Guide to Online Shopping

Take online retail shopping for example, specifically clothing.
New research has shown that almost a third of those who buy over the internet splash out on pieces that they would never pick up while out and about. People feel comfortable to buy things they would never try on in a store, or items they wouldn’t necessarily wear, but look great on the models. Items that will eventually end up in a wardrobe, never to be seen again, a complete waste of money.

The intangibility of online shopping seems to be the main culprit of financial waste. You cannot feel anything, you cannot try anything out. For example, every online store will have different sizing, and whatever size you think you are will differ from store to store. In fact, it is almost impossible to know if a garment is going to fit without trying it on. To ensure you do not waste money on those unfitted items, take your measurements! Most online stores will specify the measurements of items which you can match to your own, creating the most accurate fit.

The second culprit of financial waste is those tricky techniques used by websites. A common finding is that once you are ready to check out, websites will give you the option of spending a little bit more to receive free shipping. This is a tactic that many will fall for.

It’s difficult to spend a small amount on something extra that you really want, for that reason people end up spending an extra $30- $50 on something they actually want. The best way to avoid spending more than needed is to weigh out your options in a logical way. Ask yourself, if a company is asking you to spend $15 more, is there anything worth $15 that is of value to you? If you’re tempted to spend more than just $15, rather pay the $20 shipping and save yourself from spending on extra, unnecessary items.
Lastly, online shopping can be dangerous for impulse buyers as it opens up an endless world of products. Some amazing things that you never knew existed and need to have in your life. Many of which would be difficult to find in stores.
If you find yourself buying things like this,

Or this,

Then you’re guilty of impulse buying of unnecessary items!

To subdue the pull of impulse purchasing, it’s a good idea to know what you need. Picture online shopping as if you are shopping at a supermarket. Write a list of everything you need, do not spend time looking at items you don’t need and look for the cheapest options in each category to save money while shopping!