Answering the door to a new package via DHL almost feels like Christmas until you get the shipping bill or realize the product isn’t exactly what you had pictured. Whether it’s because the size, feel or colour of the item is different than expected or because the product is poorly manufactured, shopping online can be a disappointing experience.

The vast availability of products online makes it easy for shoppers to overspend and because return policies for online shopping are often a hassle, buying items over the web can be a great way to waste money.

There are certain tips you can follow, however, to ensure you shop smart.

1.      Stick to brands you know: If you know how a certain brand or style fits you, you’ll be more likely to approve of the product once you receive it.

2.      Avoid impulse shopping: Try leaving your computer for a while and revisiting your shopping cart. Did you really need all that stuff? Don’t shop when you’re bored, either.

3.      When shopping for clothes, check the quality of the fabrics with what you already have in your closet. This will help you compare how a certain fabric fits and reacts to washing and drying.

This is especially important when buying jeans. Purchasing jeans online is never a good idea, but if you must, look for something with a little bit of stretch. Lycra or spandex in jeans adds a little give if the pair you ordered is just a bit too small.

4.      Always read product reviews. There are various third-party sites you can check out for product reviews. People often post reviews on sites like Youtube and Resellerratings.com.

5.      Beware of hidden shipping charges: Some websites like ASOS and Karmaloop will charge you twice for shipping, once when initially ordering the item and a second time based on the weight of the package at delivery. This often happens when ordering from other countries.

6.      Some sites, including ASOS, have a feature called catwalk where you can watch a model walk in the outfit. Use this if it’s available.

Now, if you’re still positive you want to go online to make some fall purchases, these sites will ease your online shopping experience:

The Hunt

If you know what you want but you don’t know where to find it check out thehunt.com. The site that works much like LoveIt or Pinterest; it’s based on member feedback. If you’re obsessed with a dress, coffee mug or pair of sneakers, you can post a photo of the product online and other users will link you to a site that sells the item. This is also a good place to browse for outfit ideas or to spend your money irresponsibly.

Amazon

Amazon is similar to eBay and carries a wide variety of products. It carries everything from baby strollers to video games but specializes in books. The site is secure and will refund your money if the seller doesn’t come through. Used books on Amazon start at 1 cent but you’ll still have to pay $6.49 for shipping. The biggest downside of Amazon is that shipping dates can be unreliable.

Karmaloop

Karmaloop sells clothing and accessories for men and women. Most of the brands are familiar and can be found in Saskatoon, but the selection is extensive. A lot of the photos on Karmaloop are small and it’s difficult to tell how well the products are made. This makes rules one and three important. This site uses DHL as a distributor in Canada and charges twice for shipping. However, Karmaloop is great with customer service and if you’re a member expect to be sent a lot of coupons. It’s worth the time it takes to check your email in order to catch a deal.

Etsy

Etsy is a conglomerate of small businesses owners selling their art and products online. This site sells a lot of great jewelry, home-sewn clothes and interesting knick-knacks. All costs are included in the price you pay online but shipping times and product quality vary. At Etsy you can choose to directly contact the retailer and even commission custom pieces.

Beyond the Rack

Sites like Beyond the Rack almost force customers to make impulse purchases. At Beyond the Rack, prices of the designer products are drastically reduced but the site sets a timer for an item once you’ve placed it in your shopping cart. This gives shoppers a sense of urgency, and you shouldn’t buy items when you are rushed. Although the deals are considerable at Beyond the Rack, your purchase isn’t guaranteed. There’s a chance they’ll run out of the product, let you pay and have to refund your money later because they oversold the item.

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Graphic: Samantha Braun/The Sheaf