How to get the best shopping deals over the Internet?

Online shopping has taken over the Internet by storm where convenience and simplicity has replaced, or at least complimented, more conventional shopping in specialty stores or malls. Although the shopping experience has always been fun and a stress reliever for many, online shopping has become so much the norm that it is actually possible to get products at different prices through different websites. In fact, expert online shoppers will also be able to tell you how and which sites you should visit get great bargains.

Price comparison websites
Over the Internet, shoppers can visit portals like Dealtime.com, Froogle.com and Kelkoo.com to conduct price comparisons. These sites compile price information from other websites that are selling the items that you are looking for. Therefore, instead of visiting a range of websites to compare prices on your own, you can do this in just one virtual location. And of course there are many shopping portals which are dedicated only to your own country of residence, which can save you on postage and packing (in some cases this will be free of charge). There are specialised portals for, for example, computer hardware and software, music, DVDs, etc.

Online Coupons
It’s amazing that many deals that can be found through conventional shopping methods, have a similar virtual version as well. If you are in the habit of cutting up discount coupons, you can do the same when you do your shopping online. Some sites feature special coupons from hundreds of online stores in which you can run a search by store or by a specific product. Make sure that the coupons you download and print – or the voucher code you have been given – is valid in your country of residence.

Visit store websites first
Make the Internet your first point of reference before you visit actual brick and mortar establishments. Most large stores have their own shopping websites which may offer a similar product at a lower price when purchased online. This may be possible through online only discounts or no sales tax charged. Additionally, you can opt for in-store pickups and gain free shipping on top of your special price. This way, you don’t have to spend time visiting different physical stores comparing prices but get the best price out of the internet.

Go to Ebay.com
Ebay.com has always been one of the best sites to go to get good items at great prices. The good thing about Ebay is that you can actually bid with a price that you are comfortable paying for the item that you want. Also, you can locate many sellers for specific products that you are seeking, and you may be surprised how the price can vary between one seller and another. Seller ratings on the site depict the credibility of the sellers and you can also read customer reviews on their seller performance and experience with individual buyers. Ebay has separate sub-sites geared to your country of residence and your language. And if auctions are your thing, then check out uBid.com and Amazon Marketplace as well.

User Opinion Reviews
Before you make a purchase, you may want to surf over the Internet so seek reviews of other buyers who have purchased the same product as you. For example, Epinions.com has reviews of practically anything that you want to buy, from electronic items to movies. With great customer review system TripAdvisor.com will help you choose the best hotel for your money. Going through other people’s experiences and rating will definitely help you make a better decision on your purchase.

Forward your shipping date
With the Internet, you can shop all the time the whole year round. There is no need to rush for Christmas or holiday shopping with other shoppers, as some stores allow items to be shipped out at a specified date. This way, you can pre-order your stuff during store promotions or clearance sale, and get it sent to you in time for Christmas. A good way to grab some bargain presents.