Lifestyle

25 Everyday Items That Were Luxuries in the 70s

The 1970s were a decade of change – a time of disco fever, platform shoes, and a technological revolution that was just beginning. But while leisure suits and pet rocks became trendy staples, many of the conveniences we take for granted today were considered luxuries back then. Take a trip down memory lane and see how far we’ve come with these 25 everyday items that would have blown your parents’ minds in the 1970s:

Cell Phones

Forget bulky car phones requiring a special mount in your car, and limited range or frantic messages left on answering machines hoping someone would get back to you. The ability to carry a phone in your pocket and connect instantly with anyone, anywhere in the world, was a dream of the future in the 70s.

Cable TV

Gone are the days of limited channels with fuzzy reception and endless static. Cable TV in the 70s offered a mind-blowing selection of entertainment options, from a handful of broadcast networks to dedicated sports, movies, and even early versions of music video channels like MTV. While the selection might seem quaint compared to today’s offerings, cable TV was a revolutionary leap forward for a generation used to limited choices.

Home Computers

The personal computer revolution was just starting to take its first wobbly steps in the 70s. Early computers were expensive, clunky machines with limited processing power and required serious tech skills to operate. The idea of having a computer in every home, readily accessible for work, entertainment, or communication, would have seemed like science fiction back then.

Microwave Ovens

Defrosting frozen dinners for hours before you could even cook them? Not anymore! Microwave ovens were a game-changer in the 70s, offering a speedy and convenient way to heat up food, popcorn, or even beverages. This new technology saved families time and energy in the kitchen, allowing them to spend more time together.

Video Recorders (VCRs)

No more missing your favorite shows because you were stuck at work or school! VCRs allowed you to record and watch programs on your own schedule, a revolutionary concept back then. This opened up a whole new world of entertainment possibilities, from catching shows you missed to creating your own home movie collections.

Programmable Thermostats

Imagine manually adjusting the thermostat every few hours to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. Programmable thermostats, allowing for automatic temperature control throughout the day and night, were a luxury reserved for the wealthy or tech-savvy in the 70s. With programmable thermostats, homeowners could set different temperatures for sleeping, working, and entertaining, saving energy and money on their heating and cooling bills.

Dishwashers

Washing dishes by hand after every meal was the norm in many households during the 70s. While not unheard of, dishwashers were expensive appliances and not a standard feature in most kitchens. The drudgery of handwashing dishes was a time-consuming chore, and the luxury of a dishwasher would have freed up valuable time for families to spend on other activities.

Automatic Washers and Dryers

Laundry day used to be a much more laborious process in the 70s. Clothes washing machines were often top-loading agitator models that required more water and energy. Dryers, if present at all, could take hours to fully dry a load of clothes. With their various cycles and settings, automatic washers and dryers saved time and effort, making laundry day a less daunting task and freeing up time for other chores or leisure activities.

Instant Coffee

For a quick cup of joe in the morning rush, instant coffee was the go-to option in the 70s. Made from concentrated coffee grounds that dissolved in hot water, instant coffee offered a convenient alternative to traditional brewing methods that required time and attention. However, the taste often left something to be desired compared to freshly brewed coffee. The luxury of having a coffee maker that could brew a pot of coffee quickly and easily would have been a welcome change for many busy households.

Air Conditioners

Staying cool during hot summers often meant relying on fans and hoping for a breeze to come through the windows. Central air conditioning was a luxury reserved for the fortunate few in the 70s. Window AC units, while available, were noisy and inefficient. The ability to cool your entire home to a comfortable temperature with the flick of a switch would have been a dream come true for many families living in hot climates.

Video Game Consoles

Atari anyone? Early video game consoles like the Atari 2600, released in 1977, were a glimpse into the future of interactive entertainment. While the graphics by today’s standards seem primitive (think blocky characters and simple backgrounds), these consoles offered a new way to play games at home. Gathering around the TV with friends and family for a heated game of Pong or Space Invaders was a revolutionary concept compared to the more passive entertainment options of the time. These early consoles paved the way for today’s sophisticated gaming systems.

