In my previous post about a letter to my college self, I talked about not spending all of your money on food while in college. I feel like there are a lot of things that we don’t realize we need to save money for, then when it comes time to go and make these big purchases, we find ourselves scrambling around trying to find money – or even worse, you desperately need money to fix your car or another emergency comes up and your savings account won’t cover it. Keep on reading to find out what adult things you should start saving for now!
1.) Reliable Transportation
I bought my first car when I was 16. I was able to do so because I worked a lot over the summer at a local shop and since I was living at home, I didn’t have any bills to pay. I saved all of my paychecks and I was able to buy a car, by myself! It’s something I’m super proud of. I obviously bought a used car and it worked out for me since I didn’t do a ton of driving, I mainly just stayed in town. This car had some issues, but for a 16-year-old it was perfect. When I started college, I was going to be a commuter and I knew my car would no longer be as good as it had been, especially because it needed some repairs that I didn’t have money for. I decided to go to a car dealership, trade in my old car and get a new 2014 car. Now, I must admit this may not be the smartest decision for everyone, but I knew I could afford it and that I needed it. Basically what I’m trying to say is, save your money for your car. Without a car, you can’t work. Even if just putting $25 a week away in case something happens, it’s worth it! Also putting a down payment on your car can lower your monthly payments, so saving for that is a good idea too.
2.) Mattress
This might sound silly to some, but trust me. A bad mattress can affect your sleep, which then will affect your performance in school and work. Investing in a good mattress is extremely smart and it’s worth it! Mattresses are very expensive, which is why it’s a good reason to start saving for it now. Most mattress retailers offer financing if you’re comfortable with that, but sometimes it’s a better idea to buy it in full (if you can!) If buying a new mattress doesn’t fit into your financial plan, try getting a comfortable mattress topper until you can afford a new one.
3.) Luggage
Again, this might sound silly. Luggage is important! Whether you’re going to spend the weekend at your moms or if you’re going on vacation far away, you need good luggage. Whatever the occasion, you definitely don’t want your suitcase to bust open mid trip.
4.) A Tool Box
This is something I wish I had saved for earlier. When Tyler and I moved into our apartment, we had to furnish it and most furniture nowadays you need to build. We didn’t have the right tools and it was such a pain and caused a lot of unnecessary frustration. Save for a toolbox that has a lot of different things in it – you never know when you’ll need to repair something or build a new kitchen table!
5.) Sofa
You can probably see a trend here, most of these items you might be purchasing when you move out on your own. Moving is stressful but trying to furnish your place is even more stressful! Tyler and I couldn’t figure out where to get a sofa from, how much we wanted to spend and if one would fit. We opted for a cheap futon, but I really wish that we had saved our money and spent it on a nice sofa instead since the futon isn’t entirely comfortable. Tuck away about $400 for future furniture!
6.) A Savings Account!
Lastly, start putting money into your savings account NOW. You never know when you’re going to run into an emergency and you have to dish out hundreds of dollars. Having a backup plan is smart and will give you peace of mind knowing that you have backup funds. Try not to touch your savings account unless it’s absolutely necessary (something I need to start telling myself more!) This money could be used as a security deposit for your future house or apartment, a down payment on a car or could help pay a medical bill.
I hope you enjoyed the post! What’s an “adult” purchase that you’re saving for? Let me know!
Thanks so much for reading, as always <3
Xoxo, Rae
Disclaimer: This post does not contain affiliate links & the post is not sponsored!
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