Online shopping can be both convenient and confusing. Because you no longer need to drive and wait in line just to complete your weekly shopping, buy goods on sale or make a go for that latest season's wardrobe, buying products online enables you to save fuel and time. Not only does it offer ease in the selection of items, online stores make it easier for buyers to compare product features and prices. This way, it enables ordinary shoppers to get the best deals in every item that they intend to buy.

What's more exciting is that online store prices are lower than those in conventional boutique and retail stores. However, there will always be a risk that the wrong items will be sent to your home by mistake. And because of the complicated systems used in every purchase transaction, there is a chance that the delivery of your purchase may be delayed. For a person that is not Internet savvy, online shopping experiences can bring inconveniences rather than convenience.

To guide novice online shoppers in their online shopping experience, we have compiled some of the pointers that can be useful in making the experience worthwhile. You can even print this page so you can easily review the tips as you shop.

Follow your instincts: If you are not comfortable with the idea of buying or bidding the item on the internet, then it's best not to do it. Avoid feeling pressured to place your order immediately. Take time browsing other online stores for the same item so as to compare the prices and features of the items that you need to buy.

Learn about web auctions: Online product auctions operate similar to traditional auctions. The item goes to the highest bidder. However, to avoid any trouble with the items, try to familiarise yourself with the rules and policies of the auction site. Take time studying or reading its legal terms as in warranties and refund policy.

Double-check the item price: Online shops can sell new and used/old items that are still in marketable condition. But if you happen to encounter a price deal that is too cheap, be suspicious. Sometimes, £10 becomes £1 due to typographical error. Also, it is advised to check the prices of the item that you intend to buy in other online stores before you buy to yield savings on possible discounts.

Privacy policy: Avoid dealing with sites that do not have privacy policy. Often, the seller will ask the buyer some information. Some of which concerns credit card numbers and other security information. Without a privacy policy, you are subject to higher risk of identity theft.

Return, refund and shipping policies: This information will be useful if your purchased items stay too long in the verification and delivery stage and in cases when the items delivered to you have manufacturing defects or is already damaged.

Credit card: When shopping online, the use of credit card is the safest way to pay for items. Since it does not instantly credit the purchase to your own money, you can easily trace back unauthorised transactions. The terms of using credit cards will protect you against fraud.

Make online shopping an enjoyable experience. Learn how it works and you will be rewarded with tremendous gains. The time flexibility and savings that are enjoyed by most online shoppers complements the demands of today's fast paced lifestyle. It's a shame to be left behind.