How to make your online Christmas shopping secure

Watch out for dodgy ‘bargains’ and other spending pitfalls during this festive season, says Vicky Shaw

The Christmas shopping season can often lead to scenes of panicbuying on the high street, as shelves are raided and items thrown into trollies.

But the Covid-19 pandemic means things are different this year and much more of our festive spending will take place online.

Here, consumer rights expert Martyn James, of Resolver.co.uk, outlines the Christmas shopping pitfalls to keep in mind this season, and how to avoid them.

1. Unexpected costs could blow your budget, so leave extra margins.

Once you have an idea about how much cash you have left over, factoring in food, bills and other costs, make sure you put at least an e xtra 10% of what remains to one side for unexpected Christmas bills. Also bear in mind items you have already bought online may not have been debited from your account yet, so factor in those purchases too.

2. Remember orders could take longer than expected to arrive – leave yourself time.

Fo c u s early on the important gifts, so they have got plenty of time to arrive. You can always leave decorations and food until nearer the time.

3. “Bargains” may not be all they seem, so be cynical.

It can be very difficult to work out what is actually a bargain or what is just on sale, as prices often fluctuate. For key gifts, go on to the manufacturer’s website and check out their recommended retail price.

These prices are sometimes a little higher than the goods usually sell for, but it’s a good measure for comparing prices online. Also, have a look at some of the retailer price comparison websites.

4. Some firms or items may also be fake, so make sure you know who you are buying from.

Mr James says he has been inundated with complaints from people during 2020 about fake firms and dodgy retailers.

To avoid being ripped off, check you are on a genuine website.

Wa t c h out for bad spelling, addresses that do not seem UK-based and very little legal or contact information. Also, be aware if items are priced in foreign currency.

This does not mean the firm is dodgy, but it does indicate the goods will be coming from abroad, which could mean long delivery times and potential delays, as well as issues if you want to return items that are not up to scratch.

5. Putting Christmas on credit may be tempting but it could bring added stress in 2021.

It may be particularly tempting to borrow money for a memorable Christmas, given how volatile 2020 has been. But it may only increase the stress and pressure you find yourself under in 2021.

Buy now, pay later deals are huge right now. These allow you pay in instalments, often at a set rate of interest, but think carefully about whether the stress and pressure of the debt will really be worth it.

BROWSING: With the background of the pandemic, much more of our festive spending will take place online this year.