Best Things To Buy To Make Money – 16 Awesome Ideas To Try
With the high cost of living more people have side hustles than ever before. In fact, over 50% of people have some kind of side gig to make additional income.
Oftentimes, starting a new side hustle involves using some kind of equipment or tool to make money. And that's what this post is all about.
Today, I'm covering some of the best ways to make money with equipment and what you need to know before starting a new side gig.
What Equipment Can I Buy To Make Money?
What types of equipment can you buy to make money? Whether you’re looking to start a business, earn passive income, or do somewhere in between, there are several types of equipment that you can invest in that can yield returns. Here are some suggestions:
1. 3D Printer
Do you have an interest in design and love figuring out different creations? In this case, a 3D printer can help bring some of your creativity to life and help you earn extra money at the same time.
With a 3D printer, you can create and sell items like collectibles, jewelry, figurines, phone cases, keychains, home goods, and so much more. And my nephew is a high school senior and has actually been using his printer to make money creating tools for local businesses.
His biggest client is a cookie chef and he creates custom shapes of cookie cutters for her. It’s been a great side hustle to do from home while he finishes his diploma and allows him to explore his design skills as well.
2. Vending Machine
A vending machine is a perfect low-maintenance business idea and great piece of equipment to purchase if you're a fan of passive income.
Many businesses utilize vending machines for easy and affordable snacks and beverages. However, since most locations can't provide the machines or the items inside themselves, they contract outside individuals or companies to provide this service.
If you have the financial ability to invest in a machine or multiple machines, you may be able to provide vending services to create a regular stream of income. And data shows that vending machines can make about $300 to $600 per month.
In addition to purchasing or renting the equipment, you need to consider payment methods you accept, inventory costs, and labor to keep the machines stocked. You should also track your volume of sales and make sure the location is providing a worthwhile return on your investment.
3. Drone
If you have a love of technology, a drone might be an investment that can help you create a thriving business.
Drone photography is more popular than ever and there's an increase in demand for drone photographs and videos for a variety of types of events and businesses. Freelance operators obtain work for weddings, events, corporate clients, construction, real estate and more.
Just note that commercial drone guidelines and regulations can vary by area. Depending on where you live and will be operating your drone, you may need a remote pilot certificate. There may also be local restrictions on airspace and flight paths that you will need to be aware of.
4. An Electric Bike
Love being outdoors and getting exercise? An electric bike can help you take your love of biking to the next level.
Not only can you get out and about, but you can make money from your hobby by making deliveries for food delivery apps like Uber Eats, GrubHub and DoorDash.
All of these gig apps can easily pay $10 to $20 an hour depending on your market. And with a bike, it's a great way to get paid to workout and explore your city, all while getting paid.
These apps also let you deliver on your own schedule. Overall, this is probably one of the most lucrative pieces of equipment you can buy to make money.
5. Landscaping Equipment
Do you love working outdoors and love making yards and properties look their best?
Investing in landscaping equipment could help you put your skills to good use and help you make money as well. And this is a high-paying cash gig that's especially lucrative over summer.
Here are just some of the types of equipment that can be turned into money makers with some ambition and a bit of work:
- Lawnmower
- Weed trimmer
- Hedge and tree trimmers
- Chainsaw
- Snow plows and snow blowers
- Power washer
- Ladder (for gutter cleaning)
With this type of equipment, it is important to note that it is not passive income. Either you do the work or you need to hire someone to do it for you, which impacts your earnings.
6. Crypto Miners
When people think about crypto, they often think about investing. And digital assets are definitely a popular way to invest for income.
However, crypto and bitcoin mining machines are also a prime example of equipment you can buy to make money. These machines complete mathematical-based problems to help solve and validate blockchain transactions. In return, they gain Bitcoin in exchange for solving these puzzle.
You can read a guide from Fidelity that explains how crypto mining works if you're curious. But it's an exciting way to earn on autopilot while your miner runs.
Just note that leading crypto miners like the Bitmain Antminer can easily cost thousands of dollars. Electricity costs are also high, so you have to factor this into your earnings.
7. An RV
Recreational vehicles can be fun for individual, couple and family adventures. But they're also a very popular thing to rent out for money.
Some people rent out their RVs on platforms like Airbnb to attract the van-life crowd. Alternatively, you can list your RV for rent on marketplaces like RVShare to earn passive income.
This is a similar process to renting out a vehicle on Turo or Getaround. But an RV can fetch a much higher nightly cost.
