Beachside Buys – Why Vacations Turn Us Into High-Spending Consumers

Why do we splurge on $60 beach towels and $12 bottles of water while on vacation—without a second thought? In this episode of Consumer Catalyst, Dr. Nicole Arnett Sanders unpacks the fascinating psychology behind vacation spending. From dopamine-fueled “vacation brain” to impulse buys, social proof at the shore, and the convenience premium, you’ll discover how our brains shift into high-spend mode the moment our toes hit the sand. Whether you're a curious consumer or a savvy marketer, this episode reveals what really drives those beachside buys—and how businesses can use those insights year-round.