How to Save Money When Shopping Online

Do you enjoy the convenience of shopping online? If you do, you may be willing to pay extra just for the ability to shop from the comfort of your own home. Although this is more than acceptable, did you know that there are ways for you to shop online and save money at the same time?

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet Connection

1. Compare Prices
   
   One of the best ways to save money when shopping online is to compare prices. What is nice about doing so online is that is very easy. Thanks to the internet, you can easily compare prices at ten or more retailers all in about 10 minutes worth of time. This is difficult, if not impossible, to do locally.
   
   There are also a number of websites, like www.shopping.com that make it even easier for shoppers, like you, to compare prices online.
2. Be On The Lookout For Great Sales
   
   Finding great sales is one of the best ways to save money when shopping online. Most retailers will prominently display any sales they have on the main page of their website.
   
   Deals that you will want to look for include a certain percentage off an item or your entire order, buy one get one free, buy one get one half off, and so forth.
3. Look for Discontinued Merchandise
   
   Although discontinued merchandise occasionally falls under the category of a “traditional,” sale, many retailers list this merchandise in a completely different section. Discontinued merchandise is usually items that are permanently discounted to make room for newer products.
   
   Most retailers will advertise their discontinued merchandise on a special sale or clearance page.
4. Examine Your Shipping Costs
   
   It is not uncommon for online retailers to charge what seems like a ridiculous amount of money for shipping. For that reason, you will want to be on the lookout for shipping discounts.
   
   Of course, it is best to receive free shipping, but if you are unable to find free shipping, flat rate shipping is ideal. Flat rate shipping is where you pay the same amount for shipping regardless of how much you buy.
5. Join an Online Rewards Program
   
   Online rewards programs are increasing in popularity. These reward programs, such as MyPoints, enable you to earn points, which can typically be redeemed for gift certificates, or cash for shopping online.
   
   By joining a rewards program, you are essentially earning money or other great prizes for buying items online that you likely would have purchased anyways.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do decide to shop locally, visit the online websites of your local retailers. Many retailers have sales online that they do not offer in the store, but many will still provide you with the online sale price if asked.
• Always remember that you do have other options when shopping online. For that reason, never pay too much money, especially with shipping costs.