8. Arcade Machine
Did you know that a coin operated arcade machine can be a great way to earn regular income?
If you know of a business where you can place this equipment such as a busy bar, restaurant, or shopping area, an investment in an arcade machine might be worth considering.
Keep an eye out at auctions, on Facebook marketplace, or at thrift stores for quality used equipment that might work for this type of venture.
While you will have the purchase costs, occasional maintenance and possibly rent for placing the machine, this can be a profitable venture especially if you have multiple pieces of equipment.
9. A Cargo Van
People always need things moved, but they don’t always have the vehicle to make that happen. By purchasing a cargo van, you can make money helping individuals, and supplement your income at the same time.
You can also make money with a cargo van if you're willing to hustle. For example, you could get paid to deliver packages for local businesses or gigs like Amazon Flex or DoorDash.
These are just a few examples. You could also use your cargo van to start a mobile pet-grooming business, or to be your business vehicle for a new cleaning business. Finally, renting out your vehicle on GoShare is also an option if you want to keep things more hands-off.
The point is, it's a versatile piece of equipment you can make money with. Just keep the upfront costs in mind when making your business plan. You also need to pay for fuel, insurance, and vehicle maintenance.
10. A Sticker Maker
Stickers are a hot trend and are being used everywhere. Kids and adults alike are using them to adorn laptops, backpacks, water bottles and more. Stickers are also a popular trend for businesses, as an inexpensive marketing tool to pass out to customers.
This means selling digital stickers or physical stickers is a unique opportunity. People commonly sell stickers on Etsy, Redbubble, and a variety of other online marketplaces.
Print on demand companies are one way you can get started. But if you want higher margins, one piece of equipment you can buy is a sticker maker. This lets you create the stickers yourself, and again, marketplaces like Etsy have massive potential to find buyers.
Extra Reading – How To Start An Etsy Printify Business.
11. DJ Equipment
Love music and engaging a crowd? With the right equipment, being a DJ can be a fun and profitable gig to make money in your spare time.
Here are just a few examples of gigs you can land:
- Weddings and anniversary parties
- Graduation parties
- Retirement parties
- Corporate events
- Grand openings and ribbon cuttings
- Corporate events
- Night clubs and parties
12. A Camera
Do you love taking photos and have an eye for the perfect shot? If so, investing in a camera can be a good way to start a side hustle.
Use your photo skills for photo sessions including events, weddings and senior photos. You can offer mini photo sessions for local families looking for updated shots and you can also provide photography for local businesses to use in marketing materials and on social media.
I’ve sold stock photos online and used my camera to earn money on Instagram by taking photos and videos for clients.
You can also use a camera to make money on YouTube. This is what Tom does with the WebMonkey channel, and it earns over $100 a day now in advertisement income.
13. Construction Equipment
While construction equipment is generally quite expensive, it's another prime example of equipment you can buy to make money.
For example, you could purchase a mini excavator and get paid to do landscaping for people. You can also rent out your machine to home owners who want to do landscaping or things like pool removals themselves.
14. Pool Tables
A lot of dive bars have pool tables in them that require a dollar or two to play a game. And you'd be amazed at how much money a pool table can make in the right location.
Data shows the a coin-operated pool table can make upwards of $20 a day, and likely more on Friday and Saturday night. This is a few hundred dollars a month in your pocket, and it's a business that runs itself.
15. A Laptop
It sounds obvious, but there are so many ways to make money with a laptop. So if you have an older machine and could use an upgrade, this is the idea for you.
For starters, you can always sell your skills online and make money with freelancing. Landing a remote, location independent job is also possible with a decent laptop.
You can also use a laptop to start a business. Both Tom and I make money as full-time bloggers, and all of our work is possible with just a computer!
16. Ice Cream Machine & Truck
One final idea of equipment that can make you money is an ice cream machine and truck.
This is a classic money-making idea, but it works. The same goes for starting a business like a food truck, although an ice cream truck is a bit simpler to manage and run.
Extra Reading – How To Make $1,000 In 3 Days.
Final Thoughts
Purchasing equipment to make money can require a financial investment, but with smart planning, creativity and a bit of hustle, you can turn this purchase into a profitable investment.
I personally have purchased several different types of side hustle equipment including phones, laptops, and cameras since I started to work online over a decade ago. Since then, I've turned a hobby into a full time income by starting a blog and getting into freelance writing.
When you are considering, “what equipment can I buy to make money”, the truth is that the opportunities are endless and only limited by your drive and motivation. So, best of luck with your next venture!
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