Online shopping in America is a massive market, with an estimated 268 million online shoppers in the United States as of 2022 . This number is projected to increase to almost 285 million online shoppers by 2025 . To put this into perspective, global e-commerce sales are expected to reach $58.74 trillion by 2028, with online retail sales growing at a compound annual growth rate of 14.6% from 2021 to 2028
The convenience of online shopping has revolutionized the way we purchase goods and services. With just a few clicks, we can browse, select, and buy products from the comfort of our homes. However, this ease of shopping can sometimes lead to impulse purchases, overspending, and buyer’s remorse.
Here are 10 essential things to consider before shopping online.
[10 tips you wish you knew earlier]
1. Define Your Budget
Before starting your online shopping spree, set a realistic budget. Decide how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it. Avoid browsing through luxury or high-end stores if you can’t afford them. Knowing your budget will help you make informed purchasing decisions.
2. Research and Compare Prices
Compare prices across different websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Use price comparison tools like PriceGrabber, Nextag, or Google Shopping to find the lowest prices. Don’t forget to check for price match guarantees.
3. Look for Discounts and Coupons
Keep an eye out for promo codes, discounts, and coupons. Sign up for newsletters, follow your favorite brands on social media, or use coupon aggregator websites like RetailMeNot or (link unavailable)
4. Check Website Authenticity
Verify the website’s authenticity by checking for:
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HTTPS in the URL
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A lock icon in the address bar
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Trust badges like VeriSign or TRUSTe
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A clear return and refund policy
5. Read Reviews and Ratings
Check product reviews from multiple sources to ensure you’re buying a quality product. Look for reviews from independent websites, forums, or social media.
6. Understand Shipping Costs and Times
Factor in shipping costs and estimated delivery times. Some websites may offer free shipping or discounted rates for bulk orders.
7. Check Return and Refund Policies
Know the return and refund policies before making a purchase. Understand the process, timelines, and any associated fees.
8. Be Cautious of Bundle Deals
While bundle deals may seem attractive, ensure you need all the items included. Avoid buying unnecessary products just because they’re bundled together.
9. Consider Alternative Payment Options
Explore alternative payment options like PayPal, Google Pay, or credit cards with rewards programs. These can offer additional security, rewards, or cashback.
10. Use Cashback and Rewards Apps
Use cashback and rewards apps like:
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Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates)
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TopCashback
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Ibotta
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Fetch Rewards
These apps offer cashback, discounts, or rewards for shopping through their platforms.
Bonus Tip: Avoid Impulse Buys
Take time to think before making a purchase. Ask yourself:
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Do I really need this product?
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Can I afford it?
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Is there a better alternative?
By considering these 10 factors, you’ll be well on your way to saving money, avoiding unnecessary purchases, and shopping smart online.
Estimated Savings:
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Comparing prices: 10-20% savings
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Using coupons and discounts: 5-15% savings
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Avoiding impulse buys: 10-20% savings
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Using cashback and rewards apps: 5-10% savings
Total estimated savings: 30-65%
Start shopping smart today and watch your savings grow!
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