6 Tips to Saving Money While Shopping Online
It’s hard to imagine life before online shopping. Because it’s so easy to do, so many people partake in the wonderful ritual of enjoying purchases that arrive at their front door with the simple click of a button. However, there are tons of people who still enjoy saving money. If you’d like to find ways to save money while you’re shopping online, consider the following six tips.
1. Download coupon widgets.
It’s best to use widgets when you’re using a desktop or a laptop computer. It might be harder to manage widgets on a smartphone. However, if you have a browser like Google Chrome, you’ll be able to download different widgets. They’ll remain in your browser whenever you open a new window. Whenever you’d like to purchase something, if there’s a deal or an available online discount, the widget will pop up with different discounts. Since it’s in the browser, it’ll do so automatically. This is a really convenient way to take advantage of relevant discount codes that you might’ve missed out on if you didn’t have the widget.
2. Join a cash-back/rewards program.
There’s a really popular program that was formerly known as Ebates. It’s now called Rakuten. When you sign up for their cash-back/rewards program, you can activate the widget at any time. When you’re ready to make a purchase, it’ll show you how much you can save. Then, it’ll maintain an account for you. In that account, you’ll be able to see your pennies add up with each relevant purchase. Once you reach a certain threshold, you can request a deposit into your PayPal account. This is a convenient way to make money and save money on your online purchases.
3. Use the search engines to look for cheaper deals.
Just because you’re used to seeing a specific item at one store doesn’t mean other stores don’t have it for a better price. In fact, it’s a really wise idea to do a Google search to check out the different prices at other stores. If you love a specific candle from a high-end department store, check eBay to see if there’s any seller who’s offering it at a discounted price. With the right search, you can usually find a coveted item at a cheaper price. Don’t be afraid to do your research.
4. Use a credit card with rewards.
When you’re shopping online with a credit card, make sure it’s one with a rewards program. Whether the rewards come in the form of cash back or points for traveling, use credit cards to your advantage. Always be sure to pay the money off at the end of the month. Otherwise, this tool can become a liability.
5. Clear your cookies.
This tip is especially important for travel arrangements. If you don’t clean your cookies once you’ve searched for various flights or hotel arrangements, you can end up spending more on your travel plans. Clear your cookies after each internet research session for expensive purchases like airline tickets.
6. Leave your online cart full.
However, if you’re making purchases at major discount stores, it might be great to fill your cart and leave it alone a week before you’re ready to make a purchase. That retailer might email you the different discounts or selections at better rates.
As you’re able to gain traction with these tips, you’ll feel a lot better about your ability to protect your funds, maximize your resources and enjoy the convenience of online shopping. Take advantage of these tips and more. As you reap the benefits, you’ll become addicted to this new way of saving.