I bought a new-to-me car in November, and I paid cash. This makes November easily the highest-spend month of 2024.
- The Elantra had a number of issues requiring costly repair. I needed new shocks ($1,500 estimate), several fluid changes, new headlights, and there was something wrong causing the car to overheat. I could have easily spent $3,000 to get the car back to good health. I chose to trade it in for something newer instead.
- I bought a 2023 Kia Sportage from Hertz. I paid $19,270 less a $350 discount for Hertz Gold Star loyalty and $2,500 trade-in allowance.
- Why an SUV? We have a oddly graded driveway and needed a car with higher ground clearance. The Elantra would scrape the driveway unless you entered/excited the driveway at an awkward angle.
- I renewed the AMEX Platinum ($695 annual fee) but only after scoring a 25,000 point retention reward (worth at least $250).
- Spending was lower on Food. I worked an 18 day meeting in November and my client covered my meals. Reimbursed Job Expense of over $1,000 is what I spent on food. That will be a negative number in December when I am paid.
Fun
We love adventures. Spending on experiences makes us better humans.
- Following our October cruise where I won $2K+, Carnival offered a free cruise. I chose a 12 Day Scandinavia and Baltic cruise departing London in July.
- I splurged on our flights. I had a companion certificate on British Airways along with a bunch of miles from when I opened a BA Credit Card. The certificate had to be used before the end of next year. I booked lie-flat seats for two going to London and upgraded seats on the return flight. Even with redeeming miles and a companion certificate, British Airways charges ridiculous fees. I spend $1,660 on fees. The tickets would have cost over $7,000 if I had paid cash.
November Expenses: $26,822
$21,011 Auto (service, gas, insurance, AAA, etc.)
$705 Bank Fees (annual fees on credit cards)$41 Clothing/ Personal Care
$2,188 Fun (vacations, movies, gambling, alcohol, concert tickets)
$263 Food
$655 Health and Dental
$658 Household/Home Repairs
$112 Unreimbursed Job Expense
$1,039 Reimbursed Job Expense
$0 Interest Expense
$20 Miscellaneous (cat sitter, gifts)
$0 Taxes
$129 Utilities
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