24 Expensive Things People Buy Then Never Use

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We all have those times when we treat ourselves to a shopping spree but end up with pricey items we never use. 

This article looks at 24 expensive things people buy but never use and which of the high-cost items are commonly left to gather dust in the back of our closets.

So, if you’ve got a closet full of unused gadgets or a garage packed with expensive toys like bikes and cars, you’re not alone. 

This list isn’t just about wasted money but about our shared impulse spending habits. It’s a reminder that many of us are in the same boat, making unnecessary and often unused purchases.

We gathered this list by researching various surveys and studies on consumer spending habits and our own experiences. 

So, if you’re looking to declutter, save money, or avoid future buyer’s remorse, explore this list and see if any of your spending habits are reflected in it.

#1. Boats

If you’ve ever visited a marina, you will notice that many boat slips are full of unused boats. 

Many people buy a boat without realizing that it requires expensive maintenance and storage fees, and it’s hard to find the extra time actually to use it.

#2. Second Homes

Buying a vacation or second home can be an exciting experience, but it also comes with a hefty price tag, and sometimes it is never used.

Even if a house is bought to renovate as an investment, it can often end up just sitting

with ongoing maintenance costs, property taxes, and insurance fees that can add up quickly.

#3. Drones

Drones have become a popular hobby in recent years, but many people don’t realize that you can’t just buy a drone and start flying it wherever you want to.

There are regulations for flying drones, and drones require regular maintenance and updates, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

#4. Exercise Equipment

Who hasn’t bought a piece of exercise equipment used as a clothes rack?

Some exercise equipment is very expensive, so it’s important to carefully consider the cost and potential usage before investing in it.

#5. Fancy Kitchen Gadgets

If you watch cooking shows or social media videos, you may feel tempted to buy all the latest fancy kitchen gadgets.

However, these fancy gadgets such as cappuccino machines, pasta makers, and air fryers can be expensive and mostly will just take up counter space that you actually need.

#6. Musical Instruments

Many people want to learn to play a musical instrument, so they purchase an expensive guitar, piano, or drum set with high hopes of becoming a musician.

But learning to play a musical instrument takes hours of regular practice and paying for lessons, so make sure you are committed to the time and effort. 

Otherwise, your expensive purchase may end up collecting dust in the corner of the room.

#7. Tech Gadgets

Who doesn’t love the newest tech gadgets, but how often do you use them after the initial excitement wears off?

Whether it’s a virtual reality headset, smartwatch, or drone, these high-tech devices can be expensive and quickly become outdated.

#8. Premium Subscriptions

Whether it’s a streaming service, an expensive dating site, or a monthly box of curated items, subscriptions can be very expensive and go on for years without you even realizing how much money you are wasting.

Before signing up for any subscription, make sure you will actually use and enjoy it regularly. 

#9. Memberships

So you want a gym membership or a membership to your local museum or other organization? 

Always think about how often you will use it and if it truly aligns with your lifestyle and interests so that you don’t let impulse buying dictate your spending habits.

#10. Timeshare Properties

A luxurious vacation spot you can visit every year may sound like a dream come true, but a timeshare property can be expensive and come with hidden costs. 

After visiting for a time or two, you may find yourself bored with the same vacation spot and decide that your money would be better spent on different experiences.

#11. Telescope

Purchasing a telescope may seem like a must-have item, especially if you’re into stargazing, but consider how often you will use it.

If you live in a city with high light pollution, you may not have the best experience, and your telescope could end up collecting dust. 

#12. Generator

Having a generator on hand may seem like a smart investment for power outages, but think about how many times a year the power goes out for extended periods.

Unless you live in an area prone to frequent outages, it is not worth the initial cost, and it will likely take up storage space you could use to store items you use daily.

#13. Hobby Supplies

Who doesn’t love a fun hobby? But before you stock up on all the supplies, consider if you have the time and motivation to engage in it consistently.

It may be better to try out the hobby first with borrowed materials or cheaper alternatives before investing in expensive supplies.

#14. College Degree

A college degree often comes with a hefty price tag and may not always be the best investment for everyone.

If you aren’t sure of your career goals, you may be buying an expensive degree that you won’t use.

#15. Outdoor Gear

Buying camping or outdoor activity gear can be tempting, but unless you are an avid outdoor enthusiast, it may not be the best use of your money.

You can usually rent or borrow equipment for occasional trips and save money by buying only the gear for the sport you do regularly.

#16. China and Crystal

While china and crystal may look elegant, they are often expensive purchases that are never used. 

Unless you frequently host fancy dinner parties, these items may end up taking up space in your cabinets. 

#17. Cars

Whether it is a vintage car you have always wanted or the latest model on the showroom floor, buying that fancy car can be expensive. 

When buying an extra car, think about how often you will use it and if you will be sorry you purchased something that sits in your garage because it is too expensive to drive every day.

#18. Expensive Clothes

It can be tempting to splurge on designer clothes or the latest fashion trends, but trends come and go, so what you spend your money on today will soon be out of date, and it will hang in the back of your closet, taking up valuable space.

Remember, it’s not about how much your clothes cost, but how well they fit and make you feel, so buy what you like, not what the latest trend says you should.

#19. Heart Defibrillator

Unless you have a specific medical condition requiring a heart defibrillator, it may be a purchase you never use, which is, in this case, a good thing. 

It’s important to prioritize your health and well-being over expensive purchases that may collect dust in your garage. 

#20. Insurance 

While it’s important to have some insurance, whether for your health, home, or car, as unexpected events can happen at any time, it’s also important not to overpay for unnecessary coverage.

Think about how much and what kind of insurance you truly need, and don’t let insurance companies pressure you into buying more than necessary.

#21. Extended Warranty

You may be offered an extended warranty when you buy a car or other high-priced item. 

While it may seem like a good idea to have extra coverage in case something goes wrong, these warranties are usually unnecessary, and you never use them.

#22. Gaming System

While the latest Oculus VR or other gaming system may seem exciting, you don’t want to spend a lot of money on something you will only use a few times.

Many gamers found that VR caused them to experience motion sickness and didn’t use it as much as they thought they would.

#23. Camera 

Photography is a great hobby, but buying an expensive camera may not be worth it if you will only use it occasionally.

You can still get some great photos with less expensive cameras, even your smartphone, or rent a camera for special events.

#24. Motorcycle 

Owning a motorcycle may seem like an exhilarating experience that you want to have, but If you’re not an avid rider, that expensive bike may sit in your garage collecting dust.

Consider renting a motorcycle for a weekend or joining a riding group to test your interest before investing. It may save you money in the long run.

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