Becka Wall – @beckawall

These days, you can find a cheap version of anything you might need. Which is a blessing, for those of us with low bank accounts – but when is buying cheap costing you more money in the long run? Is it better to have something that will last years and years?

Save future you pain, time and energy by investing in the right purchases upfront. Here are some of our suggestions:

Clothes

In the era of H&M and Forever 21, it can be difficult to convince yourself to spend more than $10 on any one article of clothing. But the cheap stuff from those stores fall apart in a minute, shrink in the wash and quickly go out of style. The solution? Buy staple pieces from brands like LOFT, GAP and Banana Republic. Sure, the $20 tag on a shirt feels steep when you hand over your card, but four years later when you realize you’ve had the same black shirt all this time (instead of buying a new one every six months), you’ll thank me.

Bedding

Sleep is important. Don’t you forget it. Cozy blankets, a mattress and pillows that are comfortable and supportive – these are crucial ingredients to the recipe for “a good night’s rest.” It’s OK to hunt down deals on name brand mattresses and look for ones within your price point, but don’t settle for the cheapest one. If you get a good night’s rest, maybe you’ll be more alert and creative at work, and then you’ll get a promotion, and a raise, and then you’ll be trying to convince someone else to cozy up for a solid eight hours of snooze-time (or something like that).

Sneakers

Running and activities like Crossfit, weightlifting and dancing can be really hard on your joints. Ease the burden on your body by heading to the nearest sporting goods store and investing in a good pair of sneakers. Be sure to ask for help if needed so you can find the right fit.

Seasonal Fruits & Vegetables

In-season fresh fruits and veggies have a better, deeper flavor and contain more nutrients. A couple of dollars more on your grocery bill each week will mean tastier and healthier food!

Booze

It’s tempting to go for the absolute cheapest bottle of wine all the time, or the bottom shelf gin, but for a few dollars more you can treat yourself to a drink with deeper flavor and comforting aromas. Make that after-work drink something to truly look forward to.