Inflation Basket 2024: What’s Hot, What’s Not, and Why We're Eyeing a Cheaper Life Abroad

Every year, the inflation basket gets a little makeover, swapping out the old for the new, and giving us a peek into what’s trending in our daily lives. It’s like getting an annual update on what’s filling our shopping baskets—and what’s been left behind.

The 2024 edition is no different, offering some pretty interesting insights into how we’re living, cooking, and entertaining ourselves. And as I take a look at what’s in and out this year, it’s hard not to draw a connection to why so many of us, especially those of us on the cusp of a big life change, are considering packing our bags for a more affordable lifestyle abroad—say, somewhere in Southeast Asia.

What’s In?

Let’s kick things off with the air fryer—because who isn’t obsessed with this thing right now? It’s fast, it’s healthy, and it’s the kitchen gadget everyone swears by. It’s no wonder it’s made its way into the inflation basket. With people looking to cook healthier meals without spending hours in the kitchen, the air fryer is definitely a sign of the times.

Cassette Tapes Yep, you read that right. Just like vinyl, cassette tapes are making a quirky comeback. Whether it’s the nostalgia factor or the fun of rewinding with a pencil, tapes are having a moment. It’s a bit of a head-scratcher, but also a reminder that sometimes, the old-school stuff just feels... right.

Protein Bars If there’s one thing that’s become a staple in my bag (and maybe yours too), it’s a good protein bar. With everyone on the go, and fitness taking center stage in our lives, these handy snacks have become essential. Their spot in the inflation basket just goes to show how our busy, health-conscious lifestyles are shaping our spending habits.

Almond Milk Plant-based everything is still going strong, and almond milk has become a must-have. Whether it’s for your morning coffee, cereal, or smoothie, this dairy-free alternative is now a grocery staple. Its inclusion in the inflation basket is proof that the shift towards plant-based diets is here to stay.

Reusable Coffee Cups Sustainability is in, and so are reusable coffee cups. With more people shunning single-use plastics, these cups are not just an eco-friendly choice but a fashionable one too. They’ve made it into the inflation basket as a sign that we’re all trying to do our bit for the planet—plus, who doesn’t love a bit of stylish eco-consciousness?

What’s Out?

Face Masks Remember when you couldn’t leave the house without one? Face masks were the defining symbol of the pandemic, but as life returns to some semblance of normal, they’re no longer a daily necessity for many. Their exit from the inflation basket signals that, at least in terms of shopping habits, the pandemic is fading into the rearview mirror.

Futon Beds

Futons had their moment, but now they’re on the way out. Maybe it’s because we’re investing in more comfortable (and permanent) sleeping solutions, or maybe it’s a sign that fewer of us are playing host as much as we used to. Either way, it’s out with the futon and in with... well, something a bit comfier, I hope.

Frozen Pizzas

I know, I know—this one might sting a bit. But with more people leaning into healthier eating and fresh meals (hello, air fryer), frozen pizzas are falling out of favor. It’s a shift towards cooking at home, maybe even cooking together as a family, and frozen pizzas just don’t fit into that picture anymore.

Home Baking Kits

Remember the banana bread craze? That was fun while it lasted, but it seems like we’re over it now. Home baking kits, which saw a huge surge during lockdowns, are no longer flying off the shelves. As life speeds up again, people are looking for quicker, easier ways to enjoy treats without all the flour-covered mess.

Why It All Makes Sense

So, what does all of this say about us? Well, it’s clear that we’re moving towards healthier, more convenient, and more sustainable living. But as these trends shape our spending here at home, they also make it glaringly obvious why so many of us are dreaming of a simpler, more affordable life somewhere else—somewhere like Southeast Asia.

Life abroad, especially in places where the cost of living is significantly lower, offers a chance to escape the endless cycle of buying the latest gadgets, stocking up on health foods, and trying to keep up with the Joneses. It’s about slowing down, enjoying what you have, and not feeling the constant pressure to keep up with trends. Plus, when everyday essentials cost a fraction of what they do here, it’s no wonder the idea of moving abroad is so appealing.

So, while the inflation basket gives us a glimpse into what’s hot and what’s not, it also highlights why a more affordable, less trend-driven lifestyle abroad is on so many of our minds. After all, why spend a fortune on the latest kitchen gadgets and health trends when you could be enjoying fresh, local produce in your new home halfway around the world?