We all know the Christmas saying "Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas" but lately it feels like it should be changed to "Have yourself a Crazy Little Christmas". When it comes to buying gifts for our loved ones, we have to not only brave the lines and impatient people at the stores but we also have to "bravely" open our wallets just to see if we can afford these gifts. Well, during this holiday season, I plan on doing all of my shopping online and in the "sanity" of my own home. When going exploring on the web and making these purchases, I have to be just as aware as when buying "offline" and in the stores.
Just as we shop in the local stores in our own neighborhood, we have to just as careful when shopping online. I suggest taking some time and reviewing some key items when going to those deals and dispense your hard earned money towards those gifts. Two websites that I have been using are http://www.safeshopping.org/tips.shtml and http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt082.shtm . Both of these websites suggest ideas like getting product reviews and alternate prices, ask about refund/return policies, and is using a credit card, cash, or checks safer?
When shopping for that perfect gift during this holiday season, the last thing we need is to disappoint or be disappointed in the item we give(or get for our ownself). I know I can enjoy presenting a gift if I feel confident in what I bought and who I bought it from. I also know that I can focus a whole lot more without having to stand in long lines after fighting that one desperate parent for the last gift on the shelf.
Happy Holidays!!
