Clothing, food and alcohol are the most popular payday treats, with 55 per cent of women and 45 per cent of men going on to regret their splurges later in the month. The vast majority – 61 per cent – of Brits admit to running out of money at some point before their next payday.

Some 71 per cent say they try to save money from their wages, but 29 per cent admit having to take it back out when their bank balances dwindle towards the end of the month.

For 60 per cent of Brits a pay rise wouldn’t change their situation towards the end of the month, with 20 per cent saying extra spending would absorb the increase.

Andy Oldham, managing director of Quidco, said: “When you work hard, it’s reasonable to feel entitled to having a little bit of what you like at the end of the month when your salary comes through as long as you don’t allow common sense to go out the window, leaving you on a strict budget when the payday euphoria wears off.”

He continued: “A common mistake is deploying money saving tactics at the end of the month, when your bank account is dwindling. Keeping an eye on your spending can help make sure you are able to maintain the lifestyle you want throughout the month, not just in the magic few days post-payday.”