10 Best Buy-It-For-Life Items, According to George Kamel
Most buy-it-for-life items tend to cost more than cheaper alternatives, but therein lies their value. You’ll save more money purchasing one well-made product than you would buying several cheaper options which consistently break and wear down faster than an investment piece.
Inspired by a conversation with Dave Ramsey, money expert George Kamel recently revealed on YouTube the 10 timeless items he said are worth splurging on for a decade-long return on investment. Let’s see what made his list and why it’s worth buying for life.
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1. Luggage
If you buy a cheap suitcase, don’t be surprised when a wheel snaps off or locks up as you’re sprinting to your terminal.
Kamel recommends buying a suitcase built for getting tossed around in an airport. Look for strong zippers, reinforced corners and durable, 360-degree spinner wheels to glide you smoothly to your destination.
2. Leather Boots
A pair of real leather boots mold to your feet over time. Gradually as the leather softens, these boots become more comfortable to wear and even start to feel custom-made to your feet. Cheap boots, on the other hand, fade and wear out quickly.
What happens when the sole starts to wear out in real leather boots? Kamel said you can get the boots repaired instead of throwing them out. This turns a short-term purchase into one that lasts 10-15 years or more.
3. Wristwatch
While Kamel likes wearing Apple smartwatches as much as anyone else, the type of buy-it-for-life watch he’s referring to is a quality mechanical watch.
Unlike a smartwatch which requires software updates, a mechanical wristwatch simply tells time. Upscale watches, like the Rolex brand, can even be passed down as heirlooms if you take good care of them.
4. A Good Set of Knives
Good knives, Kamel said, can last decades in your kitchen with some basic sharpening. These knives also tend to be safer to use since they cut neatly and predictably compared to their cheaper counterparts. Have them professionally sharpened and keep them honed, and you'll pass them down to your grandchildren.
5. Cast Iron Skillet
The more you season a well-made cast iron skillet over the years, the more it starts creating a natural non-stick surface. The skillet’s wear and tear doesn’t break it down but rather improves its quality as you cook food in it. Can a cheap non-stick pan you bought for less than $10 do that? Definitely not.
6. Hardware Tools
Cheap hardware tools strip screws, snap under pressure and ultimately turn what was supposed to be a 10-minute DIY fix into something you need to call (and pay) a professional to step in and fix.
Keep walking past the cheap tools and seek out only those high-quality ones from brands like Craftsman, DeWalt and Milwaukee. These will cost more money and feel a bit different (slightly heavier and more balanced) in your hands.
7. Well-Made Outerwear
A high-quality coat or jacket is made to protect you from the elements while ensuring you look stylish at the same time. Cheap outerwear, though it might look cool, cannot compete with wind, rain or freezing temperatures.
You’ll stay warm and cozy in a quality coat made from materials designed to last. And speaking of made to last, you’re unlikely to need to buy a new coat the following year if you purchase a well-constructed coat with a classic appearance.
8. Musical Instruments
If you’re a serious musician who knows how to play a musical instrument, and for whom this instrument is not a passing fad, you know the importance of investing in a quality instrument. Instruments made from thick, dense materials are easier to play and appreciate in value over time.
Cheap musical instruments, Kamel said, work against you as you play. They’re more liable to hurt your fingers during prolonged use and slip out of tune.
9. Mattresses
Anything that keeps you from touching the ground needs to be high quality and that includes mattresses. Most people spend one-third of their lives in bed and it’s critical to invest in a mattress which can support your body and get in a good night’s sleep.
Good mattresses aren’t cheap, but they are life changing. Kamel said a well-made mattress will typically last anywhere from eight to 12 years and dramatically improve your sleep quality.
10. Kitchen Mixer
When shopping for a kitchen mixer, Kamel recommends keeping an eye out for those made with metal gears and a powerful motor which can handle thick dough without straining or overheating. The cheaper options tend to overheat, stall out and even burn out as early as their first major task.
“If you bake even semi-regularly, this is one of those tools where durability pays for itself,” he said.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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