The Thanksgiving turkey and dressing are gone and the shopping is in full swing, but in a true sign of the times, the shopping carts online are the ones that are being filled. Lynn Martinez explains why online shopping is booming this season in tonight's Money Monday.
WSVN — Shopping online isn't new but for the first time ever cyber shopping is clicking its way to the number one spot for holiday gifts this season.
Rosie Moan: “More than ever, this year, I think, it's going to be online primarily and be able to get the best discounts.”
According to a survey of 5,000 U.S. shoppers 47 percent say the internet is their number one source for shopping this year.
The convenience of shopping from anywhere, any time is enticing shoppers.
Rosie Moan: “I think it's the ease. I mean, you skip the lines, there are no lines. You can search on your computer, you don't have to drive from store to store, you can go from web site to web site.”
Websites that focus on discounted items like Groupon are leading the way because their sales come with built-in deals.
Rosie Moan: “You're expecting a discount and that's what you're going to get. So, the incentive is there to start with.”
And if sales is the key word comparing prices is easier online.
Rosie Moan: “The price compare, the not even having to get in your car.”
Plus if you're not sure it's the right gift you can get free advice with the click of the mouse.
Rosie Moan: “Being able to email links to ask somebody's opinion for it.”
Many sites also offer suggestions for those hard to buy for friends on your list.
Rosie Moan: “You know maybe find ideas that you might not think of, all in your pajamas.”
Online shoppers can also give unique experiences as gifts.
Rosie Moan: “Maybe JCPenny portraits or getting your picture taken with the family or going to dinner with them or ice skating or something.”
We all want the holidays to be relaxing and shopping online is an easy way to relieve some of the pressure.
Rosie Moan: “You have enough stress you know. There's so much to do and with gifts you just want it to be at your doorstep, ready to go.”
Don't think the online deals stopped on cyber monday. Most sites offer sales right up to christmas.
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