A message from ATB Financial:
There's something oddly satisfying about watching someone unbox their latest purchases. The perfectly curated setup, the excitement in their voice, the crisp sound of tissue paper being peeled back — it's like we're right there with them, experiencing the rush of something new.
Social media hauls tap into the part of our brains that craves novelty and belonging. We see someone unbox a trendy skincare set, a capsule wardrobe refresh, or a stack of "life-changing" Amazon finds, and suddenly, we want in. It's not just about the stuff. It's about the feeling. The thrill. The belief that maybe this time, this thing will be the one that makes life easier, happier, or more put-together.
But here's the problem: hauls aren't just entertaining. They can be expensive, emotionally draining, and designed to keep us spending.
How hauls trigger FOMO and encourage impulsive spending
You're not alone if you've ever watched a haul video and immediately felt the itch to add to your cart. These videos are designed to spark FOMO (fear of missing out). The combination of exclusivity ("This colour sells out so fast!"), urgency ("You need this before it's gone"), and relatability ("I wasn't sure at first, but I LOVE it now") creates the perfect storm for impulse spending.
Even if we don't buy something immediately, the seed is planted. Later, when we're scrolling or out shopping, that item or something similar feels familiar. And familiar things feel like good things. The more we see it, the more it becomes a "need" instead of a "want."
Some signs that social media hauls might be influencing your spending:
- You feel the urge to shop right after watching haul videos.
- You've bought something that looked great on camera but didn't fit your lifestyle.
- You feel guilty or regretful about purchases you made impulsively.
- Your wishlist is constantly growing, but your savings aren't.
- You catch yourself justifying purchases with "I deserve this" or "It's a small treat" (even when it adds up).
Read on to learn more about the hidden costs of constant consumption and how to establish your own "money rules."
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