How to Save Money by Shopping for Children's Items Online

written by: Sari Holtz

Let’s face it – the challenge of taking your children to a store (ANY store!) is extremely overwhelming. From the whining and begging to the bathroom breaks and fast breaks away from you, taking your child to a store is a task that isn’t for the faint-of-heart. And in your rush to get out of the store, you may inadvertently throw so much stuff in your cart that you may need local movers to help you get home. Fortunately, the invention of the internet has made it possible to shop for your children without taking them to the store. Here are four children’s items that are highly worth buying online so that you can save both money and sanity.

1. Clothing. Children become fashion-conscious from a young age, and if your son or daughter loves getting new clothing, taking him or her to the store can become quite expensive. Instead, sign on to your favorite store (or stores) and browse the clearance sections for items that are in your budget and that you think your child will like. Don’t forget to look for online coupons to maximize your savings. You can also sign up to the newsletters of your favorite stores to get exclusive online deals that will make saving even easier. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, allow your child to choose from the items you’ve selected – you’ll be amazed at how quick and painless the experience can be.
2. Shoes. If you think that it’s too hard to buy shoes online without trying them on, think again. With children, chances are good that if they’ve outgrown their current shoes, they’ll advance to the next size – and that it’ll probably fit just fine. Dragging your child to the store to try on 15 pairs of shoes is a time-consuming, hair-raising experience that can easily be avoided by shopping online. If you order from a local chain retailer you can often return the shoes in the store to avoid return shipping charges. And, oftentimes shoes are cheaper online than they are in the store, so even if you must pay for shipping, you still won’t be overpaying.
3. Dinner. If you’re planning on a family dinner, a great way to save money is to order in. Not only will you avoid paying a steep tip, but you’ll avoid a scene as your child begs you for an expensive desert or can’t make up his mind about which entrée to order. Since most restaurants now offer free delivery and menus online you should have no trouble placing an order and enjoying your dinner at home.
4. Books. Your children either love reading or hate it. But whether they’re begging for every book in the store or refusing to accept any of them, a trip to the bookstore is just asking for trouble. Purchasing your books online can save you big money, especially if you purchase used editions. Make sure you factor shipping costs into the price of the book to ensure that you’re still getting a good deal. When you’re finished, sell your books back and use the money to purchase more books for yourself or your children.

About this Author
Sari Holtz is the blogger for Billy.com, an online savings club that provides great deals on everything from moving services to milk. Follow her on Twitter @Billy_Com.

Posted by Sok on October 20, 2010     Tags: Back to School , Savings for Babies


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