Online Shopping - Pros & Cons

For many of us, shopping for groceries online can be a daunting prospect. We’re used to going to the store, browsing the shelves, and picking up what we need. But with the rise of online grocery stores, shopping for groceries doesn’t have to be an arduous or time-consuming task. Online grocery stores offer a great option for those who are house bound, without easy access to transport, and those who are just looking for a more convenient way to shop. But there are many more advantages to shopping for groceries online than most people realise.

Shopping online can save time. When it’s convenient for you – such as during a train journey – you can add items to your cart and have them delivered to your door. You don’t have to worry about rushing around, dealing with traffic and crowds, or enduring the noise of a busy store. Shopping online can also be more relaxing, and you can stick to your budget more easily as the total cost of your basket is tallied as you go. Plus, it’s a great option for parents who want to do their grocery shopping without their kids in tow.

When you shop online, you can easily compare prices and stock levels, and you can save on fuel costs. Plus, there’s less chance of impulse buying as you have to add items to your basket one by one.

Of course, there are some downsides to online grocery shopping. Delivery costs can be high (although it's cheaper with click-and collect or direct to boot), and you won’t be able to see reduced-price items or clearance items at the store. Also, there’s no cash payment option, so you’ll need to use a credit or debit card, and you can't personally select particular items like fruit and vegetables. 

When it comes to safety, credit card transactions are considered safe and are backed up by the banks.

Try canstarblue.com.au for a breakdown of places to buy from. 

Try Frugl App (available from the app stores), Lasoo.com.au for catalogues and search options or Smartcart - a Google Chrome extension that compares Coles and Woolies. 

There are a number of online grocery stores to choose from, such as Coles, Woolworths, some IGAs and more. So, if you’re looking for an easier way to shop for groceries, why not give online grocery shopping a try? You just might find that the convenience and ease of shopping for groceries online outweighs the cons.