BNPL Trap: How 'Buy Now Pay Later' Leads to Overspending and Debt

• BNPL makes small spending feel invisible, removing the friction of upfront payment and making purchases seem smaller.
• It increases fixed commitments without users noticing, quietly squeezing cash flow with multiple small deductions.
• Late fees and penalties add up fast if payments are missed, turning small installments into larger bills.
• BNPL can negatively affect your credit profile, as providers report to credit bureaus, and missed payments show up.
• It encourages lifestyle inflation by shifting focus from 'Can I afford this?' to 'Can I afford this installment?'