We all know the scene. The kids come running down the stairs, parents sitting by the open fire, and there's a brand new puppy in a basket with a big red bow. 🐶🥰 Fast forward eight years and you're the one out in the rain with Fido. 😒🌧️
Surprise pups aren't the only gifts that can backfire. Check out our list of gifts with financial strings attached. Hey, we're just looking out for you! 👀
Here’s Five Fast Facts about gifts with strings attached:
- 🐕 The Furry Friend - Let's face it. Pets are a huge financial responsibility, not to mention all the time and energy you'll spend taking care of them. While buying a pet for a loved one is certainly a sweet gesture, it's not always practical. Remember, they'll have to foot the bill for vet visits, food, and the latest pet fashions. Side note: the holidays can be a hectic time to bring an animal into the mix.
- 🧖 The Spa Day - Pampering yourself at the spa is a special day indeed. #selfcare However, if you're going to give someone their own spa day, make sure they'll be able to use it. Depending on the package, your recipient might have to take time off work or find childcare. Additionally, it's standard to tip masseuses and other technicians at the spa at least 20%. Depending on the recipient's financial situation, their day at the spa could be filled with money anxiety.
- ✈️ The Flight Out of Town - Plane tickets could make an awesome gift under the right circumstances. For example, if you know someone's been saving up for a trip and you want to help them reach their goal. However, trips are often more than just a plane ticket. If the person doesn't have the cash for a hotel room, meals, or rental car, a flight probably isn't the best gift.
- 📱 The Latest, Greatest Phone - We all have a friend or family member who *has* to have the latest gadgets, but buying a smartphone isn't always…smart. The cost of the phone itself (usually expensive) is just the beginning. Your recipient will have to pay the phone bill, which could come with a hefty data plan depending on how they want to use it. They'll also be on the hook for things like a phone case, chargers, and accessories.
- 🚗 The Sweet New Ride - And here you thought Happy Honda Days was something from a TV fantasy world. Anyone who's purchased a car knows how expensive it is to insure and maintain it. Buying a car is often a really personal decision, as well. If you're surprising someone with a car, there's a chance they won't like it. Unless you're buying a car for your spouse or partner and you've discussed all the details up front, plan on buying a more practical gift.
🔥Bottom line: Gift giving ain't always easy! It can be tough to pick out the perfect item for that someone special. Make sure you steer clear of any gifts that could come back to bite you. Especially that puppy. Wanna know how much Americans spend on Christmas decorations? Spoiler alert: it's a lot. Check out all the stats and details in this article!
Have you ever had a gift backfire?
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