What if you only spent money on things that brought more value than they cost?
According to George Kamel, a personal finance expert and Ramsey Solutions personality, that’s exactly how you should approach your purchases.
Kamel recently shared 14 of his favorite items under $100 that have genuinely improved his daily life.
He frames each purchase as a “hire” in the business of life: if the item doesn’t deliver more value than it costs, it’s not worth it.
But if it makes your life better in a tangible way, it might deserve a spot in your budget.
Here are Kamel’s 14 recommended purchases under $100:
1. White Noise Machine
Blocks out background noise, especially helpful for light sleepers and parents.
He uses the Yogasleep Dohm Elite, which runs around $50. “Worth every penny.”
He says it helps him sleep through barking dogs and noisy kids, something he calls a “game-changer” for parents.
The real fan sound also makes it feel more natural and soothing than digital noise options.
2. Weighted Blanket
Improves sleep by applying deep pressure.
Kamel uses a 10-lb cooling Twin-size version he found for $29 on Amazon.
“The science behind weighted blankets is wild.”
3. Air Purifier
He uses the Blueair Pure Mini Max, especially useful in homes with pets or nearby construction.
“Indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air,” he said.
“A good air purifier will remove the invisible pollutants, helping you breathe cleaner, healthier air every day. Smells like grandma’s house. And truthfully, I live in a neighborhood with a lot of new construction. So, a lot of dirt and debris and dust flying around.”
4. Soda Maker
A SodaStream saves money and reduces waste from store-bought sparkling water. His model cost about $80 at Costco.
“We almost exclusively drink sparkling water in the Kamel household,” he said.
The model he uses is cordless and doesn’t require electricity, just a CO2 cartridge, making it easy to use and stylish enough for the kitchen counter.
5. Coffee Maker
Recommends the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Brewer to skip pricey coffee runs.
“Life’s too short to drink a K-cup.”
He suggests pairing it with fresh beans you grind yourself for a richer, more satisfying cup.
Once you start brewing at home, he says, you’ll never crave drive-thru coffee again.
6. Mug Warmer or Heated Mug
A $15 Mr. Coffee warmer or a $100 Ember Mug keeps your drink hot for hours.
“Long gone are the days of remicrowaving your coffee.”
Kamel says this is especially helpful for parents juggling kids and chaos in the mornings.
He adds that it’s one of those small comforts that makes a big difference in your routine.
7. Crock-Pot
Affordable and time-saving. Basic models start around $20.
“You just plug it in at your desk. It’ll slowly warm and by the time lunch arrives, your food’s warm and ready.”
Kamel jokes that his Crock-Pot is like his “trad wife” Susie Homemaker, doing the cooking while he’s at work.
He also notes that newer models even include portable lunchbox versions you can use at the office.
8. 6-Foot Phone Charger
Practical upgrade for comfort and reach.
“No more hanging half a femur off the bed to accommodate a tiny charging cable.”
He recommends getting a two-pack of fast-charging cables from Anker for around $10.
A longer cable means less stress and fewer dropped phones.
9. Smart Light Bulbs
Voice-controlled bulbs that offer convenience and ambiance. He uses Feit Electric bulbs from Costco.
“Nothing is more aggressive than walking into a harsh, fluorescently lit living room when you get home from a nightcap at the Olive Garden,” he said.
These bulbs let you change brightness and color with your voice or an app.
Kamel says they’re especially useful for families who want to manage lighting remotely.
10. Apple AirTags
Helps track luggage, keys, wallets, and even cars.
“I have them on everything valuable because my toddler likes to play hide-and-seek with all the important things in my life.”
A four-pack usually costs under $100. Kamel says the peace of mind they provide is priceless.
11. Magnetic Phone Wallet
This $49.99 accessory attaches to your iPhone and can be tracked if lost.
“If I lose it, it has find my technology built in just like your phone does. So, I can actually track this wallet if it ever gets lost.”
He likes how easy it is to attach or remove, depending on the situation. Plus, it helps him avoid carrying a bulky wallet.
12. TSA PreCheck
Costs $85 for five years (about $17 per year) and speeds up airport security.
“If you’re going to travel with me, you better have this.”
He points out that skipping long lines and keeping your shoes on is worth it. Even using it once at a packed airport can justify the cost.
13. Portable Tire Inflator
Great for roadside emergencies. Usually priced between $30 and $60.
“Now, could you contact roadside assistance from your insurance or call up AAA?
Sure. But by that point, it’s been 3 hours, and you’re so hungry you’re eating crusty Cheetos off the floorboard for sustenance.”
Kamel says having one in the trunk can turn a major hassle into a five-minute fix. Some models even work as portable fans or power banks.
14. Instacart Subscription
Convenient for busy families who want to skip store trips. About $100 annually.
“This makes a big difference for our family.”
He uses it to avoid impulse buys and save time during hectic weeks.
Some stores even offer in-store pricing through the platform, adding extra value.
Smart Spending = Better Living
Kamel wraps up his list by reminding viewers that these items aren’t meant for impulse buys.
Instead, they’re smart, practical purchases that solve everyday problems and can be planned for in a monthly budget.
“Modern luxuries that actually improve your life are the things worth planning for in your budget,” he says.
So before your next $100 splurge, consider whether the item actually adds value to your life.
If it does, it just might be one of the smartest “hires” you can make.