Seven Splurges CNBC Make It Staff Swear Are Worth the Price
At CNBC Make It, we champion mindful spending. Saving consistently, investing wisely, and finding great deals are cornerstones of our philosophy. However, sometimes the convenience, quality, or sheer joy a product brings justifies a higher price tag. This article explores seven items our staff deemed truly worth the splurge, showcasing how smart spending isn’t always about the lowest price but about investing in experiences and products that enhance quality of life.
Key Takeaways: Splurges That Deliver
- A $90 sophisticated tote bag offering unparalleled organization and durability.
- A $100 water bottle bag perfect for hands-free hydration during any activity.
- A high-quality $100 rain jacket that keeps you dry even in torrential downpours.
- $120 on a game-changing sunscreen that works for sensitive skin.
- A space-saving $200 countertop dishwasher, a lifesaver for apartment dwellers.
- $200 for designer glasses that fit comfortably and finally solved a common eyewear problem.
- An iPad mini for $500, proving its versatility as a portable entertainment and productivity device.
The $90 Tote Bag That Transformed Workdays
Natalie Wu, our digital rotational associate, raves about the Go-Getter Tote from Poppies and Peonies. She spent countless hours searching for the perfect work tote and found this Canadian brand to be superior. “It has flat straps that don’t dig into your shoulder, a zipper, great organizational compartments inside, and it can fit a TON,” she enthuses. The exterior pocket that doubles as a suitcase sleeve is an added bonus, making it ideal for travel.
Hands-Free Hydration: The $100 Water Bottle Sling
Kamaron McNair, our money reporter, initially questioned spending nearly $100 on a Dagne Dover Sloan water bottle sling. However, he admits it’s exceeded expectations. “It holds my 32-ounce Nalgene water bottle along with my phone, keys, and other necessities, all while keeping me hands-free and cool,” he explains. Perfect for festivals like Coachella or long dog walks, the bag’s versatility makes it a worthy investment.
Staying Dry in Style: The $100 Rain Jacket
Cameron Albert-Deitch, our success editor, hadn’t owned a rain jacket since middle school. After researching extensively, he chose the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L, finding a used one on Worn Wear for $107 including shipping. Despite initial concerns about fit, he found it surprisingly adaptable, with adjustable sleeves, waistband, and hood. “Even in downpours, my upper body doesn’t get wet anymore,” he declares, highlighting the jacket’s superior waterproofing.
A Note on Sustainable Spending:
Cameron’s purchase highlights the potential for savings through sustainable choices. Buying pre-owned, high-quality items can be both budget-friendly and environmentally conscious.
Clear Skin Investment: The $120 Sunscreen
Megan Sauer, our success reporter, struggled with acne-prone skin and the negative reactions to previous sunscreens. After a frustrating experience, she invested $120 in Lion Pose skincare products — an AHA Serum and Mineral Sunscreen— specifically formulated for women of color. “It cleared my dry, patchy skin quickly, doesn’t leave a white cast, and acts as a primer,” she shares, highlighting the investment in her skin health and self-confidence.
Apartment Living Upgrade: The $200 Countertop Dishwasher
Jennifer Liu, our senior work reporter, admits to finally giving in and purchasing a Hava countertop dishwasher after years of lacking this convenience in her apartment. “Anyone who’s said money can’t buy happiness has never lived without a dishwasher,” she quips. She found a refurbished model for $199.99 – a significant upgrade to her apartment living experience. Despite its compact size, it efficiently cleans around four place settings, making it a worthwhile investment.
Seeing Clearly: The $200 Designer Frames Revolution
Jennifer Liu also shares her experience with Covry glasses. Designed for individuals with lower nose bridges, these frames resolve the common issue of glasses constantly sliding down. “The ‘elevated fit’ frames sit higher on the nose and away from the cheekbones,” she explains, describing a “game changer” that eliminated the constant readjustment and irritation. Selecting frames through Covry’s home try-on system and utilizing the credit towards her purchase added to the value.
The Surprisingly Versatile $500 iPad Mini
Mike Winters, our money reporter, details his experience with the sixth-generation iPad mini. While initially purchased for movies, sketching, reading, and music, he found it surprisingly versatile. “The 8-inch by 5.3-inch size is the sweet spot—big enough to watch Netflix, but small enough to carry around,” he notes. He finds it ideal for web browsing, making it a useful device at home and on the go.
Ultimately, these purchases demonstrate that the choice of investment should be tied to enhancing one’s daily life and overall sense of well-being. The true value isn’t solely measured in dollars saved but in the long-term benefits and increased quality of life derived from these purchases.
