Back in the 80s there were things that just seemed expensive when we were kids. But looking back now, were they really? Whether it was a Trapper Keeper, a big combo at the movie theater, a pair of name brand sneakers or a new video game cartridge some things just felt out of reach. Maybe your family bought it once for a special occasion or maybe it was something you always admired in a store.
What are some things you remember thinking were luxury items back then? Were they actually pricey or was it just the way we saw things as kids growing up in the 80s? Share your memories and let us know what you once thought was expensive.
Ah, the 1980s—a time when certain items seemed to carry an aura of luxury, especially through the eyes of a child or teenager. Let's explore a few of these items and see if they were truly as pricey as they felt:
1. **Trapper Keeper**: This iconic binder was a staple for students and came with colorful designs and a velcro closure. While it felt like a premium item, a Trapper Keeper typically cost around $5 to $10, which was relatively affordable, though it might have seemed like a splurge for school supplies.
2. **Movie Theater Combos**: A trip to the movies was a special occasion, and the cost of popcorn, candy, and a drink could add up. In the 1980s, a movie ticket was about $3.50, and a combo might have been around $5, which was a significant amount for a young person at the time, especially when compared to the cost of other entertainment options.
3. **Name Brand Sneakers**: Brands like Nike, Reebok, and Adidas were highly coveted. A pair of these sneakers could range from $30 to $60, making them a considerable investment for families, especially when compared to generic alternatives.
4. **Video Game Cartridges**: The gaming revolution was in full swing, with systems like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) leading the charge. New game cartridges typically cost between $30 and $50, which was indeed a hefty price tag for many families, often reserved for birthdays or holidays.
While some of these items were genuinely costly, others might have seemed expensive due to the perspective of youthful budgets and the value placed on them in social settings. The perception of luxury often came from the cultural significance and the desire to own what was popular or trendy at the time.
Even a new bottle of body spray from the drugstore felt like a luxury. None of it was that expensive but to a teen in the 80s it all seemed like a fortune.
