Yes, that's why I usually manage to find alternatives (other than the flight computer). My flight bag is a cheap laptop case, my stopwatch came from a sports shop (quarter of the price), gloves from a golfing shop, protactors etc from a local stationers - there are pretty much always alternatives to be found.
I print my own flight plans and made my own kneeboard and I've never had to buy a hi-vis vest; I seem to acquire them!!!
Hope this helps.
Cheers
Whirls