Thinking about shopping but tired of crowded malls and long checkout lines, what’s the solution? Though offline shopping is still a huge hassle, platforms like “cartup” make everything easier. Online shopping has already become a major part of everyday life, and knowing how to shop online can save you time, effort, and money. But if you’re new to the game, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Here’s a complete beginner’s guide to online shopping with everything you need to know. Here it goes:
Why Shop Online?
There are several reasons why millions of people prefer online shopping rather than offline shopping. Online shopping is convenient, time-saving and comes with better deals. The best part is that shoppers now can compare product prices, read reviews and even get doorstep delivery– all from your phone and laptop.
Step-by-Step: How to Shop Online for the First Time
If you are someone who has just started online shopping for the first time, here are a few things you should consider before ordering something online. Today, online shopping is easier than you think. Here’s what helps:
1. Choose the authentic platform: Start with well-known or reputed online shopping marketplaces like “cartup” to ensure a safe shopping experience.
2. Browse or search for products: In every online marketplace, there is a search bar; now use the search bar or product filters to find what you are looking for.
3. Read reviews: Before placing the order, read product reviews- they are gold. Customers often share what photos don’t portray.
4. Compare prices: Compare prices on different sites because there are a few marketplaces which offer amazing offers and deals.
5. Check policies: Every online marketplace has a policy. Verify their product return and refund policy, and other information about online purchasing.
6. Buy instantly or add to cart: When you are ready to purchase the product, click “Buy Now” or click “Add to Cart”. It is advisable to double-check size, quantity, shipping charges and delivery dates.
No Credit Card? No Problem
Wondering how to shop online without a credit card? No worries, you’re not alone. One of the biggest myths is that you have to have a credit card while shopping online. Which is absolutely not true. Most online stores offer multiple payment options. Here’s how to shop online without even credit card:
1. Cash on Delivery (COD): There’s an option to pay when the product arrives, which is cash on delivery. The safest and best for beginners.
2. Debit cards: In most of the online shops, there’s an option to pay through debit cards.
3. Mobile wallets: It’s easier and secure for most beginners. Apps like bKash, Nagad, Upay work well
4. Bank transfer: Though it’s often used for local platforms.
However, some online shops offer instalment plans as well. Choose what you’re most comfortable with and start your online shopping journey.
Staying Safe While You Shop
Online safety is very crucial nowadays. Here’s how to shop online safely:
1. Shop on renowned platforms and secure sites, and make sure “HTTPS” is in the URL.
2. Avoid clicking phishing sites, ads or links.
3. It is advisable not to share public WI-FI when making online transactions
4. Don’t save card details on public devices
5. Never even share your OTPs or card info,o or passwords with anyone
6. Use strong and unique passwords,and often change them as well.
7. Lastly, beware of deals that look too good to be true.
Even after taking these precautions, scams still do exist, but most are avoidable if you stay a little bit more alert.
Smart Habits to Build from Day One
Online shopping is not just about buying, it’s about buying smartly anytime & anywhere. Here are a few habits to develop:
1. Start with small things. In the first place, order a low-cost item to test the entire process.
2. Every online platform offers tracking options, so you can track your order you know when it arrives.
3. Review the return and refund policy before buying anything online
4. Don’t get panicked easily if delivery gets delayed. Sometimes, some delays are normal, still if you are worried about communicating with their customer support team.
Online shopping is now simple, secure and even fun. Knowing how to shop online for the first time can be pretty overwhelming. However, just come down, choose the right platform, be aware of basic safety tips and stay informed to have an amazing online shopping experience.
It’s your money—spend it wisely & smartly.
