We all dream of our children going to college, until we see the price. Then their pursuit of higher education quickly turns into a nightmare. According to CollegeData, it cost $22,826 a year [1] to attend an in-state public college — and that doesn't include all the extras [2]. Now, we would never stop our children from furthering their education. But after seeing all the things we could buy with that lump sum, we may encourage them to try for a scholarship before dipping into our funds.
A Hot Ride
Cruise around town in a Mercedes Benz CLA-Class [3].
The Ultimate Coffee Run
Keep yourself caffeinated with 5,570 Venti lattes [4] from Starbucks — less if you get a flavor shot.
The Latest Technology
Get the most out of your long wait for the iPhone 6s, and get 44 devices [5].
A Pack of Bears
Satisfy your sweet tooth with 8,709 pounds of gummy bears [6].
Unlimited Leak Protection
With 54,960 diapers [7], you could share some with a friend.
The Bag Lady
Why buy one Chanel quilted bag when you can buy three [8]?
Celebratory Champagne
With 130 bottles of Dom Pérignon [9], you can celebrate every life moment, whether it's big or small.
An Adventure Abroad
Treat the family to a European excursion with four first-class [10], round-trip tickets to Italy.
A Bit of Bling
Add a little sparkle to your life with Tiffany's yellow diamond ring [11].
A Healthy Body
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, you could provide 67 people with a month of health insurance [12] or one person with 67 months (i.e., five years) of coverage.
Some Writing Utensils
With 251,900 pens [13], you won't have to worry about people giving them back.
A House in Paradise
Move to the Philippines, and buy some beachside property [14].
Something to Chew On
Keep your breath minty fresh constantly with 1,100 packs of gum [15].
A Better Burger
Skip McDonald's, and head to Fleur where you can enjoy the infamous Fleurburger 5000 [16] — four different times!
A Disney Adventure
The only way any parent would spend 18 nights in Dinsey [17] is if they could do it in a two-bedroom