Each year we buy more and more goods via online shopping carts. There's some very good reasons for that - it is quick and easy, and on a wet, winters' day online shopping is far more preferable than a visit down the High Street in the rain and wind. So how does online shopping compare with the high street?
Internet shopping has much to recommend it. The web is open 24/7, and you can find just about anything if you search diligently. In many cases internet shopping can be cheaper than the high street - retailers don't have the overheads of a shop, and can offer big discounts. Finally, although many people are concerned that internet shopping is risky, in reality it is no less safe than in a store or by mail if you use common sense and take a few simple precautions.
The high street has its own advantages however. First up, it is not always more expensive - a recent survey compared prices for popular package holidays and found that in almost every case, a high street travel agent was cheaper. Additionally, when you are looking at clothing or shoes, you can actually try them on, and if you do wind up with the wrong item, changing it is often easier. Another consideration is when you get your goods - at most high street retailers you walk away with your purchase. With internet shopping there can sometimes be long delays before you actually get your goods.
The verdict? Both have their place, so be smart, and use each for what they're best at.
