When it comes to online shopping, most people have some experience with big companies like Amazon, Overstock, QVC, Home Shopping Network, and eBay. All have their advantages and pitfalls much like physical stores do. Yet in this time of rising gas prices and the need to save money on groceries and other necessities these online stores can save you both time and money.
Although I’ve shopped at all of the stores mentioned previously, Amazon is my favorite. They have an extremely generous return policy and simplify the process (although I’ve only had to return two items over the last 10 years I’ve shopped there). And Amazon carries more products than most other online retailers. You can literally purchase a HD television, a new bikini, the latest DVD release, a gift basket of fine chocolates or Omaha steaks, and a home gym all in one shopping trip. And many items have free shipping.
Recently Amazon started selling 25.000 items of non-perishable groceries and nearly every one of their grocery items includes free shipping if you purchase a $25 minimum. To make this an even sweeter proposition, Amazon offers both clearance items up to 40 percent off and monthly deals with discounts up to $25 off special purchases. (Example: Save $15 today when you spend $39 or more on any combination of eligible Kashi products and similar deals).
Amazon also features a ‘Subscribe & Save’ option on most groceries. If you know you’ll need that favorite coffee or protein bar delivered every one to six months sign up and save.
Here’s the deal straight from Amazon: “For September, find instant rebates on many popular brands and hard-to-find specialty items, including Kellogg's, Gatorade, Slim Jim, Peter Pan and many more. Find all our current deals in Sales & Special Offers.
Plus, these and all products offered in Grocery are eligible for Amazon Prime and FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25.”
My last order from Amazon included Folgers Gourmet Coffee and DeCecco Pasta and I saved over $15 in instant rebates and another $13 was saved on shipping. I shopped leisurely in my jammies. And I save on gas!
Honorable Mention Shopping Sites:
Lensshopper – Contact Lens Price Comparison
iGourmet - Specialty Cheeses, Fine Foods, Exquisite Gifts
Netrition.com - The Internet's Premier Nutrition Superstore!
