Subscription boxes have become trendy the past few years, covering everything from beauty products and gourmet snacks to fitness gear and pet supplies. There’s definitely a lot of appeal to getting a curated box of fun stuff delivered to your doorstep each month. But are these subscription boxes really a good way to discover new products, or are they too expensive to be worthwhile?
The appeal of subscription boxes
Curated convenience
One of the biggest draws of these boxes is that they’re so convenient. You don’t have to go to a store, or even spend time browsing a website—everything is chosen for you, based on your preferences. Whether it’s the latest skincare products or keto snacks, subscription boxes make it easy for you to discover and try new things, with very little time or effort.
Personalization and discovery
Most subscription boxes offer a personalized experience, tailoring the contents to your preferences and needs. That personalization can make the box feel like a special treat. It’s also fun to discover new brands and products you might not have known about otherwise.
The element of surprise
There’s a certain excitement in not knowing exactly what you’ll get each month. The surprise factor can make subscription boxes feel like a monthly gift from a thoughtful friend, adding a little joy and anticipation..
Value for money
Some subscription boxes claim to offer products at a lower cost than if you bought them separately. This can be especially true for beauty boxes, where high-end samples and full-size products can be worth more than what you pay for the subscription box.
The hidden costs of subscription boxes
The costs add up
$20 to $50 per month might not seem like much, but the costs definitely add up over time. A $30 monthly subscription is $360 per year, which can be significant, especially if you subscribe to multiple boxes. You could be spending hundreds or even thousands each year on subscription boxes without even realizing it.
Product overload
Getting a box of new products every month can sometimes mean ending up with more than you can use. Then you have to deal with clutter and waste, as well as the potential for products to expire before you can use them. You also might get products you don’t like and will never use. It’s important to consider whether you’re actually using and enjoying the items you receive.
Lack of control
The element of surprise can be great fun for some people, but others may find it frustrating not knowing exactly what they’re paying for. You also might receive items that don’t suit your taste or needs, which can make the subscription feel less valuable.
Impulse spending
Subscription boxes can encourage impulsive spending. The excitement of receiving a box can overshadow practical financial considerations, and sometimes getting into that mindset results in spending more on other items you didn’t budget for.
Making the right choice
Look at your needs and usage
Before subscribing, consider whether the box aligns with your needs and interests. Are you likely to use and enjoy the products you receive? If you find yourself accumulating stuff you’re never going to use, it might be worth re-evaluating the subscription.
Set a budget
Decide how much you’re willing to spend on subscription boxes each month. Stick to that budget to avoid overspending and make sure the cost of the subscription fits within your overall financial plan.
Do your research
Read reviews and research different subscription boxes to find one that offers good value and suits your preferences. Some boxes may offer better value or higher quality products than others.
Try before you commit
If possible, start with a shorter subscription period, like a month-to-month plan, to see if you like the service before you commit to a longer-term subscription. That way you can cancel without being locked in if the box doesn’t meet your expectations.
