As the economy continues to shift and consumers navigate inflation, spending habits are under the microscope. A recent Yahoo Finance article highlighted findings from Provoke Insights’ latest study, revealing that 29% of Americans make at least one impulse purchase per week—a behavior that can seriously derail financial goals. Check out the article here to discover other wealth destroyers to watch out for in 2025.

The spending consumer research point to a growing concern: Americans are consistently overspending on unplanned purchases, often without realizing the long-term impact. From an extra $5 coffee to a $150 big-box store run that started with a single item in mind, these spontaneous purchases add up quickly.

The impulse purchase is often driven by emotional responses, convenience, or even social pressure. While it’s common and sometimes harmless, frequent impulse buying can strain personal budgets, disrupt savings plans, and increase reliance on credit cards. In today’s economic climate, where inflation and credit card interest rates remain high, this can be especially damaging.

To curb the impact, experts suggest simple but powerful strategies. Shopping with a list and sticking to it is one of the most effective ways to reduce impulse purchases. Using cash instead of credit cards is another tactic that reinforces mindful spending, as it physically limits what consumers can spend in a given moment.

At Provoke Insights, we help brands and financial institutions understand the “why” behind consumer behavior. Our consumer spending research shows that economic uncertainty, peer influence, and instant gratification are major drivers behind the rise of impulse spending.

As consumers strive to make smarter financial choices, understanding these behaviors can empower both individuals and the companies that serve them. For more in-depth consumer insights and data-driven strategies, explore our upcoming Summer 2025 Trends Report.