DVD Players and Blu-ray Players

Forget bulky VHS tapes that could wear out over time and required rewinding with a pencil to find your favorite scene. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, DVD players and Blu-ray players offered a superior viewing experience with sharper picture quality, better sound, and larger storage capacity. This meant you could fit more movies on a single disc and enjoy them with a higher level of detail. The ability to rent or buy movies on DVD or Blu-ray and watch them at home whenever you wanted was a luxury that movie lovers in the 70s could only dream of.

The Internet

The information age was just dawning in the 70s. With its vast resources and instant connectivity, the internet would have seemed like something out of a futuristic movie. Back then, information was primarily accessed through libraries, encyclopedias, and newspapers. The concept of having access to a global network of information at your fingertips, 24/7, would have been mind-blowing.

Streaming Services

Imagine having access to thousands of movies and TV shows at your fingertips, all for a monthly subscription fee. Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ have revolutionized how we watch entertainment. In the 70s, your entertainment options were limited to what was on broadcast television or what you could rent at the local video store. Streaming services offer a vast library of content, on-demand viewing, and the ability to watch on various devices, making them a convenient and affordable way to enjoy your favorite shows and movies.

GPS Navigation

Getting lost with a paper map and a vague sense of direction was common in the 70s. GPS navigation systems, introduced in the late 1980s and becoming widely available in the 2000s, provide turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates, making getting around a breeze. No more fumbling with maps or pulling over to ask for directions. GPS navigation has transformed the way we travel, offering peace of mind and increased efficiency.

Digital Cameras

Imagine lugging around bulky film cameras, waiting impatiently for your precious memories to be developed at the photo store, only to be met with blurry images or accidental double exposures. Digital cameras, introduced in the early 1990s, revolutionized how we capture memories. With a digital camera, you could see your photos instantly on a screen, delete unwanted ones, and take endless pictures without worrying about film costs. The ability to edit photos on your computer and share them easily online has further transformed photography, making it a more accessible and interactive experience for everyone.

Flat-Screen TVs

Heavy, boxy televisions dominated living rooms in the 70s. These behemoths took up valuable space, had limited screen sizes, and offered a less-than-stellar viewing experience. The sleek design and incredible picture quality of modern flat-screen TVs would have been a sight to behold for people in the 70s. Flat-screen TVs come in a variety of sizes to fit any space, offer stunning high-definition resolution, and can be mounted on walls, freeing up valuable floor space. Whether you’re watching a movie, playing video games, or catching the latest sporting event, the immersive viewing experience offered by flat-screen TVs is a far cry from the bulky sets of the past.

Smartphones

A device that combines a phone, camera, computer, entertainment center, and GPS navigator all in one? Smartphones, which have become ubiquitous in modern society, would have been unimaginable in the 70s. These powerful pocket-sized computers allow us to connect with anyone instantly, access information on the fly, capture and share photos and videos, navigate unfamiliar places, and stay entertained with games, music, and streaming services. The convenience and versatility of smartphones have fundamentally changed the way we live, work, and communicate.

Home Security Systems

Peace of mind and remote monitoring were luxuries reserved for the wealthy in the 70s. Basic home security systems often consisted of simple alarms or window decals that might deter casual break-ins. Modern home security systems offer a comprehensive approach to security, with features like door and window sensors, motion detectors, and even security cameras that can be monitored remotely from your smartphone. These systems give homeowners greater peace of mind, allowing them to check in on their property and receive alerts if there’s a potential security breach.

Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Escape the hustle and bustle of the world with the touch of a button. Noise-canceling headphones were a futuristic dream in the 70s. Early sets offered passive noise reduction by blocking out some external sounds, but they weren’t very effective. Noise-canceling headphones use technology to actively reduce unwanted background noise, creating a peaceful oasis of quiet no matter where you are. Whether you’re trying to focus on work on a crowded airplane or simply want to relax with your favorite music without distractions, these revolutionary headphones offer a level of auditory escape that would have been unimaginable in the 70s.

