Less Known Online Shopping and Money Saving Tips

In the current economic environment shoppers are stretched and consumer debt is high. Saving money as well as getting great shopping deals is more important than ever before. Here are some less known shopping and saving tips in addition to all the other things you already do to save money.

Find first-time customer specials and discounts

Many online retailers offer discounts or specials to first time customers. If you qualify as a first time customer and decide to make a purchase, then look around for such offers.

Take advantage of coupons and rebates

Do you believe that coupons and rebates are not for you? Wrong! They are for smart people like you. Find them and use them!

Get lowest price guarantee and price matching refunds

Did you know that many retailers offer lowest price guarantees or have a price matching policy? This means that even after a purchase you can still save money.

Let's say a retailer has a 30 day Post-Order Price Guarantee, if you buy a product from such a retailer and within 30 days of your purchase the price drops, you can claim a refund.

Price!pinx allows shoppers to request price drop alerts for any product on almost any retailer's website. The free service smoothly integrates into your online shopping experience by using a smart bookmarklet. It saves you money and time.

Here is a list of major retailers along with a link to their actual price guarantee policy.

Don't buy things you don't need because you are bored

We shop because it gives us satisfaction and because we have too much free time and would otherwise be bored. Do something valuable with your time instead!

You can help others and find great satisfaction by volunteering some of your time. Or how about reading something on personal finance? You will be surprised by realizing how fulfilling and fun it is to help others or get your personal finances organized.

Check all your bills

Check all your credit card bills for unauthorized charges and for overcharges. Even more important, check your utility bills. Especially cable and phone companies frequently add new services or fees you don't recognize to your bill. It could be a service you don't want or a fee they shouldn't be charging you. Call them up, ask them about it, and request for a credit if it is incorrect or unwanted.

Getting great deals and saving money is very satisfying. See the challenge in saving money and you will find it to be as rewarding as spending money.