1. Check out the competition.
And no, we don’t mean competing products. We mean other online retailers who carry the same product you’re interested in purchasing. Perhaps they have a 10% off coupon you can snag, or GASP, maybe the item was just priced lower in the first place (you’d be surprised at how often this happens). Also, certain items might go on sale on one site sooner than the rest, so take the extra five minutes and really do your research.
2. Use Google Shopping.
Google’s Shopping tab comes in handy when you’re buying makeup or clothing (or whatever else) that’s sold on multiple sites. It allows you to compare prices side by side, as well as see whether or not tax is charged, and if so, how much. Plus, the shipping charges are right there for you too. The best feature? Total price. Finally you don’t have to waste your precious time trying to figure out which place would be the cheapest for you to order from. Ah, you can now breathe a sigh of relief.
3. Get on the list.
Pretty much every online store you visit these days has a popup as soon you open their website offering free shipping or a small discount just for entering your email address. Take advantage. Ongoing, you’ll be the first to hear about new markdowns and receive promo codes simply for being on the list. Many sites also offer a percentage off your first purchase, helping you save even more dough.
4. Score deep discounts on deal sites.
Daily deal sites like Hautelook, Gilt, Rue La La and so many more offer online shoppers the unique opportunity to snatch up designer goods (think clothing, shoes, jewelry, home goods, etc.) at deeply discounted prices. But beware: in some instances, the items found on here are already on sale elsewhere on the Internet…and for less!
5. Search for coupons.
Sure, it tacks on a couple extra minutes, but a quick Google search to find a coupon for the site you’re shopping on could pay off big. Hit up sites like RetailMeNot and CouponCabin to see if one’s available. You won’t luck out every time. However, we guarantee you will enough to make the additional time spent well worth it.
6. Go bananas on your b-day.
There’s no better time than your birthday to rack up on the savings! If you’re smart and signed up for an account on your favorite site(s), you’ll most likely be receiving a birthday gift in the form of a sweet discount. For example, Anthropologie sends its members a 15% off code to use anytime during your birthday month.
7. Buy it on eBay.
eBay is a go-to resource for savvy online shoppers hoping to save a buck or two wherever possible. Not only can you find brand new gear for way below regular retail prices, but you can also score amazing vintage duds (and gently used clothing and accessories too) for low, low costs. Seriously, check it out.
image: Getty