20 Unbelievable Places Boomers Used to Smoke

It’s hard to fathom today, but there was once a time when smoking was as ubiquitous as smartphones are now. Boomers lit their cigarettes almost anywhere—from the privacy of their homes to the most unlikely public spaces. This fascinating journey back to a smoke-filled era offers a vivid glimpse into a world where “no smoking” signs were as rare as a disconnected cell phone. Let’s explore 20 unbelievable places where boomers used to enjoy their tobacco.

In Movie Theaters

Can you believe it? Boomers used to enjoy their cigarettes right in the cinema seats. While the screen lit up with the latest drama or comedy, the audience contributed their own smoke effects, making movie nights an immersive experience. Imagine the silhouette of smoke rising against the projector light!

On Airplanes

Five decades ago, the friendly skies were filled with more than just clouds; they were clouded with cigarette smoke. Flyers were often seen enjoying a smoke as they crossed time zones, with ashtrays built into the armrests. It’s fascinating how nonchalantly people used to light up at 30,000 feet!

Hospitals

Smoking in hospitals was commonplace, with doctors and nurses joining patients for a drag. You could find ashtrays in waiting rooms and sometimes even near patient beds. It’s a stark contrast to the health-conscious environment we expect in medical facilities today.

Grocery Stores

Imagine shopping for vegetables and cigarettes at the same time. Boomers could smoke while perusing aisles, leaving a trail of smoke between the produce and frozen sections. It must have made for some interesting flavor profiles!

High School Classrooms

Even educational environments weren’t off-limits. Teachers might light a cigarette while discussing Shakespeare or calculus, filling the room with more than just knowledge. It certainly added a different layer to school-day memories!

Buses and Trains

Imagine hopping on public transit where the air was not only stuffy but also smoky. Commuters used to enjoy their cigarettes or cigars during their travels, filling buses and train carriages with a lingering fog. Each journey was a communal experience of sharing both space and smoke. Quite the social smoke session, wouldn’t you say?

At the Bank

Picture handling your banking needs while surrounded by smoke. Customers and tellers alike would often light up, enveloping the space in a haze. This smoky backdrop to financial transactions added a rather pungent layer to the already stressful atmosphere of bank queues. You’d think the “loan rates” were choking enough!

Elevators

Short rides in an elevator were often clouded with smoke, as if the lift was a small mobile smoking room. Being stuck between floors meant inhaling more than just the tension of close quarters—there was no escape until the doors opened. That really elevated the smoking experience!

Post Offices

Mailing a letter or package often came with a complimentary whiff of tobacco. Both postal workers and customers contributed to the smoky ambiance, turning the post office into a much less breathable space. Sending smoke signals suddenly takes on a new meaning!

Maternity Wards

Strangely enough, even maternity wards were not exempt from the smoke-filled norm. It was common for new fathers to light a celebratory cigar right in the ward. Talk about a smoky start to new life!

Restaurants

Eating out was frequently a smoky affair. Despite having designated smoking areas, the boundaries between smoke and clear air were often blurred. The mixture of food aromas and cigarette smoke created a unique dining atmosphere that’s hard to swallow nowadays.

Libraries

Libraries, the sanctuaries of silence and study, often had a haze of cigarette smoke hanging over the readers. Patrons could browse books and puff away, making the library a hotspot for both knowledge seekers and smoke rings. Quite the literary atmosphere!

Sporting Events

Fans at sporting events didn’t have to miss a single play to enjoy a smoke. Whether it was a chilly outdoor stadium or a covered arena, the air was often thick with both cheers and smoke. Pass the lighter along with the peanuts!

Concert Halls

Concerts were once soundtracked not just by music but by the constant lighting of cigarettes. Audiences enjoyed live performances enveloped in a smoky haze, adding a visceral layer to the already electrifying atmosphere of live music.

