Unlock the Best Online Shopping Deals: An Insider’s Guide

Online shopping, a modern convenience that offers countless product options and seamless end-to-end service, has seen a surge in popularity. According to Statista, e-commerce sales account for 14.1% of all retail sales worldwide in 2019 and it is expected to reach 22% by 2023. But there’s another substantial advantage to online shopping – the potential for great deals. So, how do you unlock the best online shopping deals? Here’s an insider’s guide to save you money on your next digital shopping spree.

Understand Seasonal Sales

Seasonal sales are significant events that many online retailers take part in. Familiarize yourself with the online sales calendar, which highlights when various types of products generally go on sale. For instance, electronics often get marked down during Black Friday or Cyber Monday while fashion items usually see discounts around end-of-season sales. This knowledge would enable you to plan your purchases efficiently.

Use Discount Codes

Online retailers frequently offer discount codes which can considerably lower your final bill. Websites such as RetailMeNot, Honey, or Groupon provide a vast array of coupon deals online for different retailers. It is advisable to check these sites before making any purchase.

Follow Brands on Social Media

Major brands often post exclusive deals or early access sales on their social media platforms. By following brands you love on sites like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, you will be among the first to know about these online deals.

Leverage Browser Extensions

A number of browser extensions automatically source and apply coupon codes at checkout when shopping online. Extensions like Honey or Rakuten can save both money and time by doing the legwork for you.

Compare Prices Across Websites

Prices can vary widely from one online retailer to another. Price comparison sites such as Google Shopping, Shopzilla or PriceGrabber can help you find out where the products you desire are being sold at the lowest prices.

Join Loyalty Programs

Loyalty programs provide exclusive discounts and rewards to their members. Joining such a program means getting access to these deals, and earning points or cash back every time you shop.

Reap Benefits from Cashback Sites

Websites like Rakuten, Swagbucks, or TopCashBack provide customers with a percentage of their purchase amount back in cash when they shop through the website. Such websites usually have partnerships with hundreds or even thousands of online retailers.

Buy Refurbished Items

Purchasing refurbished items is another effective way to score a deal. These are typically items that were returned or damaged in some way and then repaired and tested thoroughly to be resold at a reduced price.

Set Price Alerts

By creating a price alert, you can get a notification any time the price drops for the specific product you are interested in. Websites like CamelCamelCamel, Slickdeals or Honey offer this feature.

Avoid Dynamic Pricing

Dynamic pricing is when online retailers change prices based on location, browsing and spending patterns. Clear your browsing history and cookies to avoid dynamic pricing and potentially see lower prices.

Evaluate Shipping Costs

The last thing you want is a good deal negated by high shipping costs. Always check whether free shipping is available, whether by spending a certain amount or using a specific code.

Subscribe to Newsletters

Subscribing to a brand’s newsletter usually provides exclusive discounts and early access to sales. This can allow you to plan purchases and save money in the long run.

Consider Online Auctions

Sites like eBay offer the chance to bid on new or gently used items. Bidding wisely could allow you to snag a great deal.

Research Purchase Timings

Many industries have off-peak times when prices drop. Purchasing travel tickets midweek, for example, can often result in savings. Look into these timings for the products you are considering purchasing.

Your New Shopping Strategy

The next time you shop online, remember these tips to help unlock the best deals possible. By understanding seasonal sales, using discount codes, joining loyalty programs, and employing a few other tricks of the trade, you will not just shop smarter, but also save money along the way. Soon enough, navigating through online shopping like an insider will become your second nature. Happy bargain hunting!

Griffin Kilmeade