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In 2025, being financially savvy doesn’t just mean saving more it means knowing what not to spend on.
With the rise of curated lifestyles and social media pressure, it’s easy to fall into spending traps that offer minimal long-term value.
From overpriced events to unnecessary gadgets, some purchases look appealing on the surface but leave your wallet feeling lighter and your life no better off.
Here are seven things you should stop spending money on in and what you can do with that money instead to actually enrich your life.
1. Masterclasses and online courses
It’s tempting to sign up for that new course with a big-name instructor and the promise of transforming your career.
But let’s be honest, how many of us complete these courses? Most people drop out halfway, or the course turns out to be a collection of recycled ideas you could have Googled for free.
Explore free platforms like YouTube, Coursera, edX, or even podcast series.
Save the money you’d have spent on a masterclass and use it to buy a certificate course that will add to your CV, or invest in tools like a better laptop or gadget to support your learning.
2. Over-the-top gender reveals
Gender reveal parties have become a trend-fuelled spending trap, with some events costing more than baby showers.
From balloon setups and coloured smoke bombs to drone displays, many couples are now under pressure to host Instagram-worthy reveals often forgetting that the baby isn’t even born yet.
Host a simple, intimate moment with close family or record a heartfelt video to share the news. Use the saved money for prenatal care, baby supplies, or even start a small emergency fund for your child.
3. Fine dining that’s all vibe, no value
Many upscale restaurants bank on ambience and aesthetics rather than the quality or quantity of their meals. A small portion of food in a well-lit room shouldn’t cost you much.
But in the age of influencer culture, the experience sometimes becomes more about snapping photos than actually enjoying the meal.
Seek out affordable, authentic food spots street food markets, hidden gem restaurants, or home-based chefs. Alternatively, host themed dinner nights with friends where everyone brings a dish.
You'll eat better, spend less, and have a more personal experience. Use the saved money for a cooking class, a grocery haul to meal-prep for a week, or even a food vlog setup if you’re into content creation.
4. Annual gadget upgrades
New phone launches have become yearly events designed to make your current device feel outdated even if it’s functioning perfectly.
While it's tempting to get the latest model with a new colour, most annual upgrades only offer minor improvements in performance or camera quality.
Keep your phone for at least 2–3 years, and instead of buying new, maintain your current device well.
The money saved could fund a much-needed weekend getaway, a new lens or tripod if you're into photography, or be stashed in a high-interest savings account.
5. Fast fashion and one-time outfits
With trends changing faster than ever and influencers doing weekly clothing hauls, it’s easy to feel the need to keep up.
But constantly buying new clothes to stay on trend leaves your wardrobe overflowing and your bank account empty.
Build a capsule wardrobe with timeless, mix-and-match pieces. Thrift shopping, clothing swaps, and supporting local designers can give you fresh looks without breaking the bank.
Use the money you would have spent on fast fashion to invest in a few high-quality staples or even get custom pieces tailored to your style.
6. Subscription overload
In 2025, it's not uncommon to have multiple subscriptions Netflix, Showmax, Spotify, Canva Pro, Notion, gym memberships, delivery apps, and more.
Audit your subscriptions and cut down to the essentials. Share plans with family or friends where possible. Switch to free alternatives like YouTube for entertainment, CapCut for editing, or open-source tools like GIMP and Audacity for creative work.
Use the money saved monthly to build an emergency fund, invest in SACCOs, or pay off debt.
7. Social clout experiences
From helicopter tours to staycations, a lot of experiences people pay for these days are more about the optics than the experience itself. If you’re constantly planning trips or activities just for photos, chances are you’re spending more than you should.
Focus on meaningful experiences that bring real joy nature hikes, weekend road trips, or skill-based retreats.
Choose experiences that recharge you, teach you something, or strengthen relationships. Redirect the money to personal development goals or a savings challenge that pays off long-term.