Camera

The last time I bought a camcorder was 2000. I bought the game-changing Sony MiniDV DCR-PC100E which, with its semi-professional high specification (pre-dating the word "pro-sumer"), revolutionised the marketplace. I paid £1099, heavily discounted from its list price of £1499. Despite my initial enthusiasm, I probably only used it half a dozen times over the following two years, so flogged it on eBay for a very generous £150. I only realised that much because I had the foresight to keep the original packaging and accessories.

I always like to think about the usage I will get out of any product before I commit my credit card details. In business parlance, this is like putting together a mental Business Case, and should the case for purchase not be overwhelming, I'll keep my money in my pocket.