Retail Stores

Imagine trying on clothes in a boutique where the air was as filled with smoke as it was with the latest fashion trends. Shoppers and staff smoked freely, ensuring that every garment came with a hint of nicotine. A truly “fashionable” smoke screen!

Beauty Salons

Beauty salons weren’t just about hair sprays and perms; they also doubled as smoking areas. Clients and stylists could smoke while discussing hairstyles or the latest gossip, blending beauty treatments with cigarette breaks. Talk about smoking hot looks!

Museums

Even museums, those bastions of culture and history, were not immune to the era of indoor smoking. Visitors could contemplate art while contributing to the ambient smoke, perhaps adding a literal layer to the aging of artworks. Viewing art through a haze—quite the perspective!

Corporate Offices

Corporate decisions and business meetings often took place in smoke-filled rooms, where executives negotiated and strategized through clouds of smoke. Each office could easily double as a smoker’s lounge, making networking a bit more asphyxiating.

Beaches

Sunbathing and smoking were common pairings at the beach. Vacationers would alternate dips in the ocean with drags on their cigarettes, contributing to a slightly more polluted seaside experience—not exactly the fresh air one hopes for at the beach!

Homes

Homes were not just family gathering spots; they were all-out smoking zones. From living rooms to even bedrooms, adults smoked freely, making indoor air quality reminiscent of a bar rather than a family space. Every family visit was a smoky affair—truly a “warm” welcome!

20 Vintage Car Models That Boomers Dreamed of Driving

Vintage cars hold a special place in the hearts of Baby Boomers, the generation that witnessed the golden age of automotive innovation and style. For them, sleek sports cars and luxurious sedans are not just modes of transportation; they represent a nostalgic era of cool vibes and freedom. Let’s take a leisurely drive down memory lane and explore 20 vintage car models that Boomers dreamed of driving. Buckle up; it’s going to be a stylish ride!

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air

The 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is practically synonymous with the 1950s era of chrome, fins, and flashy colors. Beloved for its iconic tail fins and a grille that smiled at you like a movie star, the Bel Air was the dream car for many young folks back then. Imagine cruising down the boulevard with the top down, the radio playing Chuck Berry. Wouldn’t that be something?

1964 Ford Mustang

When the Ford Mustang hit the scene in 1964, it wasn’t just a car but a revolution on wheels. With its long hood and short rear deck, the Mustang defined the new “pony car” class. It’s no wonder it caught the fancy of practically every teenager and young adult at the time. That Mustang could really kick up some dust!

1969 Dodge Charger

The 1969 Dodge Charger is a legend, especially among those who loved their cars fast and loud. Known for its role in “The Dukes of Hazzard,” the Charger symbolized American muscle. With a V8 engine that roared like a lion, this car was a true powerhouse on the road.

1963 Volkswagen Beetle

Affectionately known as the Bug, the 1963 Volkswagen Beetle was cherished for its unique shape and economical price. Regardless of the weather, it’s the kind of car you could always rely on. Simple, sturdy, and oh-so-lovable, the Beetle was a favorite among the counterculture movements. Plus, who could forget those cute curvy lines?

1961 Jaguar E-Type

Enzo Ferrari described the 1961 Jaguar E-Type as “the most beautiful car ever made.” With its sleek lines and high performance, owning one was like holding the keys to an art gallery. It represented a blend of beauty and engineering that few other cars could match. Talk about a dream car!

1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS

You could hear one coming from miles away, just from the growl of this vehicle. The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS was a beast on the road, with engine options that made it one of the most powerful muscle cars of its time. Known for its broad, aggressive stance, the Chevelle SS was no ordinary car; it was a statement.

1959 Cadillac Eldorado

Nothing quite says luxury like the 1959 Cadillac Eldorado. With tail fins that seemed to stretch out forever and enough chrome to blind you on a sunny day, the Eldorado was the epitome of 1950s glamour. Driving it was like floating on a cloud of prestige and luxury. Quite the dream, right?

