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Blifaloo’s Guide to Shopping Online
Written for the non-experienced
I often get asked for advice about shopping online — as my friends know that I am an Amazon and Ebay shop-a-holic. This guide is written for those new to online shopping…right in time for holiday shopping (but still viable for the rest of the year).
I never liked Christmas shopping. Crowds, weather, parking, lines, waiting…waiting…waiting. Ugh.
Why Shop Online? To avoid headaches plus get all your pressies delivered to your (or your gift recipients) door. Last update: April 14th, 2013
My Top Online Shopping Destinations
These are companies I have dealt with and personally recommend. Disclosure: Some links include my affiliate ID — so if you buy from them, I receive a commission. Thanks. 🙂
Amazon.com
– If you are in the US, you can buy almost anything you can imagine from Amazon.com. Most people know that you can get books from Amazon, but they have everything: electronics, clothing, outdoors… even steaks. Delivered to your door… Yum. They also deliver internationally, but not their entire catalog.
ThinkGeek.com
– If you need a unique gift, ThinkGeek is a fun place to shop online.
Scientifics Online – More geek stuff. Lots of great educational toys for kids, and science gadgets and hobbies for all ages.
Big Fish Games – If you know someone addicted to online games, you could give the gift of carpel tunnel. Big Fish Games specializes in puzzle, strategy and farming-type games.
Palmer Cash Retro T-shirts – Rad t-shirts… pretty good prices.
6dollarshirts.com – Cheap, cheap, cheap t-shirts. Only $6 each.
eBay.com – I questioned whether or not I should include the all-mighty eBay on this list. I love eBay… and it can be a safe place to shop — but only if you know what to look out for.
I could write a whole ‘nother guide on tips for safe ebay shopping — but that will have to wait for another day. See resources below for links to eBay tips.
Getting Gifts Fast or Free
There are many online stores that offer expedited shipping options. Amazon.com has great delivery options for US customers.
I help work on a site geared towards UK online shopping called LateLateGifts.co.uk — which specializes in helping you find the perfect gift with either Next Day or Same Day delivery options. Late Late Gifts USA for the states… and Late Late Gifts Canada are in the works — stay tuned.
My other site GiftNinja.com features a list of sites that offer instant delivery on gift certificates. Also see my DIY Gift Ideas for free/cheap homemade presents.
Safe Shopping Tips
Credit Card Purchases are relatively safe when it comes to online shopping. Remember to shop at reputable online retailers, and follow basic online security measures (up-to-date virus protection, using strong passwords, etc.).
Please read our guide on: How to Keep Your Parents Safe from the Internet. It covers common online scams and how to avoid them, along with tips for making secure passwords, etc.
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