Shopping online is a convenient option for many necessities and wants but, just as you would in-store, you want to make sure you’re getting the best deal at the virtual checkout as well.

Online shopping might seem like an easy task, but the larger selection can feel overwhelming as you browse for what you need, and the ease of making purchases can often lead to impulse buys. Thankfully, there are some strategies you can use to secure lower prices and take advantage of deals from retailers that you shop with often. Follow these five tips to start saving today.

1. Start by making a list

Just like in brick-and-mortar stores, it can help to have a shopping list ready before you start filling up your online shopping cart. A shopping list is a great way to stop yourself from making impulse buys, which is easy to do online as all it takes is a single click. It is also very easy to get distracted by recommended items and other promotions that may pop up on the screen. Stick to your list, and you’ll only spend what you intended.

2. Make an account with your favourite retailers

When shopping online, it’s good practice not to check out as a guest, especially with a retailer that you plan on using again. Many sites offer reward programs that let you earn points on purchases, which you can then apply to your next order. It’s an effective way to save money with your favourite retailers, particularly on clothing. You may even have the option to save by subscribing to regular purchases on items you use frequently.

3. Sign up for newsletters from your favourite retailers

Another way to take advantage of deals is to sign up for newsletters and coupons from the online retailers you frequent. You’ll regularly receive promotions and codes for discounts, as well as notifications about free shipping and other timely offers. If you’re worried about cluttering your email inbox, then consider setting up a separate address just for shopping.

4. Compare prices before you buy

One of the best things about online shopping is how easy it is to compare prices and see if you can get a better deal somewhere else. Before hitting the checkout button, simply check other stores or copy the product name into Google and see what else comes up. This is a particularly effective strategy for more expensive items, on which other retailers may be offering a discount.

5. Play the waiting game

One trick that many experienced online shoppers use to try and get a good deal is to put some items in their shopping cart and leave them for a while. Before long, you might receive an email encouraging you to come back and finish your purchase, along with an enticing discount. If there’s something you don’t need right away but that would be nice to have, this is a good strategy to try.

Online shopping offers a number of benefits that you can use to your advantage, whether you’re looking for clothes, books, electronics, home supplies, or gifts. Start saving today by applying some of these tips before the next time you check out.