Covert candy at the movies
And now for the most pressing money-saving issue of the day. With the squeeze on your wallet do you sneak candy into the movies? Or do you fork over the $3 to $5 for boxes of Milk Duds and Jujubes?
Does sneaking treats makes one frugal or cheap, Frugal Dad asks. The question taps into how we judge how others spend their money.
I'm a sneaker. I mean, I'm already paying $10 for the ticket and perhaps a few dollars for parking. I could have waited for the movie to come out on DVD or found a sketchy copy online. So am I a tightwad for buying my movie candy at 7-Eleven beforehand - or a smart spender?
10 Comments
Leave a comment
About The Bargain Hunter
Daily News staff writer Julia Scott loves to find bargains on everything from groceries to Gucci. Her tips will help keep your hard earned cash where it belongs - in your pocket.
My Facebook Profile
While I don't think there is no issue from an ethical standpoint, the question of whether to bring, or not to bring, your own treats to the movies is a bit low on the "should I, or shouldn't I" totem pole.
What I mean to say is that I see no problem with bringing your own.
Bringing enough to sell to other patrons: Over the line.
But bringing enough to save the exorbitant charges at theater concession stands? Not a problem, I think.
The theaters could always lower prices on concessions. The convenience alone would get many if not most "bring their own" types to just buy at the theater, and the theaters would probably make it up in sheer volume.
That's the theory, anyway.
often you can score those movie style candy boxes for $1 at walgreens or sometimes even 88 cents at rite-aid.
I think that it is fine to bring your own, considering it takes almost as much time to stand in line at the concession stands as it does to get to the movies! I was at a local valley theater last Saturday evening, and stood in line for almost 20 minutes! Watching the young lady behind the counter run back and forth for each order...the whole thing was a waste of energy. Someone (perhaps one of the fast food companies?) should take over and get them organized and give some lessons in efficiency! It would mean more sales for the theaters and happier customers! I might even consider buying more there.
I do the same thing. I can't see myself paying $3-$5 for something I shouldn't be eating in the first place.
I rarely eat candy or popcorn at the movies, and when I just haaave to have that sweetooth or popcorn fix, I curse myself for not anticipating my craving and bringing a snack in with me! Boyfriend and I spent about $15 on movie snacks a month ago, and that's just a waste of money, in this economy recession we're in! Unless it's alcohol (21+ theaters at select cinemas around town...), I won't be buying any more concessions at the movies!
With the price of movie tickets and the insane prices they charge at the theater, it makes sense. If they want people to buy their snacks make them a reasonable price.
I really miss your picture at the head of the bargain hunter. your pictures makes me feel like you personally at looking out for all of us. bring it back!!! or at least ask your readers to vote...
Dear Dad:
I am so disappointed in you. Just because you paid between $9-12.00 for a movie ticket. That is no reason to buy candy at 7-11.
Candy perfect to sneak into a movie theater is so much cheaper at the 99 Cent Store.
Best,
Mr.Cheap Date
I think the water bottles are over $3.00 - that's what I bring in, I buy the hot dog there. BUT I do think they are cheating people and would sell more at the concession stand if they charged a "fair" price.
Hard to find a healthy, nutritious snack in the Movie theater.
I brought in some turkey/w cheese, nuts and dried fruit...