Why do we spend more when we pay by card?

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It’s no surprise, especially if you tend to reach for your card instead of cash. But if you sometimes spend without thinking, your card may be part of the reason. A 2025 meta-analysis found that people consistently spend more when paying by card than with cash. Unlike a single study, it combines results from multiple studies to give a more reliable picture. Here, it draws on 71 studies across 17 countries, with more than 11,000 participants, making the conclusion particularly solid. Does contactless payment make things even worse? How can you stay in control of your spending? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: Does money really make us happy? Could the 6-1 method help you save money on groceries? Could loud budgeting help you save money ? A Bababam Originals podcast written and realised by Amber Minogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices