How to buy online and save

Savvy shoppers can bag a bargain all year round, writes

Mid-year sales are a great time to snap up bargains but savvy shoppers should always be hunting for discounts online regardless of the time of year.

Huge savings can be made with smart online shopping strategies, consumer specialists say. It often starts with finding a loyalty or rewards program that works for you.

Cashback World head of ecommerce Vanessa Ferrao

Anthony Keane

said there was a “dizzying amount” of credit card reward schemes and in-store loyalty programs, plus several cashback programs offering instant rewards of up to 5 per cent on purchases.

“The majority of loyalty programs are free to join so you can start shopping and saving right away,” she said.

“However, watch out for any sneaky credit card fees.”

Shoppers who prefer to buy from bricks and mortar retailers can still use the internet as a handy tool.

Ms Ferrao said consumers should compare items online then ask for further discounts.

“With smartphones making price research easier and quicker than ever, you can search for the best deals online while you’re in-store,” she said.

Another savings strategy when online can be to abandon your shopping cart temporarily.

“Many global retailers adopt the re-targeting strategy of sending you a unique promo code to entice you to check out, which means getting a discount you would not have normally received if you purchased right away,” Ms Ferrao said.

Mybudget founder and director Tammy Barton said online shoppers should also look out for coupons.

“Stores will regularly offer promo codes and coupons – particularly to new customers,” she said. “Don’t dismiss the ‘10 per cent off’ pop-up when you click on a site – take a screen shot for future use if it isn’t the right time for you to buy.”

Ms Barton said consumers should take advantage of retailers’ offers to beat competitors’ pricing.

“Many online stores – like their brick and mortar counterparts, will guarantee to beat their competitors,” she said.

Officeworks had a guarantee to beat a rival’s price by 5 per cent, even for items on sale, she said. Saving money online also happens when you avoid traps.

“Make sure you only use reputable sites, and always check the terms and conditions to ensure there isn’t a ‘no refunds allowed’ clause – particularly with big ticket items, or clothes, where size is a factor,” Ms Barton said.

Keep an eye out for free delivery, or stock up on multiple items in one big order, to reduce or eliminate the delivery costs.

“And know the exchange rate. Many international websites display their prices in their native currency, or, if global, it’s often US Dollars,” Ms Barton said.