My 15 Favorite Practical Materialism Investments (for Under $100)
A note from Ben: I’m not affiliated with any of these products. They’re simply tools I’ve personally found useful.
Prices can change, so some may occasionally creep above the $100 mark. More importantly, this list is less about the exact product than the improvement it can make to everyday life. Think of these links as starting points. If a different version better fits your needs, go for it.
Under-the-desk walking pad: Get steps while doing work. Especially great for cold weather months!
King-size blanket for a queen-size bed: Extra coverage means no more midnight tug-of-war.
Houseplants (go local): Taking care of something other than yourself will make you happier. Plus, plants make your space feel more alive. Skip the online order and visit a local nursery instead. If you’re new to plants, start with something forgiving like a pothos, snake plant, or ZZ plant.
Suspension trainer: Weighs almost nothing, packs anywhere, turns any doorway into a gym.
Bluetooth tracking devices: Avoid losing essential items (keys, wallet, car, luggage).
Noise-canceling headphones: People say money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy noise-canceling headphones. Honestly, close enough. Get work done in busy environments like airplanes. Bonus tip: Pack foam earplugs too. I never travel without them for sleeping in loud places.
New socks (men’s, women’s): Ditch the old collection and start fresh with identical pairs. It’s the closest most of us will get to a spiritual awakening.
Cross-cut memory foam pillow: Improve your sleep with proper body alignment.
Blackout curtains: Turn any room into a sleep sanctuary, even for daytime power naps.
Premium showerhead: Transforms you from barely conscious goblin to functioning member of society in seven minutes. Modern alchemy.
Air fryer: Get crispy results in half the time with little-to-no oil. Your weeknight dinner routine will never be the same.
Leatherbound journal and pen: Journal in the morning for mindfulness and creativity.
Quality chef’s knife and frying pan: The dynamic duo that makes you actually look forward to cooking.
Non-greasy sunscreen: Protect your skin without feeling like a greased-up seal.
Electric toothbrush: I bought one as a Valentine’s gift for Jade, and it was so good, she didn’t stay mad at me.
Have a practical materialism investment the community might find helpful? Send it my way at book@benmeer.com, and we’ll consider adding it to the list. Appreciate you.