22 Amazing Hacks for Online Shopping: A Guide for Indian Shoppers
In the digital age, online shopping has become a staple of our daily lives, especially in a vibrant and diverse market like India. With many options, navigating the online shopping world smartly is essential.
Here, we delve into 22 hacks for Indian consumers to enhance their shopping experience, save money, and make the most of every purchase.
22 Hacks for Online Shopping
1. Compare Prices
Before making any purchase, take a moment to compare prices across different platforms. Tools like PriceDekho, MySmartPrice, and Google Shopping can help you find the best deals by comparing prices of the same product across various e-commerce websites.
2. Coupon Hunting
Remember to underestimate the power of a good coupon. Websites like BlackFridaySale.in, GrabOn, and dealdigit.com are treasure troves of discount codes and coupons for various online stores. Before checking out, quickly search to see if you can snag a discount.
3. Check Out Free Shipping Websites
Shipping costs can sometimes be a dealbreaker. Look for websites that offer free shipping or meet the minimum order value to waive shipping fees. Amazon and Flipkart often offer such offers, especially for their Prime and Plus member.
4. Keep Products in the Cart
Try leaving your chosen products in the cart for a day or two. E-commerce platforms dislike unclosed deals and might offer discounts to encourage a purchase. It’s a psychological play that often works in the shopper’s favor.
5. Check for Best Cashback Offers
Platforms like CashKaro, GoPaisa, and Paytm offer cashback on purchases made through their links. Before buying, check these sites to see if you can earn some money back on your purchase.
6. Sign Up for Newsletters
While it might seem counterintuitive, signing up for newsletters can be beneficial. Online stores often offer exclusive discounts and early sale access to their subscribers. Use a separate email account to avoid cluttering your primary inbox.
7. Use Reward Points
If you’re a frequent shopper, remember to redeem your reward points. Websites like Flipkart, Amazon, and Myntra offer loyalty points that can be converted into discounts on future purchases.
8. Shop on Weekdays
Weekends are prime time for shoppers, and prices can be higher due to increased demand. Shopping on weekdays, especially during off-peak hours, can fetch better deals.
9. Use Credit Cards Wisely
Many credit cards offer rewards, cashback, or EMI options that can make your purchase more worthwhile. Look out for credit card offers on big-ticket items, but be mindful of your spending.
10. Use Multiple Coupon Codes Strategically
Some websites allow the use of multiple coupons on a single purchase. Experiment with different combinations to see which gives you the best discount.
11. Use Trusted Websites
Stick to reputable websites to avoid scams and counterfeit products. Websites like Amazon, Flipkart, and Myntra have established trust with Indian consumers.
12. Create a Wishlist
Most e-commerce platforms allow you to create a wishlist. This is a great way to keep track of items you’re interested in and monitor price drops and special offers.
13. Delete Shopping Apps
If you’re prone to impulse buys, consider deleting shopping apps from your phone. This creates an extra step to access these platforms, giving you more time to consider your purchases.
14. Go Incognito
Prices vary based on your browsing history and location. Use incognito mode to unlock different prices or offers.
15. Organize Your Email
Create filters or labels in your email to sort promotional emails. This way, you can easily access them when you’re ready to shop and ignore them when you’re not.
16. Purchase Gift Cards
Look out for discounts on gift cards during sale seasons. Purchasing a gift card at a lower price can save you money on future purchases.
17. Abandon Your Online Shopping Cart
Like leaving items in your cart, abandoning your cart entirely can prompt retailers to reach out with a special offer to encourage you to complete the purchase.
18. Read Reviews First
Always check product reviews before buying. Reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality and authenticity of the product.
19. Look for Used Items
Consider buying used-for items like books, video games, or electronics. Websites like OLX, Quikr, and even Amazon and Flipkart’s used section offer great deals.
20. Always Look for the Official Website
For brand-specific products, always check the official website. Sometimes, the brand’s site may offer better deals or exclusive products unavailable elsewhere.
21. Discount Filters
Use the discount filters on shopping websites to access products on sale directly. This can significantly reduce browsing time and help you find the best deals quickly.
22. Get Rewards
Join loyalty programs and download apps from your favorite stores for exclusive rewards and discounts. These can add up over time and lead to significant savings.
By incorporating these hacks into your online shopping habits, you can navigate the vast e-commerce landscape in India more efficiently, saving both time and money. Happy shopping!
