If you grew up in the ‘80s, you lived through a world that was totally its own vibe—rotary phones, mixtapes, neon everything, and somehow surviving without the internet. It was a time of weird trends, unforgettable toys, and things that only made sense then. Anyone else remember blowing into a video game cartridge to make it work?
Here are 12 things that only truly make sense if you were lucky enough to grow up in the ‘80s.
Saturday Morning Cartoons
Remember the excitement of Saturday mornings? You’d rush to the TV, eager to watch your favorite shows. Cartoons like G.I. Joe, Transformers, and Thundercats set the scene for a fun-filled morning.
The thrill of grabbing a bowl of cereal while enjoying those animated adventures was a special part of growing up. Those moments created lasting memories and a sense of nostalgia that still brings a smile today.
The thrill of creating mixtapes
Creating mixtapes was an exciting way to share your favorite songs. You spent hours selecting the perfect tracks to express your feelings or capture a moment.
Each tape was personal, crafted with care to resonate with the recipient. The anticipation of giving it to someone special made it even more rewarding.
It was a unique form of communication that allowed you to connect through music.
Playing arcade games at the mall
You remember the excitement of entering the mall and heading straight to the arcade. The bright lights and sounds of games drew you in, creating an atmosphere full of energy.
You likely spent hours trying to beat high scores on classic machines. Friends gathered around, sharing tips and cheering each other on. Those moments were filled with fun and friendly competition.
Collecting and trading Garbage Pail Kids cards
Collecting Garbage Pail Kids cards was a rite of passage for many kids in the ’80s. You might remember browsing the local store, excited to pick up a pack or two.
Trading these cards with friends was just as thrilling. You could show off your rare finds while completing your collection. The unique characters and hilarious artwork kept you coming back for more!
Sporting a side ponytail
Sporting a side ponytail was a must in the ‘80s. This hairstyle added a playful touch to your look and was perfect for everything from school to parties.
To achieve the look, gather your hair to one side, secure it with a colorful scrunchie, and let some strands fall freely for that casual vibe. It was all about embracing fun and creativity.
Wearing slap bracelets
Do you remember the excitement of wearing slap bracelets? These colorful accessories would wrap around your wrist with just a quick slap.
They were made with metal tape measures inside, making them both fun and easy to use.
Kids loved collecting them, and they became a staple of ‘80s fashion and playground culture.
Endless hours of Pac-Man
Remember the excitement of inserting a quarter and diving into the maze of Pac-Man? You spent countless hours chasing ghosts and gobbling dots.
The colorful graphics and catchy sounds made it hard to resist. Every game felt like a new challenge, as you competed for high scores with friends. Those moments shaped your childhood in unforgettable ways.
Cassette tapes and Walkmans
You remember the excitement of recording your favorite songs on cassette tapes. Creating mix tapes was an art form, letting you share your musical taste with friends.
Carrying your music became portable with Walkmans. They let you listen on the go, whether you were walking to school or hanging out in the park. Those memories make music a personal experience.
Watching movies on VHS tapes
Watching movies on VHS tapes was a staple of your childhood. You eagerly awaited new releases at the video rental store, scanning the shelves for the latest titles.
Setting up the VCR was a small ritual, and rewinding tapes became a necessary chore. Often, you recorded shows from TV, creating your own custom collection. Each tape held a special memory, making movie nights feel magical.
Owning a Trapper Keeper
Owning a Trapper Keeper was almost a rite of passage in the ’80s. It wasn’t just a binder; it was a colorful statement of style and personality. You could choose designs that reflected your interests, making school supplies feel personal.
They kept your papers neat and organized, which was a big deal back then. Plus, the satisfying sound of that Velcro closure is a nostalgic memory for many.
Using pay phones to call home
Remember the days of rushing to a pay phone to let your parents know you made it home safely? You’d search for quarters, hoping you had enough change for the call.
Dialing 1-800-COLLECT made it easier, and you would often use it to avoid extra charges. Those quick chats outside school or at the mall are part of what made growing up in the ‘80s so memorable.
Sticker Collections
Growing up in the ’80s meant trading stickers with friends. You might remember the excitement of collecting scratch and sniff stickers that added a fun sensory element to your collection.
Puffy and fuzzy stickers were also huge hits. They made your sticker book stand out, and choosing your favorites at the store was a delightful experience.
