Spaving, a blend of the words “spending” and “saving,” is the act of buying something to save money — often under the illusion that you’re making a financially savvy decision. The term has been making waves on social media platforms like TikTok, but behind the trendy name is a real financial habit that could quietly sabotage your long-term money goals.
Whether it’s a discount at the grocery store or a one-day flash sale online, spaving often feels like a win. After all, who doesn’t like getting more for less? But the truth is, spaving can lead to overspending, increased credit card debt, and even derailment of goals like saving for a down payment, managing a mortgage, or staying on top of monthly bills.
Why Spaving Feels Like a Smart Move
Retailers are experts in psychology. They frame deals in ways that make it seem like you’re getting an incredible bargain, even when you’re spending more than you intended. Offers like “spend $75 to get free shipping,” “buy one, get one free,” or “subscribe and save 20%” are common examples. While these promotions are designed to feel like cost-saving opportunities, they’re often just nudging you to buy more.
Picture this: you walk into a store and see a $100 pair of jeans marked down to $30. You weren’t planning to buy jeans, but it feels like you’re saving $70, right? In reality, you’re out $30 — and that’s $30 that could have gone toward your rent, groceries, or emergency savings.
This is the essence of spaving. It disguises impulsive spending as smart shopping. Left unchecked, it can contribute to financial strain, particularly when paired with other rising costs like rent increases or high interest credit cards.
Recognizing Spaving in Action
The key to avoiding spaving is recognizing it before it happens. Take a moment before you buy anything that’s marked as a “deal” and ask yourself:
- Was this something I planned to purchase?
- Do I actually need it right now?
- Will this help me meet my financial goals?
If the answer to these questions is no, then the “deal” might not be such a great value after all. Be especially wary of language that creates a sense of urgency — such as “limited time only,” “only 3 left,” or “today only.” These tactics play into your fear of missing out and encourage quick, emotion-driven purchases.
Spaving and Your Financial Goals
For Canadians trying to make progress on big financial goals, such as getting approved for a mortgage, managing monthly bills, or tackling consumer debt, spaving can be especially harmful. Every extra $30 here and $20 there adds up — and that money could be working much harder for you elsewhere.
If you’re dealing with a tight budget, you might find our article on how to prioritize bills helpful. And if your current financial obligations are preventing you from qualifying for a mortgage or refinance, we also explore solutions in our guide to mortgages while in a consumer proposal.
How to Curb the Urge to Spave
The good news is that there are simple strategies to help reduce impulse buying. One of the most effective is the 72-hour rule: if you weren’t planning to buy something, wait three days before making the purchase. Most of the time, the urge passes.
Other smart strategies include:
- Keep a running list of items you actually need and check it before purchasing anything on sale.
- Set a spending cap for non-essential purchases each month and stick to it.
- Use cash-back or rewards cards only when you’ve already planned a purchase — not to justify buying more.
You can even turn it into a game. Each time you resist the urge to spave, mentally reward yourself. Over time, resisting these “deals” will become more natural, and your savings account will thank you for it.
What Spaving Means in the Bigger Picture
Spaving may seem harmless, but it’s part of a larger issue: our relationship with money and how retailers influence our decisions. When you become more intentional with your purchases, you take control away from marketing gimmicks and put it back in your hands.
At The Local Broker, we regularly speak to clients who are working hard to take control of their finances — whether that means getting a better mortgage rate, consolidating high-interest debt, or refinancing after life changes like a separation. Our advice is always the same: be mindful, informed, and don’t let short-term spending habits undermine your long-term goals.
Looking Ahead
Whether you’re saving for a home, navigating a major life change, or simply trying to stay ahead of your bills, small financial decisions matter. Spaving might seem like a small thing, but it can stand in the way of your bigger financial picture if left unchecked.
If you’re working toward a financial goal like buying a home or refinancing your mortgage, we’re here to help. Contact us today or start your application online — it’s quick, confidential, and obligation-free.