18 Things That Used to Be Free but Cost a Fortune Today
This list highlights everyday things that were once totally free but now come with a surprising price tag.
- Daisy Montero
- 5 min read
Some of the most basic things in life used to be completely free, and no one thought twice about it. Fast forward to today, and those same things now cost more than anyone expected — sometimes a small fortune. This list dives into 18 everyday things that quietly became big business.
1. Drinking Water Used to Come from the Tap
Ahmed akacha on Wikimedia Commons
You could once turn on the faucet and get clean drinking water without giving it a second thought. Bottled water was rare and usually reserved for emergencies or road trips. Now, people spend hundreds of dollars a year on something that used to come free with the kitchen sink.
2. Checking a Bag on a Flight
Allen Boguslavsky on Wikimedia Commons
Airlines used to include checked bags in the cost of a regular ticket, no questions asked. Over time, luggage became one of the first things to get unbundled from your fare. Now, even a single suitcase can add a hefty fee to your trip.
3. Watching TV Without a Subscription
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TV was once free if you had an antenna or a basic cable setup. Today, streaming services have taken over, and each one charges its own monthly rate. To watch your favorite shows, you often need to juggle three or more subscriptions.
4. Plastic Grocery Bags
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Grocery stores used to give out plastic bags like candy. It was normal to walk out with a dozen bags and not think twice about it. Now, many stores charge per bag and encourage customers to bring their own.
5. ATM Withdrawals at Other Banks
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Getting cash from any ATM used to be quick and painless. These days, using an out-of-network machine often comes with a service fee plus another charge from your own bank. A simple cash withdrawal can now cost more than a snack.
6. Parking on the Street
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Street parking used to be free in most areas, even in busy cities. Now, parking meters and mobile apps dominate the sidewalks. If you park in the wrong spot or forget to pay, expect a fine that hurts more than the hourly rate.
7. Using Public Restrooms
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Public restrooms were once just that — public and free to use. Today, some places require a purchase or even a small fee just to access the bathroom. Finding a clean, no-cost restroom is now a rare treat.
8. Attending Public School Events
Alejandra Montenegro on Wikimedia Commons
Parents used to attend school plays, concerts, and sports games without paying a dime. Now, many schools charge admission to help cover costs. Even cheering for your child has started to come with a price tag.
9. Accessing News and Articles Online
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Online news used to be completely open for anyone with an internet connection. These days, paywalls block much of the content unless you subscribe. Staying informed now means reaching for your wallet.
10. Listening to Music on the Go
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Listening to the radio or playing CDs never required a subscription. Today, most people use streaming apps that either cost money or bombard you with ads. To enjoy your favorite songs interruption-free, you have to pay up.
11. Playing Mobile Games
RDNE Stock project on Wikimedia Commons
Many mobile games started off as fully free and fun. Now, they are loaded with in-app purchases that make progress difficult unless you spend money. What once was casual entertainment has turned into a costly habit.
12. Attending Community Events
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Local fairs and town festivals were once simple gatherings open to all. Today, you are likely to find admission charges, ride tickets, and high food prices. Even small-town fun has become a pricey outing for families.
13. Getting a Paper Bill in the Mail
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Paper bills used to be a standard part of life. Many companies now charge a small fee just to send one to your home. It is often cheaper to go digital, even if you prefer a hard copy.
14. Calling Customer Service
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Customer service was once available to everyone at no cost. Now, some companies charge for premium phone support or push you through automated systems that go in circles. Getting actual help has become something you have to pay for or wait long hours for.
15. Using Hotel Amenities
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Hotel stays once included extras like Wi-Fi, the gym, and continental breakfast. Now, those same perks are often considered add-ons that cost more. The base price might look reasonable, but the final bill tells another story.
16. Attending a Wedding
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Being a wedding guest used to mean showing up in your best clothes and enjoying the event. Today, many weddings involve travel, hotel stays, and expensive gift registries. Attending someone’s big day can easily drain your weekend budget.
17. Downloading Apps
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Apps once came fully functional from the moment you downloaded them. These days, many are free to install but charge for basic features inside. Even note-taking or to-do list apps can come with monthly fees.
18. Using GPS Navigation
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GPS used to be part of your car or phone without any strings attached. Now, some apps charge for voice directions, offline access, or real-time traffic updates. Even getting from point A to point B has become another way to spend money.