were more common for boomers. They shared rides and saved gas money. Younger generations love convenience. Ride-shares or driving solo are now the order of the day. Boomers made transportation affordable by teaming up.
Pets Without Pampering
Make no mistake - Boomers loved their pets. But, they didn’t spend big money on luxury grooming, spas, and fancy clothes. Food, vet care, and love were more than enough, and their pets were still happy. Younger people spend too much money on these extras.
Old-School Hobbies
Hobbies for boomers were affordable. Things like gardening, fishing, knitting, or woodworking didn’t require expensive memberships or high-tech tools. Older generations enjoyed many hobbies without the hefty price tag that comes with the gear-heavy activities of today.
Magazines Over Monthly Boxes
Today’s generation has their pick of endless monthly subscription boxes - like beauty, food, and fashion. These tend to pile up and cost you a ton. But, back in the day, boomers kept it simple and affordable with a few magazine subscriptions that were way cheaper than the boxes of today.
Skipping the Wellness Hype
Boomers didn’t chase every new health trend that was going around. Instead, they ate balanced meals, stayed active, and skipped expensive supplements or fad diet products. Younger generations are the ones who overspend chasing wellness fads, while boomers kept it practical and saved hundreds of dollars.
DIY Haircuts and Beauty
Boomers often cut their hair at home or went to a simple barber or beauty shop. There were no highlights every month, no lash extensions, and no fake tans to maintain. Younger generations today drop hundreds on beauty maintenance every month.
One TV For All
Can you imagine only having one television in your house? Boomers did it this way, and everyone shared the one TV in the house. No flat screens in every room, no streaming on tablets, and no gaming consoles hooked up to multiple sets.
Modest Travel Choices
Boomers didn’t fly often. Air travel was super expensive back in the day, so they saved it for rare occasions. Most holidays were local or close enough to get to by car. Today, however, younger generations book overseas holidays and fly almost everywhere.
