by Sandra Piddock

Created on: November 28, 2008   Last Updated: February 12, 2010

I'm a great advocate of online shopping, especially around Christmas, when the shops are so crowded. Isn't it so much more sensible to sit in the comfort of your own home, the computer screen obligingly displaying a vast array of gifts for you to click and buy? What more could you want to put you in a festive mood - apart from perhaps a glass of wine at your elbow!

Online shopping is the best way to shop for books and DVDs, as you will find great choice at huge discounts on high street prices. It can also be quicker to shop online if you are looking for a particular title, as all you have to do is 'Google' it and you'll be presented with options and prices. DVDs are usually postage free as well, so you get a great deal delivered to your home within a couple of days.

If you use a cashback shopping portal such as Greasy Palm when you shop online, you can also build up a nice little nest egg, as well as getting some great deals. Use your cashback for a special treat for yourself, or to do more online shopping.

Buying wines online is a good way to buy, as you will receive exclusive case deals which are not available in the shops. Better still, you don't have to struggle home with weighty bottles. Around Christmas time, many online wine retailers offer some great discounts on quality wines which would otherwise be out of your reach. The only drawback is that delivery charges can wipe out your savings. Get around this by putting in a bulk order with one or two friends in order to qualify for free delivery to a single address.

If you love Avon Cosmetics but don't have an Avon Lady in your area, you can buy online. You don't need to put in a huge order to qualify for free delivery, but again you could always get together with friends. Many cosmetic brands can be bought online with big discounts, although I'd hesitate to buy makeup online unless there was an unconditional returns policy. What looks good on the web page may not look quite so good on you when it is delivered.

Online shopping is a great way of browsing for gifts if you haven't got a clue what to buy Uncle Bert for Christmas. Just 'Google' 'gifts for men over 60' and browse through the results. It beats fighting your way through crowded stores in the middle of winter, and online is often the best place to buy unusual gifts at the right price.

The only thing I would not consider buying online is groceries. Yes, I know it can be a time saver, and can work out cheaper as you are not tempted by impulse purchases, but I prefer to choose my own food, thank you very much. I may be a bit cynical here, but I can't help thinking the online shoppers are going to end up with the stuff that nobody wants to buy in the store. And what about the short dated, reduced fresh food items? My freezer is full of them, and I'd miss out if I did my food shopping online.

There are drawbacks with online shopping, of course. Unless you're very self-disciplined, you could end up spending more than you can really afford, but then you could do that in the high street as well. And if you need something quickly, it may be better to go out and buy it rather than put your trust in promised delivery dates.

On the whole, though, online shopping is the best way to shop, as long as you use reputable suppliers with a proven customer service record. And when you fire up the computer, set your mind to the cynical setting, just to be on the safe side. If something appears too good to be true, it probably is, so take care out there!

Learn more about this author, Sandra Piddock.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.