If you’ve noticed prices creeping up on everyday items, you’re not alone. Many shoppers are rethinking what they put in their carts as budgets get tighter and inflation sticks around.
Understanding which items aren’t worth the cost anymore can help you make smarter choices and stretch your money further. Knowing what others are cutting back on might give you a clearer idea of where to trim your own spending.
Peloton equipment
If you’re thinking about buying Peloton gear, keep in mind prices have gone up recently, both for new equipment and subscriptions. That means your costs could be pretty high overall.
Used Peloton bikes are getting popular since lots of people are selling theirs. But many of those bikes are older models, so you might end up with equipment that’s already worn.
Peloton has also started a resale marketplace to make buying used gear easier. Still, supply chain issues and recalls mean you should double-check the condition before committing.
Bulk bacon from Costco
If you buy bulk bacon from Costco, you might have noticed some changes. Shoppers say the bacon’s thickness and fat content have become inconsistent.
Some even mention a new, gamey flavor that wasn’t there before. It’s enough to make people switch brands.
Costco hasn’t officially addressed this issue, though similar complaints have popped up at other stores too. So, if bacon quality matters to you, it’s worth keeping an eye on.
Secondhand clothing
You might think thrift stores are treasure troves, but these days, finding quality secondhand clothing is getting tougher. Fast fashion floods many thrift shops, meaning you often come across poorly made, worn-out pieces.
Buying secondhand can save money and help the environment. But if you’re chasing well-made or vintage finds, be prepared to dig deeper — or rethink what’s worth your time.
Also, some items just don’t hold up well secondhand, so be picky. If you’re not careful, you could end up with clothes you wear once and toss.
RVs
If you’re thinking about buying an RV right now, it might be smart to hold off. Inventory is rising, which means prices could drop, but resale values are also taking a hit.
You’ll find better deals if you shop carefully, but be ready for maintenance and unexpected repairs. Some models are more reliable than others, so do your research before making a choice.
The RV market has slowed down, so you can negotiate more. Still, consider if the costs and hassle are worth it before diving into RV ownership.
Mattresses
You might have noticed fewer people rushing to buy new mattresses these days. Shoppers, especially younger ones, often expect their mattress to last only a year or so, which is a big change from the past.
Memory foam used to be the go-to choice, but now many are looking for alternatives like hybrids or innerspring models. Plus, with so many brands popping up, it can be tough to know which one is actually worth your money.