<prompt> Human: I dont feel a need to start saving for a house or for a car, when I believe I could go on a trip that would make me happier right now, because I know my average starting salary will be around 75,000 in a year so I am not worried about saving too much for long-term goals. Maybe invest it in stock or try online gambling with 500? save 2,000 for an engagement ring for my one day wife? 1,000 in an emergency fund? But my parents are doing well so an emergency fund isnt too important to me. I want to buy an AR-15 for 600.  <response>: I know my average starting salary will be around 75,000 in a yearThis means nothing until you start getting paychecks. Maybe invest it in stock good, check out VTSAX and try online gambling with 500?Those places make money from you loosing. You might as well throw it in the trash in my mind.save 2,000 for an engagement ring for my one day wife?Not terrible, but it sounds like this would at least 3 years away, so why think about it.1,000 in an emergency fund? very solid, 1k does not do a whole lot though. Car repairs can close to 2k for some stuffBut my parents are doing well so an emergency fund isnt too important to me. Are you an independent adult or crying baby that needs daddy every time they have money problems?I want to buy an AR-15 for 600.Not a terrible idea. They hold their value very well, but the rounds cost a fortune.I would say use 1.5k for fun stuff and keep the rest to cover what ever moving costs or car needs you will have in the future. 