1965 Shelby Cobra

The 1965 Shelby Cobra combined British chassis design with American muscle power. It was famed for being dangerously fast and strikingly beautiful. A true hybrid of raw power and sleek design, the Cobra was a dream for speed enthusiasts and race drivers alike. It’s a ride that practically begged to be driven hard and fast.

1971 Pontiac GTO

The 1971 Pontiac GTO is often credited with starting the muscle car craze. With its aggressive styling and powerful performance, the GTO demanded attention. It’s no wonder it was nicknamed “The Goat”; it could really jump at the lights!

1962 Ferrari 250 GTO

Speaking of icons, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO is a name that resonates with any car enthusiast. Known for its stunning performance and breathtaking aesthetics, this Ferrari was a masterpiece, and there was no denying it. Owning one was like having a Van Gogh parked in your garage. That’s some high-octane art.

1967 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia

The Karmann Ghia, a sleeker and more aerodynamic relative of the beloved Beetle, offered car enthusiasts a touch of elegance with reliable Volkswagen mechanics underneath. Its smooth contours and low profile made it a less obvious choice for collectors but a favorite for those in the know. Isn’t there something irresistible about understated beauty?

1960 Aston Martin DB4

Imagine this: you’re behind the wheel of a 1960 Aston Martin DB4, feeling like royalty as you navigate the twists and turns of a foggy British countryside. This car didn’t just perform; it did so with unmatched elegance. To own a DB4 was to own a piece of automotive nobility—fast, fierce, and forever in vogue.

1958 Chevrolet Impala

The 1958 Impala took everything great about the fifties’ automotive design and wrapped it up into one iconic package. With its distinctive tailfins and a trio of taillights, it screamed style. There’s a reason these cars are still celebrated at classic shows—they represent a time when cars were as much about personality as they were about transportation.

1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

If ever there was a car that looked like it was speeding even while parked, it was the 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. Its fire-breathing “screaming chicken” hood decal promised power and rebellion. This ride was actual fire on wheels, ready to burn rubber and take names.

1968 Toyota 2000GT

The Toyota 2000GT emerged as Japan’s first foray into the high-performance sports car market, challenging European dominance with its meticulous engineering and sleek design. Rare and revered, this vehicle marked a pivotal moment in automotive history, showcasing that innovation could come from anywhere in the world.

1956 Ford Thunderbird

The 1956 Thunderbird, affectionately known as the T-Bird, is a darling of American automotive culture. It melded luxury with performance, creating a niche for personal luxury cars. With its removable hardtop and distinctive design, it wasn’t just a mode of transport but a lifestyle choice. We can already see the envious glances as one cruises by in this timeless classic.

1966 Alfa Romeo Spider

Driving an Alfa Romeo Spider was like composing a symphony; every gear shift and every turn felt like a note in a grand musical arrangement. This Italian masterpiece was as much about the joy of driving as it was about the destination. The Spider was a driver’s delight, perfect for a spirited Sunday drive through the hills.

1972 BMW 2002

Compact, punchy, and incredibly fun to drive, the 1972 BMW 2002 was a revelation. It combined practicality with a zest for life, making it a favorite among those who loved both city commuting and spirited weekend jaunts. This car didn’t just move you; it moved with you—anticipating every turn, every stop with perfect precision.

1963 Studebaker Avanti

The Studebaker Avanti was like a concept car come to life, with its avant-garde styling that challenged the status quo. Its daring design and potent performance made it a beacon of American innovation during a time of automotive conformity. Driving an Avanti wasn’t just about getting from point A to B; it was about making a statement.

1969 MGB Roadster

Hop into a 1969 MGB Roadster, and you’re instantly transported to a simpler, more adventurous time. This car was the quintessential British sports car, affordable and stylish, perfect for wind-in-your-hair drives down narrow country lanes or along the coast. It’s the type of ride that makes any day feel like a vacation and every drive an escape.