There's a big difference between being cheap and being thrifty. There are times when it's appropriate to save a buck and purchase the least expensive product, though there are occasions when it's in your best interest to spend the money and get the very best you can afford. Quality should play a huge role in what you purchase, because sometimes buying the cheapest item will cost you more money in the long run. (For additional reading, see Expensive Purchases That Can Save You Money.)
1. Footwear
Your feet are what keep you mobile, so you have to take care of them by wearing proper shoes. Though the health benefits of wearing good shoes may be obvious, wearing cheap shoes can also hurt your pocketbook. Inexpensive shoes will require more frequent replacement, and could lead to costly trips to the podiatrist if you develop foot injuries. You can also save money when buying dress shoes by focusing on quality over quantity. A good pair of shoes with a timeless design can last you a lifetime. Good-quality shoes that have been properly constructed are typically worth repairing if they're damaged or if the soles wear out, and they're probably a lot more comfortable to wear. Cheap shoes that are uncomfortable will likely end up in the trash, and that's just a waste of your money. The exception? It's probably more money-wise to buy inexpensive footwear when buying shoes that you only expect to wear once or twice for a specific occasion.2. Mattress
You sleep on your mattress every night. And what's a good night's sleep worth to you? It is suggested that mattresses are replaced every 10 years, so if you'd like to get the full lifespan of your purchase, you should avoid cheap mattresses that won't hold up as well as the more expensive models. Springs can start to creak and the mattress can sag in the middle, only requiring a premature replacement.3. Electronics
Even though the world of electronics may seem like it's ever-evolving, there is something to be said for buying higher-quality electronic products. There's no sense in buying the cheap knockoffs that can't be serviced. Even if you can't afford to keep up with the cutting-edge technology all the time, ensuring that you're buying from reputable companies that produce products which can be easily serviced will save you money in the long run. Try to make a couple of years commitment to your electronic purchases. You don't want to buy products that will be obsolete a year after you buy them.4. Food
7 cheap purchases that will make you pay
