Most people don’t think twice about being online. Social networking, online shopping, blogging, money management – life wouldn’t be complete without the internet.
The way people use it, however, may be costing them money as many go on “autopilot” when they sit in front of their computer, especially when it comes to online shopping.
Here are some bad habits you should be aware of the next time you’re idly clicking away on your mouse.
1. Just browsing
Be careful when you visit retail sites intending just to browse – you might soon find yourself shopping instead. The long, dark rabbit hole you fall into may lead you to look at the products offered, then add things to the cart, and click “checkout” without really thinking about it.
To avoid this, look at stuff on Pinterest instead of directly on retail sites. This may provide a bit of a psychological barrier to actual shopping.
2. Too much Pinterest
Having said the above, Pinterest can also be detrimental to your wallet. While it is a great resource, you might also get sucked in when you find items that cannot be found in stores – or that you would not have even thought to look for in the first place. It is a slippery slope.
3. Filling up that cart too quickly
There is no denying that online retail sites are terrific resources for products. But be careful about filling your shopping cart too quickly, especially as you are lured in by reduced prices or items that are unavailable elsewhere. You might spend more than you intended.
4. Splurging during sale season
9.9 sales! 10.10 sales! 11.11 sales! Monthly specials and holiday discounts are a big draw on online retail sites. These can hook you in and leave you spending more.
If you are absolutely determined to make a purchase or five, set a budget and stick with it.
5. Reading promotional emails
If you are someone who doesn’t click through your inbox and trash promotional emails immediately, this could be your downfall. Resist the temptation to visit sites that send you special offers and discounts.
6. Liking too many pages and profiles
The habit of liking and following too many businesses on social media can come back and bite you. If you have a large number of retailers popping up daily in your news feed, catching your eye with offers and discounts, you’re more likely to want to stop and shop.
Tame the temptation by getting rid of some of them.
7. Spending more for free shipping
While it is always great to get free shipping on purchases, many online retailers push you to spend a certain amount before you get it. In many cases, you could include the delivery and end up spending less than you would with the free-shipping option.
8. Giving to charities
Make no mistake, it is always good to give money to charities and the needy, but sometimes crowdfunding sites can invite you to donate more money than your budget would allow.
If you feel the need to give money, seek out organisations you know and trust, and earmark a set amount.
9. Visiting too many blogs
Blogs can entice you into attempting DIY projects that you have to spend money on. Staying away from them can help you control your budget.
10. Spending too much time online
The best solution to breaking bad online shopping habits? Get offline altogether. If you find you’re joined at the hip to your computer or device, dedicate certain times of the day to being technology-free. Your wallet will thank you.
This article first appeared in The New Savvy.
The New Savvy is Asia’s leading financial, investments and career platform for women. Its vision is to empower 100 million women to achieve financial happiness by delivering high-quality content through conferences, e-learning platforms, personal finance apps and e-commerce stores.