Donald Trump, often associated with luxury and high-profile expenditures, has revealed a surprising side to his lifestyle. From fast food to affordable hair care, the former president has been known to cut costs in unexpected ways, according to various reports.

Fast Food Preferences

Contrary to the image of a man who dines on gourmet delicacies, Trump has been photographed eating at fast food restaurants. In October 2025, Joe Gruters, chairman of the Republican National Committee, shared details of Trump’s McDonald’s order on a local government podcast, according to the Daily Beast. The meal included a Filet-O-Fish, a Quarter Pounder, a Big Mac and fries, totaling approximately $26.06, according to DoorDash.

Trump has also been seen eating Kentucky Fried Chicken and has expressed a fondness for Burger King, according to CNN. These dining choices reflect a more down-to-earth approach to food, despite his wealth.

Affordable Hair Care

Trump’s signature hairstyle has often been the subject of discussion, but not all aspects of his grooming routine are high-end. According to Rolling Stone, Trump uses Head & Shoulders Shampoo, a product that costs $6.99 for a 12.5-ounce bottle at Target.

For styling his hair, Trump reportedly uses CHI’s Helmet Head, a product available at Walmart for $13.94 for a 10-ounce bottle, according to The Cut. These choices highlight a preference for budget-friendly solutions in personal care.

Snacking on Budget-Friendly Treats

Trump’s snack choices also reflect a more frugal lifestyle. Instead of indulging in high-end delicacies, he prefers standard junk food. According to reports, he is partial to Lay’s Potato Chips, which cost $3.99 for an 8-ounce bag at Target.

In their book ‘Let Trump Be Trump,’ former aides David Bossie and Corey Lewandowski noted that Trump’s private plane is stocked with snacks like Vienna Fingers, pretzels, and Oreos, according to People. These choices illustrate a preference for accessible, affordable treats over luxury options.

Trump’s affinity for Diet Coke is well-documented. He reportedly had a button installed on the Oval Office desk to alert staff when he needed a beverage, according to Vice. He drinks up to 12 cans of the soda per day, according to The New York Times. A case of Diet Coke costs $8.47 at Walmart.

Tax Strategy

Trump’s approach to taxes has also been a point of discussion. From 2015 to 2020, Trump and his wife Melania reported negative income four times, according to NBC News. As a result, they paid just $750 in net tax in 2016 and 2017, and paid no income taxes in 2020, according to NPR.

In 2025, the top 1% paid an average of $561,523 in income taxes, according to the Tax Foundation. Even the bottom 50% paid an average of $822 in income taxes, which is less than what Trump paid in the years noted above. This contrast highlights the unique nature of Trump’s financial strategy.

These frugal habits, while surprising, offer insight into the personal choices of a man who often projects an image of opulence. Whether it’s his fast food preferences, affordable hair care, budget-friendly snacks, or strategic tax planning, Trump’s lifestyle choices reflect a blend of luxury and practicality.