By Laura Brookes
Drunk shopping is a hobby Canadians enjoy a little too much, according to a new report from financial comparison website Finder.com.
The report found that almost one in three (31 per cent) of Canadian adults sip and click, spending an average of $229 while under the influence in their lifetime.
It may not seem like a lot, but Finder Canada estimates the guilty pleasure has cost the country upwards of $2 billion.
Over half of drunk shoppers say they were buying food, followed closely by more alcohol, shoes and clothing, cigarettes and gambling.
Notably, eight per cent say they've bought a pet while drunk.
Survey results show the habit is more common for men, with 40 per cent saying they've made a drunk purchase as opposed to 23 per cent of women. They also spend higher, on average, while under the influence.
Finder Canada country manager William Eve says it has never been easier to shop while intoxicated.
“All it takes is a few clicks or a quick tap. If you want to make it harder to shop under the influence I recommend either uninstalling shopping apps or deleting your credit card information. These extra hurdles can make you think twice about whether you really want to make the purchase.
“You can also consider making a pact with family or friends to encourage each other not to drunk shop. Sometimes all you need is a friendly reminder that you can always make the purchase tomorrow if you still want it.”
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