Ready, set, shop!
14 May 2013
Shopping from the comfort of your lounge has never been easier.
Why buy online?
Since 2006, the average amount spent online per Australian in a year has doubled from $1048 to $2108, according to research by www.competitions.com.au.
This is because it is simple. Whether you are booking a plane ticket, buying the latest Patricia Cornwell novel, a present for a family member living overseas or booking your car in for a service, the internet is often the most convenient way to shop, as well as an easy tool to compare prices.
It’s no longer just about buying a fashionable handbag or a new pair of golf clubs that aren't available in your local store; there are also unique experiences, services and products on offer to suit many needs.
What we buy online
Travel
Booking flights or accommodation online can provide you with the best price available without the booking fees charged by agents. As long as you know where to look and wait for sales, you will get the best price every time.
Books and DVDs
You may avoid retail mark-ups by purchasing books and DVDs from overseas. These products often retail at close to half the price overseas and if you combine orders with friends, you can split the delivery fee to save a small fortune.
Computers and gadgets
This is one of the largest online retail sectors. You may save 10–20 per cent by purchasing new computers, smartphones, cameras, televisions and many other electronic devices online.
Clothing
As long as you know your measurements, purchasing clothes online is simple. Not only does it avoid walking the equivalent of a marathon through shopping centres, you can also save 10–30 per cent off retail prices. Just be careful of fakes if buying clothing from overseas.
Cosmetics
Cut out the middleman and buy perfume, make-up and many other cosmetic products at up to 35 per cent off retail prices by going direct or buying from international online-only stores. Cosmetics and fragrances was the fastest growing online retail sector in 2012. Beware though, some stores may be selling fake or out-of-date products. Ask your friends (or, better yet, your daughters and granddaughters) what sites they have used and trust.
Group buying
Group buying is a new way of purchasing that involves products, services and experiences being put up for sale daily at a discounted rate with a limited purchase timeframe.
The group buying website negotiates a discounted rate with the manufacturer on the condition that a high number of items will be sold, giving each consumer a great deal.
There are more than 100 different group buying websites operating out of Australia with the big five being Groupon, Living Social, Spreets, Deals.com.au and Cudo.
For more on group buying sites, see Get the most out of daily deals.
A word of warning: with such high numbers of each product, service or experience being purchased, wait times for delivery of products or availability of appointments can be longer than usual.
®