Benefits of Internet Shopping

To use Internet business-speak, I am admittedly a "late-adopter." For the longest time, I resisted shopping and making purchases over the Web for fear of security issues, primarily. Originally, I used the Internet to research products and locate the best buys, and then I would place my order by phone after connecting with a live customer service representative. Or, I would visit the store directly.

However, as time went on and my life continued to get busier by the day, I came to really appreciate the benefits and advantages of shopping via the Web -- economics, time savings, convenience -- all with the simple click of a mouse.

More often than not, I find coupons available for online merchants that will at least cover the cost of shipping, if my purchases do not automatically qualify for free shipping. In addition, I usually find items at very reasonable -- if not discounted -- prices. And, I don't have to spend the time or the gas to drive to the store, park the car, wander through the aisles looking for the desired merchandise (or desperately trying to find a helpful sales associate who can get me to my purchase efficiently), or wait in slow moving checkout lines. Internet shopping is a painless, pleasant, and quick experience by comparison.

With most purchases, there are no taxes imposed, and the availability of unique, affordable products seems limitless. There are so many more options and offerings than can be housed in a brick and mortar shop. Products arrive at the front door, and all I have to do is open the package. What could be easier or more convenient than that? Plus, online shopping is available 24/7 for 365 days a year!

I'm probably preaching to the choir, considering my audience of readers. However, recent concerns about flu outbreaks served to underscore for me the value of online shopping even more. At a time when we were hearing constant news reports about cases of swine flu or deaths from the disease, it occurred to me that I didn't have to worry about coming into contact with other people when making purchases from my own computer in the comfort of my home. To me, this was just another huge selling point that made the adoption process complete.