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5 Cyber Monday Shopping Tips

  • Updated: October 19, 2012

Considered by many to be the day to grab the steepest online discounts of the year, Cyber Monday attracts more than 80 million shoppers seeking fantastic deals for the holiday season—minus the traffic, the crowds and the frayed tempers.

Black Friday is the ultimate test of patience and endurance in the name of retail. While many finish the day with everything on their lists, some are left wondering about their missed opportunities. Luckily Cyber Monday makes many of those missed opportunities and deals just a click away. Here are a few things to keep in mind this Cyber Monday:

1. Do Your Research

Despite avoiding some of the headaches of Black Friday, Cyber Monday has a few small drawbacks of its own—most notably, you can’t see, touch or test things in person. Of course, if you’re already familiar with a particular brand or product, that won’t be an issue. But if you’re venturing into new product territory, it’s best to research the items on your list ahead of time. Combing through manufacturer’s websites, reading reviews by both experts and customers, and even surveying your family, friends and coworkers will make clicking “BUY” a little easier and a lot less mysterious.

2. Search for Online Deals

The great thing about shopping online is the instant access to information, including exclusive online coupon codes and cash back for purchases. If you’re savvy, go ahead and sign up to receive emails from your favorite retailers to find out what they’re offering and check out special deal sites for the latest offers.

3. Consider Shipping

When you’re shopping online, one of your considerations has to be how to you will receive your order—and shipping can make or break a deal. Before you finalize your purchase, make sure to review the website’s shipping policy and find out if they offer free shipping promotions. Retailers often provide free or upgraded shipping if you purchase a certain amount or a particular product. Be sure to take advantage of gift-wrapping and other special add-ons to make your holidays easier.

4. Use Your Social Networks

Twitter and Facebook can be a goldmine for Cyber Monday deals. Follow your favorite retailers, search keywords and hashtags, and find posts that may lead to special offers from retailers and online coupon sites. You can also use your own network of friends and followers to get user reviews and see what deals they found. The best thing to do is to just ask.

5. Look for Security

At this time of year, it’s especially important to guard against identity theft and other online fraud, particularly when you are asked to provide credit card numbers. Often the website address alone will help you determine your level safety. Website addresses that begin with “https://” indicate the site is secure, and a locked padlock icon on the pagewill confirm that your personal information is transmitted safely.

10 Reasons to Love Cyber Monday

Some shoppers love the thrill of the early-morning hunt for a great deal, but finding an amazing offer online can be just as satisfying. Here are just a few reasons why Cyber Monday shopping can be just as good as the Black Friday experience, maybe even better.

1

Find great deals without having to endure the long lines, crowds, traffic and 4 a.m. doorbuster madness.

2

Get what you want and have it delivered right to your door—no need to figure out how you’ll fit everything into the car.

3

Shop in your pajamas from the comfort of your own couch. Or bed. Or lawn furniture. Worst-case scenario: from your desk, phone or tablet at work (while on your break, of course).

4

Enjoy easy access to yummy Thanksgiving leftovers.

5

You don’t need to worry about an “accidental” elbow to your stomach from an overly aggressive shopper.

6

Get deals and save money while watching your favorite TV show or holiday movie.

7

You’ll save gas since shopping online doesn’t require you to jump in your car and sit in traffic.

8

Your feet cannot possibly get sore from clicking deals with your mouse.

9

If one site runs out of the product you want, chances are you can find it on another site in less time than it would take you to drive to another store.

10

Did we mention the lines?

Have you ever enjoyed the convenience of shopping on Cyber Monday? Share your Cyber Monday tips and stories in the comments below.


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