Have you noticed that the price of cigarettes have recently increased? As part of the tobacco excise, the price for a 25 pack of cigarettes increased by 12.5% on the 1st September. This means that a current pack of cigarettes (20s – 25s) can now range from $38 – $48.50, and for a pack a day smoker, this can become quite costly.
How much are you spending on cigarettes? Have you ever calculated the cost?
At $38 for a packet of cigarettes, the average smoker spends the following…
- 2 days: $76
- 4 days: $152
- one week: $266
- one month: $1064
- one year: $13,870!
As cigarette prices continue to increase, it’s important to reflect on how much you’re prepared to pay. Are you prepared to pay up to $50 per packet?
If you do smoke, think about how much you’re currently spending and whether it’s time to give quitting a go.
If you were to quit, what would you spend that money on?
For smokers who are keen to quit sooner than later (and with COVID-19 providing another great example to do so), it’s important that you treat yourself along the way with the money you’ve saved. Not sure what to buy – below are some examples.
With the money you’re saving…
- go on a holiday – a weekend away, a short getaway in Australia or when the borders open, travel overseas!
- go to the movies – GOLD CLASS style (once it’s safe to do so)
- treat yourself and your family to a nice dinner
- subscribe to your favourite magazine
- buy some new clothes/shoes/trainers
- purchase tickets to the footy/tennis/concert/theatre
- put it towards the mortgage/rent/utilities
- visit Lunar Park with your family, or travel to the Gold Coast and visit a number of theme parks
- put it towards a new car
- go on a fishing trip or cruise
- buy a new Ipad; apps; ITunes
- buy a new bike or scooter
- get a shoulder massage or pedicure
- indulge in a luxurious night in the city
- invest it in your children/grandchildren – spoil them with gifts and treats
What would you spend the money on? Create your own personal rewards’ list as this will help you stay motivated and remain smokefree in the long term.
If the increased cost has encouraged you to try to quit, but you’re not sure how to quit or what tips to try, read one of our previous posts for further details.
