12 Things Americans Consider a Normal Family Purchase That Brits Would Have to Seriously Think About

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Ever wondered what everyday items Americans buy that might leave Brits scratching their heads? From huge cars to extra fridges, there are some purchases that are pretty standard in American households but might seem a bit excessive elsewhere. Let’s take a closer look at some of these common American buys and see why they’re not as typical in British homes.

1. A Large SUV or Pickup Truck

In America, bigger often means better, especially when it comes to cars. A large SUV or a pickup truck is a staple in many households. These vehicles are not only used for getting around; they’re handy for all the stuff Americans tend to haul — from sports equipment to big shopping hauls. Plus, with sprawling suburbs and less efficient public transport in many areas, a big, comfy vehicle makes life easier. In Britain, where roads are narrower and fuel costs a lot, running such a large vehicle would make most people think twice.

2. A Second Refrigerator

Why have one fridge when you could have two? That’s a common thought in many American homes. The second fridge often finds its place in the garage or basement, packed with extra drinks, food for big gatherings, or bulk purchases. It’s all about convenience and having plenty of supplies on hand. In Britain, where homes are generally smaller and weekly shopping is common due to closer grocery stores, a second fridge might seem unnecessary and a space hog.

3. A Home Gym Setup

With busy lives and a focus on health and fitness, many Americans set up a gym right in their home. This could be anything from a few weights and a treadmill to a full-blown fitness center. It’s great for squeezing in workouts without commuting to a gym. In the UK, with its denser living conditions and smaller homes, dedicating space to a home gym is a luxury many can’t afford or justify.

4. A Riding Lawn Mower

Love a manicured lawn but hate the effort? Enter the riding lawn mower, a favorite for sizable American yards. It makes maintaining large green expanses much easier and faster. In Britain’s typically smaller garden spaces, a riding mower would be overkill, not to mention it would barely have room to turn around!

5. A Boat in Communities Where Boating is Common

Living near water? In many American communities, having a boat is almost as usual as having a car. It’s great for leisure and a bit of adventure on weekends. But in the UK, where such hobbies could be seen as a luxury due to higher costs and less favorable weather, owning a boat requires more thought and isn’t as casual a purchase.

6. A Camper or RV

For road trip enthusiasts, an RV or camper is an essential part of life in the US. It offers freedom to explore the vast landscapes without worrying about accommodation. In Britain, where space is more confined and roads are narrower, maneuvering a large RV would be more challenging, making it a less common sight.

7. A Large Backyard Playset

Got kids? In the US, it’s quite common to have a large playset in the backyard, equipped with swings, slides, and climbing areas. It’s perfect for keeping children entertained at home. In the UK, public parks are more commonly relied upon for play due to smaller private outdoor spaces.

8. An Enormous Outdoor Grill

Barbecuing is almost a cultural phenomenon in the US, with many opting for large, sophisticated grilling setups in their backyards. These make hosting large gatherings a breeze. In the compact British gardens, a smaller, more portable barbecue is more practical and just as effective.

9. A Generator in Storm-Prone Areas

In areas where storms frequently knock out power, owning a generator is common in American homes. It keeps the essentials running during outages. While the UK has its share of bad weather, widespread power outages are less common, so generators are seen more as a precaution than a necessity.

10. A Full-Size Freezer for the Garage

Another popular American garage addition is the full-size freezer. It’s ideal for storing bulk buys and make-ahead meals, reducing the number of shopping trips. This concept is less appealing in Britain where shops are more accessible and homes have less space to spare.

11. Several Televisions for Different Rooms

In many American homes, it’s common to have a TV in several rooms, so everyone can watch what they like without a fight for the remote. In UK homes, which are generally smaller, having multiple TVs can seem excessive when space is at a premium.

12. Enough Outdoor Furniture to Furnish a Small British Flat

Love lounging outside? Americans often deck out their patios or decks with loads of outdoor furniture, making it a full-fledged living area for sunny days. This level of outdoor furnishing is less common in Britain, where unpredictable weather and smaller outdoor spaces make less elaborate setups more sensible.