I talked about making a list, and staying organized, but I also have a ton of tips on how to use technology for holiday shopping to save money and keep you from getting scammed. The info was shared via two online conferences I recently attended. The experts who shared their expertise were:
Bank of America “Shop, Save and Be Tech Savvy” experts:
- Omar Wasow: tech guru,internet analyst, founder of BlackPlanet.com
- Michele Madhok: deal finder, founder of SheFinds.com and MomFinds.com.
Global Influence video conference experts:
How To Be Tech Savvy When Shopping
Here’s a synopsis of the tips these experts shared about using technology for holiday shopping.
Use apps to find deals:
- Red Laser: scan any UPC code and find the cheapest price for that item online
- Yowza: find coupons and discounts for retailers nationwide (note: I haven’t been able to find many deals in my area, but it’s a promising app)
- your bank’s site: keep track of your spending, and pay bills while on the go
- Mint.com: to keep track of your budget
Follow your fav brands: follow your favorite brands for discounts, special offers, and giveaways.Ways you can follow:
- twitter: some retailers even have special twitter sale accounts
- facebook: become a fan, join discussions, and keep an eye out for giveaways
- email newsletters: use your sale mail account, or a filter so you aren’t tempted to buy when it’s not in your budget
- apps: Many retailers now have apps, some offer special discounts via their apps.
- contact the company: Love a product, and want to tell everyone you meet about it? Contact the company and tell them! They may be willing to send you coupons, or even free products.
Set up price alerts: since you know what you are shopping for already, set up alerts for when those items go on sale. Sites you can use:
Comparison shop online: Even if you find a better deal in a brick and mortar store, doing a little research will let you know when you’ve truly found a good deal.
Use your resources to find discounts.
Bank of America has Add it Up which saves you up to 20% at online retailers. Other cards offer discounts on various retailers. Or you can shop for the extra points whether you have a cashback card or a card that rewards you with frequent flier miles. RetailMeNot offers discounts and coupon codes.
For special deals from retailers
On Cyber Monday, go to CyberMonday.com and find a plethora of deals to choose from. Some retailers are starting their online sales now, so be sure to check them before CyberMonday as well.
Stay safe when you shop:
- Know your retailers.
- Uuse ripoff report or the BBB to find scam sites
- Look for httpS:// when you are on the payment page
- Use this opportunity to update virus protection software before you shop. AVG offers free downloads of virus scan and link scan.
All these tips were provided to me to share with my readers, and I did not receive compensation for writing this post. I have not used all the sites above, so please use your own judgement.
Do you have any tips about how you use technology for holiday shopping? I’d love to read them in the comments!
Kelly
Holiday Shopping Guide 2009
- I don’t do Black Friday: This is my 1st post in the series. I talk about why I don’t shop for “deals” on Black Friday.
- How to spend smarter this holiday season: my 1st of 2 guest posts over at Consumerism Commentary. I cover ways to spend less, including handmaking gifts and decreasing your shopping list. Please head over and leave me a comment. ?
- Shopping Lists: How to craft a shopping list for holiday gift giving.
- Photo Gifts and Giveaway: Photos are one of my favorite gifts to give!
- Crocs: Yes some of them are hideous, but some of them are adorable, and so comfy too. Crocs is offering 10% off and free shipping through the holidays.
- Posh Gifts for Less: and a $10 bonus for signing up with Rue La La. They are also offering free shipping after your first order.
- Free photo book: Offer may still be valid.
- Restaurant.com Coupon Code: These make a great gift for someone you want to spend more time with, or a supplement for a gift certificate.
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