<p>It’s quickly fading from my memory. I know there were once days when I couldn’t sign on and shop, but it’s getting harder and harder to remember. Online shopping has become ubiquitous for most of us. From Amazon to big box retailers to shops at the mall, almost everything you can buy in the store and a little bit more is available online, too.</p>
<p>As we begin to draw nearer to one of the busiest shopping seasons of the year, it’s smart for consumers to revisit basic online shopping safety strategies. Plus, discover what’s new since you last clicked and purchased from your favorite stores.</p>
<p>Look for the lock, shop smart</p>
<p>Anytime you shop online, you need to first guarantee that you’re on a legitimate website. Begin your shopping session by checking and double checking the URL of your web browser. If you see the little lock to the left of the address, you can know the site you’re on is secure.</p>
<p>Beyond the little lock, be suspect of sites that seem too good to be true. Social media feeds often flood with ads for specialty shops (not the well-known retailers most of us frequent) with incredibly low prices. Many of these sites can be secure, but you’ll want to read reviews to make sure that the products aren’t subpar.</p>
<p>List sizes and specs</p>
<p>Online shopping might mean that we can stay at home under a comfy blanket instead of venturing out in the cold and down crowded aisles. However, if you don’t set proper parameters on your efforts, you’ll have boxes arrive with ill fitting items and duplicate purchases.</p>
<p>Make a list of everyone’s sizes and favorites well before you begin. That way, you’ll be able to refer to it all holiday season long. You might even want to create a note on your phone or a document on your computer where you can easily access the information, no matter where you’re at — even in physical stores.</p>
<p>Limit what you can view</p>
<p>Some of us get ourselves in trouble when we stumble upon things we can’t afford. One of the greatest strengths of online shopping is the ability to limit what you see. When possible, set the maximum amount you want to spend when doing a search.</p>
<p>It’s also wise to arrange the items on the page from lowest to highest in price. Wandering eyes lead to empty bank accounts. Be proactive with your approach and use this practice to your budget’s advantage.</p>
<p>Learn the return policy</p>
<p>Sometimes an online purchase doesn’t work out the way we’d hoped. You need to know the return policy well in advance. Be sure to consider the following questions:</p>
<p>Is there a time limit for returns?</p>
<p>Can you bring an item back to a physical store or do you have to ship it?</p>
<p>Do returns cost the consumer the expense of shipping and handling?</p>
<p>How long does it take for a return to process so you receive a refund?</p>
<p>Will refunds be issued credited to your card or bank account or be issued in store credit or gift card form?</p>
<p>Are there gift receipts available to include with the item?</p>
<p>Knowing the answers to the above will help you avoid both heartache and headache if you need to return an item or two. As a side note, Kohl’s now accepts returns from Amazon. Not only can you return the items that didn’t fit the bill, but I’ve also heard reports Kohl’s gives you coupons to encourage some shopping while in the store. Just be sure you begin the return process through Amazon’s website, ensuring you’ve navigated the proper steps before heading to the store.</p>
<p>Locate a free shipping code</p>
<p>I honestly don’t mind paying for shipping if the cost of the expense is worth someone bringing the items I need to my home. In fact, many times, we view shipping as an unnecessary or even exorbitant fee. But when you calculate the time and effort to head to the store, paying for shipping might actually be worth it.</p>
<p>That being said, I’m never going to pay for shipping without looking for a coupon code that might eliminate the extra expense. I like using a site like Rakuten (formerly Ebates) to look for coupon codes and shipping offers. This online portal often gives you a set percentage of cash back for your purchases, too.</p>
<p>If your items ship free at a certain price point on a site, it’s smart to keep a running list of affordable household items you need. Then, you can buy these items to fill the gap between your cart total and the free shipping dollar amount. Insider secret: I often purchase washcloths or bath towels to hit that magic number.</p>
<p>While I can’t see myself exclusively shopping online this holiday season (I love local shops too much!), I do see the convenience as helpful when I have limited time and funds. Coordinate your in-store and online efforts to make the most of every minute and every cent this year.</p>
