The holidays are a time to relax and enjoy time with family, but unfortunately they can also be a source of intense shopping anxiety. Traffic gets crazy, parking gets difficult, stores are packed, and the prices go up. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be this way! The internet, used properly, can make holidays the joyous time they are supposed to be.

First thing, there are traditional principles of shopping which are also equally effective on the internet. If you are on Ebay or Craigslist and see something that just screams “that is perfect for so and so” in October or November, there is nothing wrong with grabbing it before the holiday rush. These sites are classic places to find unique gifts. Not only might you save on the cost, but it will be tucked away in your closet and ready to go for your gift exchange.

There are many other ways to purchase presents around the holiday season without falling into credit card debt. All you have to do is use the internet in your favour. Another good idea is to sign up for the e-mail newsletter from your favourite stores. Many provide information about upcoming promotions, and some even offer discounts only for internet shoppers. It’s a reliable way to get insider tips before the holidays, when they’re sure to have an abundance of promotions.

There are several blog directories which guide specific demographics of consumers towards products they would be inclined to buy: fathers, teenagers, etc. Blogtopsites.com is a good place to start, and there are multiple other sites similar in nature.

With its natural ability as a mass communicator, the internet can leverage consumer buying power in a way previously unimaginable. The principle is as follows: companies give consumers between 50-90% discounts provided a certain amount of people commit to purchasing their product. This way, they are assured of meeting their margins, and the customer receives massive discounts. The products for purchase range in everything from theatre tickets, restaurants, spa packages, artwork, and even tickets to galleries. The products (before the discount is applied) can be relatively inexpensive, but sometimes you can save hundreds of dollars on big ticket items.

Two reputable sites to look for deals are Groupon and Wagjag, and here’s how they work:Join their mailing list to receive information about the deal of the day in your inbox. And don’t worry, these sites have deals arranged with companies all across North America in cities big and small. The process is similar to an Ebay bid, only you bid with the people instead of against them. First, you indicate commitment to purchasing their deal. If the required number of people buys it then you get the deal. Of course you won’t be charged if the target number isn’t reached.

Companies are attracted to this because they receive business and exposure, so this form of purchasing is growing exponentially. Everyone wins! By signing up for these sites and others like it, you can find out about great deals well before the holiday rush. Even if it’s December 24th these sites will always be cheapest.

Happy shopping!

Author Bio: Need debt consolidation advice? Then find out how debt counselling and credit counselling can help improve your financial troubles from the experts at Consolidated Credit.

Category: Finances
Keywords: credit cards, credit, debt, finance, money