Instead of fighting the crowds on Black Friday, many tech-savvy shoppers have opted to save their credit cards for Cyber Monday, the busiest online shopping day of the year. Before you log on, check out our Cyber Monday shopping tips.
Sign up for e-newsletters
Prior to the big day, sign up for e-updates from your favorite online retailers so you’ll be instantly updated of specific Cyber Monday deals and steals when it comes time to do your serious holiday shopping.
Check social media sites
Your favorite sites may post sale alerts on Twitter, Facebook and the like, so be sure to stay tuned in to your social media sites leading up to and on Cyber Monday.
Protect yourself: Safe online shopping >>
Use coupon codes for deeper discounts
Yes, Cyber Monday is all about discounts. But that doesn’t mean you can’t save even more by taking advantage of coupon code sites such as RetailMeNot.com. Log on and customize your account to the types of stores you like shopping at or search your favorite online retailer — you never know what you might find.
Seek out free shipping
Most major retailers will offer free shipping (or some other equally enticing deal or discount) on Cyber Monday. If the site you’re shopping on doesn’t offer any freebies, switch to another site! It’s very likely that a competitor’s site has what you’re looking for… with that coveted free-shipping promise or another freebie tossed in to sweeten the pot!
Save money with coupons >>
Don’t get sucked in
Don’t overbuy just because it seems like you’re getting a deal or getting stuff for free. Make a list and stick to it, unless you come across a good deal on something you have to have or know you or a loved one will really love and use. It’s also a good idea to create a Cyber Monday budget and try not to go beyond it.
Practice safe shopping
Shopping online ensures you’re not going to get mauled by crazy Black Friday shoppers, but that doesn’t mean you’re entirely out of the woods. Cyber Monday has its own set of dangers.
This shopping day is prime time for cyber hackers to strike, so take care that you don’t get scammed. Before you do any online shopping, update your browser to the latest version of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Internet Explorer which have built-in programs to protect you. It’s also a good idea to install updated antivirus software or anti-malware. Don’t open any fishy emails, shop only on secure sites, use a different password for every site and save all purchase documentation.
Tyra Banks wants to help you shop >>
Tell us
What’s your favorite part of holiday shopping? Joining the crowds, shopping online and having all your goods delivered to you or their intended recipients, buying the perfect gifts for all your loved ones or getting the best deals on coveted item? Share with us in the comments below.
More holiday shopping tips
Money- and time-saving holiday shopping tips
Holiday shopping techniques that will help you save this season
The advantage of shopping on Cyber Monday
Leave a Comment