8 Things Teens Splurge Money On

Let me be frank, I’m a teenager too and I’ve undoubtedly faced times where I’ve spent all my cash and end up being flat broke. Be it either that cupcake I had to have, because it looked delicious although I’m totally on a diet or that pair of heels, one can never have too many right?! 

Here’s a list I’ve compiled, of what I believe the Sri Lankan youth tends to spend heavily on and end up regretting their spending decisions in the long run. 

Clothes, shoes and LOTS of accessories! - you simply cannot deny the fact that half the cash you got has gone to those “must have designer shoes, and jeans" and now you’re living on noodles for lunch, and trying to ask your parents for tiny loans. We know how important it’s to get dressed and look your best and to take pride in your appearance, but was it really necessary to spend thousands on that pair of jeans when you could've gotten a similar pair for much cheaper? Not to mention the fact that fashion trends go out of style faster than you can spell your favourite designer label! 

That 4th coffee break and food glorious food – Coffee and food are GOOD, like Joey would put it. And it’s fine to get that occasional cappuccino from your favourite coffee place or that gourmet sandwich that costs a few extra bucks. What’s not fine is doing this regularly and wasting your roll of cash on luxury food items.

Smartphones and mobile apps – Long gone are the days when teens spent money on game boards, cards and a walkman. Now it’s all about the latest phone, and that mobile app you absolutely must have! The constant tweets, instagram likes and facebook posts warrant the latest phone. Hello flawless Kylie Jenner Selfies. #INeedThatiPhone!

School events & graduation balls – Graduation balls are always fun and exciting, simply to put on your beautiful gown and to enjoy time with your friends (and hopefully, crushes). But those glittery heels don't come cheap. Now teenagers and parents have to spend thousands! From the tailor made suit and dress, to the salon appointments and transport. 

That Playstation 4 & Xbox – May God have mercy on those who spend wads of cash on new consoles every time they come out and those ‘Awesome’ games, where you even avoid consumption of food just to pay for it. 

Concert tickets & Festivals – we love to identify with music and always dream of heading to a live show where your idol would sing. But we saw how Enrique blew off our VIP tickets and then came Jason Derulo & Sean Paul. Choose between absolute favourites and spend wisely.

Romantic dates – Whatever happened to old fashioned walks in the park, and seeking pleasure in less extravagant thrills? Five star high teas and chilling at some posh restaurant seems a must nowadays. What about movie dates? Slumber parties at home? 

Online shopping FTW – How convenient it is to simply add stuff you like to your cart and rack up a giant total. Just think a little, lest you regret purchasing those orange shoes – ‘what were you even thinking?’ Bargains… they aren’t really money savers anymore. 

          By Zainab Faizal