How Much Do Your Social Lives Cost You?
Think you’re rocking that balanced budget? Think again – a fresh Aqua survey shows that nine out of ten people are blowing through their social spend every month. Let’s break it down so you can see if you’re on track.
Key Numbers at a Glance
- Average overspend: £61/month (≈£732/year)
- Populated cities with the highest do‑over: Newcastle (95%), Glasgow (94%), Cardiff (92%)
- Biggest monthly mess-ups: London (£73), Manchester (£66), Belfast (£65)
- Pressure to overspend: 67% of Brits feel it in social settings
Pressure Points
- London: 74%
- Liverpool: 71%
- Manchester: 70%
- Others: Bristol sees only 57% feeling the squeeze
Whos Taking the Lead?
When it comes to who nudges you to spend more, it’s not just your friends doing the talking:
- Women: 28% say it’s mainly friends
- Men: 27% attribute it to their partners
Why We Lose Control
- Keeping close – 27% say they’ll spend more so they can hang out with loved ones.
- Feeling FOMO (fear of missing out) – 21% admit they’re just chasing excitement.
- Other triggers: being carried away by the moment or simply forgetting their budget (another 21%).
Pro‑Tips to Tame the Spending Beast
- Chat Openly – Let friends, family, and partners know your budget constraints. Transparency reduces temptation.
- Remember they’re after time together, not the cost.
- Never dip into unapproved overdrafts or savings to fund their plans.
- If you’re using a credit card, set a repayment goal and stick to it.
Bottom line: you’re not alone in struggling with social spending. Knowing where the pressure comes from and why you feel the urge to overspend gives you a fighting chance. The smart move? Shape your party plans to fit your budget, not the other way around. Happy saving, happy living!
