Ever wondered if your shopping habits are unique, or if everyone else is doing the same things when they hit the stores or shop online? Thanks to consumer surveys, we can peek into the buying behaviors of shoppers everywhere—and some of the results may surprise you. From hidden preferences to shopping shortcuts, here are the shopping habits you didn’t know everyone else had, according to surveys.
1. Impulse Buying Is More Common Than You Think
We’ve all been there: you go into a store or visit an online retailer for one item, and before you know it, your cart is full of things you didn’t plan to buy. According to surveys, you’re far from alone. A whopping 80% of shoppers admit to making impulse buys, with many saying they do so at least once a month. While groceries and clothing top the list, impulse purchases often include gadgets, home décor, and beauty products.
The Reason: For many, impulse buying is triggered by sales or the lure of limited-time offers. Discounts and promotions make it easier to justify unplanned purchases.
2. Price Checking Is the New Norm
Comparing prices across multiple websites or stores isn’t just a smart move—it’s something most shoppers now do. Surveys reveal that over 70% of consumers regularly check prices online before making a purchase, even if they’re shopping in physical stores. This habit is especially prevalent for electronics, appliances, and big-ticket items where the savings can be significant.
The Reason: The rise of online shopping has made it easy to compare prices in real-time, ensuring shoppers feel confident they’re getting the best deal. Apps and browser extensions also make this process seamless.
3. Shoppers Love Reviews—But They Don’t Always Trust Them
Online reviews can be the make-or-break factor for many shoppers, with over 90% of people reading reviews before making a purchase. However, surveys also show that a growing number of consumers—around 40%—are becoming skeptical of reviews, worried that they might be fake or overly positive.
The Reason: While reviews help consumers feel more informed, the prevalence of fake or incentivized reviews has caused some shoppers to question their authenticity, leading to more cautious decisions.
4. Mobile Shopping Is Taking Over
Shopping on mobile devices isn’t just a trend—it’s quickly becoming the preferred method for many consumers. Surveys indicate that more than half of online purchases are now made on smartphones, with younger shoppers, in particular, driving this trend. Whether browsing on their lunch break or shopping from the couch, mobile commerce has made it easier than ever to make purchases on the go.
The Reason: The convenience of mobile apps, combined with features like one-click ordering and mobile payment options, makes it effortless for shoppers to buy from anywhere at any time.
5. Loyalty Programs Keep Shoppers Coming Back
Loyalty programs are a major factor in shaping shopping behavior. According to surveys, 80% of shoppers are more likely to buy from retailers that offer loyalty programs, with discounts, points, and exclusive deals being key motivators. What’s more, many shoppers will go out of their way to shop at a store where they can earn points, even if it’s not the cheapest option.
The Reason: Consumers love feeling rewarded for their purchases, and loyalty programs offer a tangible incentive to keep coming back. Points that lead to free products or significant discounts add up quickly, making these programs irresistible for many.
6. Free Shipping Is a Dealbreaker
When it comes to online shopping, the phrase “free shipping” can seal the deal. Surveys show that over 75% of online shoppers expect free shipping and are more likely to abandon their carts if shipping costs are too high. Even small shipping fees can cause shoppers to rethink their purchase, with many willing to add more items to their cart just to qualify for free shipping.
The Reason: Free shipping feels like a reward, and shoppers have grown accustomed to it, thanks to e-commerce giants like Amazon. When it’s not offered, it can create friction, causing potential buyers to walk away.
7. Social Media Is Influencing More Purchases Than Ever
Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook have become major influencers in the shopping world. Surveys indicate that over 50% of consumers have made purchases based on recommendations or advertisements they’ve seen on social media. Whether it’s an influencer touting the latest skincare product or a flash sale advertised through an Instagram story, social media is now a powerful shopping tool.
The Reason: Social media creates a sense of immediacy, with limited-time deals or viral trends pushing shoppers to make quick purchases. Visual content, such as product demonstrations or reviews, also helps build trust and drive impulse buys.
8. Sustainability Matters—But Price Still Wins
While sustainability is an important factor for many consumers, surveys show that price still comes out on top when making purchasing decisions. Around 60% of shoppers say they care about the environmental impact of their purchases, but if a sustainable product is significantly more expensive than a less eco-friendly option, most will choose the cheaper alternative.
The Reason: Although sustainability is a growing priority, price sensitivity remains strong. However, many consumers are willing to switch brands if the sustainable option is similarly priced.
How Do Your Shopping Habits Compare?
From impulse buys to loyalty programs and social media influence, these common habits show just how much we share when it comes to shopping behavior. While we may all have our unique preferences, these survey insights reveal that many of our decisions are influenced by convenience, deals, and online trends. So next time you shop, remember—you’re not alone in your habits. You’re part of a larger crowd, all navigating the world of modern retail in similar ways.
