The Better Business Bureau offers some helpful suggestions for safe online shopping.
For me, as soon as I make that swishing motion of running a debit or credit card, it becomes magic money. For that reason, I’ve learned it is MUCH better for me to shop with cash. That being said, I can generally shop online with more discipline. I can put something in my virtual cart and then take it out again without any embarrassment or need to put it back. I can easily research the item while I have it pulled up. I can save things in my cart so I can think about it and not lose it again. I can search multiple stores until I find JUST the right thing. I’ve done this with wallets, rugs, dishes and tableware with great success. I can even find dishes at one store and linens at another. This way I can see that they match and order them, all within my budget. I often use national stores, and can even use coupons and get free shipping. If I had to do all that work in person, I might end up buying things that aren’t quite right.
Another issue I’ve learned to be careful of is “pulling the trigger” too quickly. I type very quickly and can finish a purchase before I’ve really checked all the specifications. Luckily, with stores that have local locations, I can return items in person or ship them back. Check that return policy. Most of the “big guys” have very liberal policies.
The most vital thing to remember here is ANY shopping absolutely needs to be within your budget. Enjoy your shopping experience, with care.