You're more likely to charge up debt
Drunken shopping makes you more susceptible to offers to open a store-branded credit card if your credit cards are maxed out, your checking account is empty or you spy a discount that sounds too good to be true. "Shopping under the influence can lead to opening up a new card for the Banana Republic shirt you just have to have," says Koos.
When you shop under the influence and charge the purchases, it doesn't feel like you are really spending money. But getting those credit card statements in the mail serves as a sobering reminder of your drunken shopping escapades, says Steve Repak, the author of "Dollars & Uncommon Sense: Basic Training For Your Money."
"When you drink and shop, it's harder to think beyond the here and now and make smarter choices about avoiding racking up debt you might not otherwise incur," says Repak.
If you can't say no to credit card offers, your credit scores could be in jeopardy.
"Your credit score will decline if your debt grows close to your available credit limit," says John Ulzheimer, the president of consumer education for SmartCredit.com.
A hard inquiry pull of your credit when you apply for new credit can shave 10 points or more from your credit scores. You can't earn those points back for 12 months, says Ulzheimer.
You're at a greater risk of identity theft
Repak says diminished vision and critical thinking skills also can make you an easier target. "You are more likely to open yourself up to identity theft," he says.
When you're pie-eyed, Repak says you're more likely to mistakenly shop on a website that's not secure (the difference between "http" and "https" in a Web address becomes tough to spot when you've been overserved). "That opens the door to your credit card information being stolen," he says.
When your defenses are down, you're also more likely to click on a link that downloads a nasty virus that records your keystrokes. "That's the equivalent of giving a total stranger your user names, passwords and online access to all of your banking information," says Repak.
Oh yeah, and there's a greater chance of leaving your wallet behind at the store for an ID thief to pick up or not noticing that a pickpocket has bumped into you and lifted your wallet.
Bottom line for bottom's-up shopping
Your best bet is passing by the stores and pushing away from your keyboard after having a drink or two. Can't keep out of the mall? Then shop with people you know are good at managing their money and are less likely to overspend. Just make sure your shopping buddy is sober!
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