We live in a world where almost everything can be delivered with the tap of a button. Food, clothes, groceries, and entertainment are easier to access than ever before. But convenience often comes at a price — and those small fees and markups can quietly drain your budget.

Think about your past month. Did you order takeout instead of cooking? Add one more streaming service to the list? Use “buy now, pay later” for a quick purchase? None of these things are bad on their own, but together they can add up to hundreds of dollars each year.

Here’s a look at some common convenience habits and how the costs stack up:

How to Take Back Control

Pick your favorites. Keep the 1–2 conveniences that bring you the most joy and cut the rest.
Set a cap. Budget a set amount for delivery, subscriptions, or extras each month.
DIY where you can. Cooking at home or brewing coffee doesn’t just save money — it can become a ritual you enjoy.