About 20% of Americans Are Stockpiling Goods and ‘Doom Spending,’ Mostly in Response to Trump Tariffs

Heightened anxiety about the sweeping tariffs being imposed by President Donald Trump has resulted in some Americans stockpiling goods in advance of expected price increases at the checkout, Reuters reported.

A recent report from CreditCards.com indicated that one in five American consumers were buying more items than usual, with over half of respondents who were stockpiling saying that Trump’s tariffs were influencing their behavior in this regard. Of that group, 29% suggested that tariff concerns were greatly impacting their desire to purchase additional goods, and a further 37% said tariffs were at least somewhat responsible for their excess purchases.

A quarter of those polled stated that they had made large purchases since November’s election in fear of Trump’s tariffs, per the report, and approximately 20% of respondents categorized their spending habits as “doom spending,” or “purchasing items excessively or impulsively in response to fears or anxiety about future events.”

American Consumers Stockpiling Coffee, Avocados, and Pantry Staples

According to a survey of 250 Americans conducted by The New York Times, there are a few select goods that are particularly dear to consumers who are stockpiling before tariffs kick into full effect.

Coffee, for one. Coffee consumption hit a 20-year high in 2024, and NYT readers were united in saying that they were picking up more than usual.

“The day after Colombia was threatened with tariffs, I went to Costco and bought 16 pounds of coffee. I call it my strategic coffee reserve. I like looking at it. It makes me feel safe,” said Mary Corbett of San Diego.

Avocados were also on the menu for those prepping in advance of tariffs, particularly against Mexico. Given that avocados were the most common Mexican import mentioned by the publication’s audience, it should come as no surprise that they’re on the list — even with the relatively short shelf life.

“I used to buy a couple at a time. Now, I plan to buy them rock hard and in bulk, storing them in the refrigerator before transferring to the counter to ripen,” Rebecca Lawton of Fort Worth said.

Pantry staples as a broad category were also frequently mentioned in the NYT survey, with spices, oatmeal, quinoa, dried fruits, canned fruits and vegetables, and dry beans being standouts.