If you aren't going to use the programmable features you can get something way cheaper (like a basic Crockpot) for about 30 bucks at a comparable size. The cheaper options don't have an auto shut off function and will keep cooking until they're turned off BUT if you're only planning to be gone for less than 10 hours when you use it it'll be fine.

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Actually just checking Amazon, Crockpot has a programmable one (https://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-6-Quart-Programmable-Stainless-SCCPVL610-S/dp/B004P2NG0K/ref=sr_1_4_acs_ac_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1543427473&sr=1-4-acs&keywords=crockpot) for less than 40 bucks and the basic one is around 30 (https://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCV800-B-8-Quart-Manual-Cooker/dp/B0196B3P1E/ref=sr_1_6?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1543427473&sr=1-6&keywords=crockpot)