5 Moments You're Most Likely to Overspend

The clock can rule our schedules, our thoughts and, as it turns out, our bank accounts. When a sign encouraged people to "spend a little time, enjoy C&D's lemonade," they were more likely to stop and buy a drink—and pay 51 percent more for it (compared to a those who saw a sign that asked them to "spend a little money"). Why? In the 2008 study from Stanford University, researchers found that 'spending time' makes us feel more like we're buying an experience, not parting with our hard-earned cash.

The subtle shift is enough to make us feel like we're investing in something to do—which most other research states will make us happier than material possessions—but in essence, it's just stuff masquerading as an experience.

Next: 5 money-saving myths you can ignore