Many people like to shop from the comfort of their own home during the holiday season. Shopping online has become more and more popular as the years of ongoing technology go on. Shopping with your children or waiting in those long lines can be outrageous and ridiculous, especially when you would rather be home with your family this season. But, if you like using the Internet to get all your holiday shopping out of the way or you have never done it before, I offer you 10 tips to make your experience safer, easier, and a little less costly.
1. Protect your computer.
You always want to make sure you have some sort of secure firewall, anti-spyware, or virus protection protecting your computer from hackers, viruses, or other problems it could encounter.
2. Visit trust-worthy websites.
Make sure you have visited these websites before. If they are commonly used and known for their excellent service, you’ll be less prone to identity theft or scams.
3. Safe credit card use.
Using a credit card is safe online. You just have to know what to look for. When you go to process your payments, make sure to look in your web browser for the http:// to change to https://, “s” meaning secure. Plus, you also receive all the protection your credit card company has to offer. Check statements often.
4. Know the total cost.
Often people will get great deals but forget that they have to pay for shipping. It is always important to factor that into the final cost.
5. Meet the minimum.
Most of the time, sites have free shipping for the holidays. On the other hand, some sites make you spend a minimum of $50 in order to receive the free shipping.
6. Know the promotional code.
Upon check out, if they ask you for a promo code, that means it exists. Go back to your search engine, type in the retailer plus promo code. It is posted on the Internet somewhere.
7. Keep track of your spending.
With the economy crisis right now, you definitely don’t want to spend a fortune. Monitor your spending, set a budget, and don’t spend over it.
8. Keep good records.
You don’t want to get caught up and have no proof of any of your transactions. Make sure you write down the order number, shipping costs and dates, and warranties, and be familiar with the retailer’s return policy. Some online merchants do not process returns at their retail locations.
9. Save your receipts.
Always save receipts, because you never know when you might need to return something, or if the person you bought for needs to exchange it.
10. Don’t wait until the last minute.
Shop early and you’ll avoid shipping costs and out-of-stock items. Ship early and you’ll avoid hefty prices for overnight or express shipping.