There’s nothing like a little FOMO (fear of missing out) to push a perfectly rational adult into financial quicksand. Whether it’s that influencer-approved water bottle or the newest tech gadget your coworker can’t stop raving about, we’ve all felt the temptation to hit “buy now” just to feel like we’re in the loop.
But here’s the truth: many of these popular purchases lose their appeal fast, and worse, they quietly chip away at your budget in ways you may not see until the damage is done. That $50 here or $200 there may seem like a reward for working hard, but stack enough of these “trendy” buys together, and you’ll soon wonder where your savings went.
Let’s take a look at 10 seemingly harmless purchases that FOMO has pushed into the mainstream and how they may be wrecking your budget behind the scenes.
1. Subscription Boxes That Pile Up Unused Products
From skincare to snacks to clothes, subscription boxes promise curated fun right at your doorstep. The problem? Most people only use a small fraction of what they receive. And those $30–$60 monthly charges add up fast. Before you know it, you’ve got a pile of unused stuff and a lighter bank account.
2. Trendy Kitchen Gadgets You Use Once
Yes, TikTok convinced half the country they needed an air fryer, a juicer, or an ice ball press. While some tools can be genuinely helpful, many end up collecting dust. If it doesn’t simplify your life or save you time weekly, it probably wasn’t worth the money.
3. “It” Water Bottles and Tumblers
They’re sleek, reusable, and sitting on desks across America. The price? Often $40 or more. Staying hydrated is important, but let’s be honest: many of these high-end bottles are more about being seen than serving a functional upgrade. And people often collect multiple versions “just because.”
4. Limited Edition Streetwear and Sneakers
Hyped drops create a sense of urgency that’s hard to resist. But unless you’re flipping these items for profit (and doing it smartly), you may end up with hundreds tied up in items you rarely wear or are too scared to scuff. Some shoes sell out in minutes, but their value can tank just as fast if the hype dies down.
5. “Quiet Luxury” Basics With Loud Price Tags
Social media has shifted from flashy logos to understated, high-quality basics, but the prices haven’t dropped. Many “stealth wealth” brands charge premium prices for plain items marketed as timeless. But the cost-per-wear doesn’t always make sense if the purchase wasn’t truly needed.
6. Fitness Equipment Inspired by Influencers
Maybe you bought that smart mirror workout system or the resistance bands with a matching case. But if your workout motivation faded after a few weeks, the ROI is nonexistent. Home fitness can save money in the long run, but only if you actually use the gear consistently.
7. High-End Skincare You Can’t Stick To
Ten-step skincare routines sound great until you realize how much you’ve spent on serums, mists, and under-eye creams you don’t use regularly. What’s worse: FOMO-driven purchases often ignore what your skin actually needs, and effectiveness doesn’t always match price tags.
8. Streaming Service Overload
In the quest to keep up with every must-watch series, it’s easy to stack up subscriptions to Netflix, Hulu, Max, Disney+, Apple TV+, and more. At $10–$20 each, that adds up to cable-level prices. And chances are, you’re not even watching all of them each month.
9. Seasonal Decor That’s All Vibe, No Value
There’s a certain pressure to refresh your home with every season—new pillows, candles, decorative trays, and more. But most of these pieces are only displayed for a few weeks and then boxed up until next year (if ever). That money could be better spent—or saved.
10. Tech Upgrades That Add Zero New Functionality
A new phone every year? A smartwatch with one added feature? Marketers are pros at making slightly updated devices feel essential. But unless your current tech is broken or outdated for your needs, these upgrades are just expensive flexes. And the depreciation is instant.
FOMO is Sneaky
FOMO spending is sneaky. It often feels justified in the moment, like you’re rewarding yourself or investing in your lifestyle. But many trendy purchases fade in excitement almost as fast as the unboxing. The smarter move? Pause before every “add to cart” and ask: “Would I still want this if no one else knew I had it?”
You might be surprised how many things fall off your wishlist when the only person you’re trying to impress is yourself.
Which FOMO-fueled buy did you regret the most or defend to the end?
Read More:
5 Beauty Buys to Skip—and the Drugstore Dupes That Crush Them
8 Peer-Pressure Splurges Making You Broke While Your Friends Barely Notice
Riley is an Arizona native with over nine years of writing experience. From personal finance to travel to digital marketing to pop culture, she’s written about everything under the sun. When she’s not writing, she’s spending her time outside, reading, or cuddling with her two corgis.
