If you had a time machine that took you back to the early 2000s, you’d probably use it—and we’d be there right by your side, with snacks for the journey.
The early 2000s were a vastly different and—arguably—far better time than the endless global crises we face in 2026. Many things that were completely normal and commonplace back then feel rare and luxurious now, and internet users shared the ones they miss the most. You’ll find their nostalgic posts as you scroll down.
#63
Going out to eat or get snacks. I remember I used to work at a meat packing plant the summer after I graduated highschool in 2015. Paid $11 per hour only and I felt like I could eat out way more often.
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5points
#64
Time. You can relax much more, do things much slower, listen to a song or watching something as much as you want before the next big thing comes. I felt like more people were able to come home and relax after work compared to now.
Obviously some things were more annoyingly slow (internet) but at least that wasn't monetized the way it is now where everyone is trying to be the next big thing by hitting algorithms. It allowed for some out-of-left field creativity.
Obviously some things were more annoyingly slow (internet) but at least that wasn't monetized the way it is now where everyone is trying to be the next big thing by hitting algorithms. It allowed for some out-of-left field creativity.
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5points
#65
A quiet train/bus ride, without people playing things out of their phone speaker.
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5points
#70
Is it just me or does anyone else remember quarter arcades being quite common? The really small ones without restaurants in them. Usually next to a laundromat or tailor. Now they feel like clubs and you have to buy tokens.
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4points
#71
Video games used to come in large hardcover book-sized boxes that took up space on your shelf. Usually a booklet with instructions and lore was included, artwork too. Now these are collectors items.
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3points
#72
Being able to run to the store any time of night, 2am grocery runs were very common for me back in the day up until Covid.
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3points
#73
Saying 'g2g' to end a conversation lmao. Conversations over text never really end, just suddenly someone stops responding, and there’s always the expectation that the convo can/will be picked back up to continue indefinitely.
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1point
#74
Going to Vegas and enjoying it without it feeling like a tourist trap.
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-2points