There are many exciting things that come with landing a new job. New co-workers, new schedules and perhaps most importantly that extra income.

It’s easy to blow through your first few pay packets with a newfound sense of financial independence and social autonomy, especially if you’re young and a fresh graduate.

Whether you decide to go down the responsible path of saving and investing in the future or spending more spontaneously, the options are endless.

Here are the six most popular purchases people make with their first pay packets.

1. Savings account

Saving money is one of the smartest decisions you can make at any age. No matter where you start, putting money away for the future allows for more freedom to do desired activities later.

Everyone’s goals vary; some choose to begin saving early for retirement while others use their earnings to travel or purchase a home.

Choose a cause that closely aligns to your goals and you’ll have enough money saved up in no time at all to live as you wish.

If you’re more inclined to save, there’s a lot of amazing tips to make sure you stay financially savvy.

2. New furniture

It’s likely that when someone gets their first job, they also get their own place to live for the first time.

In this case, furnishing a newly leased apartment may be at the top of their list. Luckily, there are options out there for purchasing discounted furniture.

3. Flight tickets

Travelling over the weekend can be a special way to relieve stress. Essentially, you’re buying much more than a plane ticket when you vacation to interesting places.

Creating new memories help make time off more meaningful and you’ll have plenty of stories to bring back to the office.

Don’t forget, there are also other ways to travel.

Buy a bus ticket, hop a ride on a ferry or simply head to the nearest nature reserve for relaxing sightseeing to keep costs at a minimum without sacrificing gratification.

4. Transportation

Public transportation is a great way to get around, but sometimes it’s not easily accessible.

Bikes or scooters can help make getting to local spots and transportation hubs around town a lot easier.

If you’re unable to travel by public transportation or prefer moving at your own pace, newly available funds can constitute the purchase of a new vehicle.

Having your own car can also help you earn extra cash with ridesharing. If you’re looking for a side hustle, this may be the route to go.

5. Upgrade electronics

Upgraded electronics can aid in productivity and job performance. However, too much distracting time on cell phones or laptops can impact your work ethic.

Stay on track with helpful productivity apps that ensure you’re using your time wisely.

6. Cooking utensils

Cooking is a skill that everyone learns at their own pace. For many, culinary expertise begins to flourish when they begin living on their own.

Young adults entering the workforce may need to purchase enough cookware to stock a small kitchen and begin developing a taste for homemade food.

The upside? Cooking at home helps people save money in the long run.

Before long, the bills you stocked up from equipping your kitchen will pay for themselves instead of ordering out to eat every night.

This article first appeared in jobstore.com

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