5 helpful tips for holiday tech shopping

Black Friday has just whizzed by and quick at the heels to follow was Cyber Monday and honestly though we do need to shop for a new television (and I'd love to get a new camera), we weren't bold enough to rush our purchasing decisions over the weekend, brave the crowds and buy just because the prices were slashed. Hubby and I have kept a few things in mind for our future 'BIG BUYS' and here are 5 tips from our list that may help you with your holiday tech shopping ...

1. Do your homework: Don't just pick a sales flyer and decide to buy a product just because it falls into your budget. Make sure you research the pros and cons and see if the product really fits all that you want it to do. (Remember you don't have to buy the latest model or a particular brand just because everyone else is buying the same. Buy what suits YOUR need.)
2. Do a little research: Actually do a lot of research. The one setback with tech gadgets is that the return policies on the same are always very stringent. So even if you find that you have a problem with your product after slowly getting used to it a month later you will be stuck with the same for a good long while! Speak to friends who are 'in the know' and check reviews on sites like CNET (I love this site!)
3. Get store loyal: If you have narrowed down the store you plan to shop your tech gadgets from, it sometimes helps to get approved for a 'Store Loyalty Credit Card' as it will give you bigger discounts. Stores like Staples even have Staples Rewards Cards that help you accumulate points for rewards and even pull up rebate programs
4. Patience!: We've also discovered that you should wait for the big holidays or close to the end of the year when Stores are trying to clear out for the latest tech goodies. If you're looking for a gadget that serves your purpose but is not necessarily the latest hip set, then playing the waiting game will be worth your while
5. Coupons Rule: Sure you may not get a whopper coupon out there but I say every dollar saved, is a big deal. Scout around for coupons and keep your eyes open on sites like the Hot Coupon World and keep your 'Tweet' little eyes on Twitter. Believe me, there's a wealth of 'buckaroo saving' information out there that can save a pretty buck!

The golden rule in all this is not to rush while shopping and to NEVER (with a capital N) make any impulsive tech shopping trips!


Buzz About Staples

Staples, the world's largest office products company, is committed to making it easy for customers to buy a wide range of office products and services. Our broad selection of office supplies, electronics, technology and office furniture as well as business services, including computer repair and copying and printing, helps our customers run their offices efficiently. With 2009 sales of $24 billion and 91,000 associates worldwide, Staples operates in 26 countries throughout North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia serving businesses of all sizes and consumers. Staples invented the office superstore concept in 1986 and today ranks second worldwide in e-commerce sales. The company is headquartered outside Boston.





** EBMR Disclaimer: “I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Staples blogging program, making me eligible for a $50 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.” **

Labels: Mommy Tips, Staples, Twitter Moms

posted by Marina@EBMR @ 8:47 PM