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Gift Giving Guidance That Won't Turn You Into A Grinch - TD survey finds shopping online for holiday gifts can lead to overspending

5 minute read
By TD Bank Group
• Nov. 12, 2015

TORONTO, Nov. 12, 2015 /CNW/ - With the holidays just around the corner, it's time to decide who's on the "nice" list this year. A recent TD survey found that when it comes to purchasing gifts for loved ones, instead of battling the busy malls, more than seven in 10 (72 per cent) Canadians surveyed do at least some of their holiday shopping online.

While online shopping may have its conveniences, there can also be the impulse to splurge and overspend. The TD survey found that over one-third (37 per cent) of those surveyed who do most of their holiday shopping online are more likely to say they spend more than they would in store.

"Buying gifts for the special people in your life is one of the best parts of the holidays, so it's easy to understand how people get carried away when adding items to their online shopping cart," said Frank Psoras, Vice President, Credit Cards, TD Canada Trust. "The survey found that forty-two per cent of Canadians surveyed who do their holiday shopping online do not follow a budget. Making a plan and tracking each purchase is an easy way to help manage temptation. That way, there should be no surprises when you see your credit card bill at the end of the month."

To help savvy shoppers plan their online holiday shopping without breaking the bank, TD worked with Cathie Mostowyk, online shopping expert and president of Shoestring Shopping Guide Inc., to help create and share a list of some simple budget-conscious shopping tips:

  • Pick your price: Canadians love a good bargain. The TD survey found that 57 per cent of Canadians surveyed shop online looking for better pricing. You can use online shopping to compare prices so you can help ensure you get the best deal without having to face a crowded mall.
  • Sign up for savings: Sign up with your favourite retailers for their email updates. They often send out information about upcoming sales, or special pricing and offers for their subscribers.
  • Maximize rewards: Think about taking advantage of loyalty rewards. For example, there are a variety of redemption options available to TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite* credit cardholders, including redemptions for travel purchases as well as for brand-name retail merchandise and gift cards.
  • Consider international expenses: If you're like the 39 per cent of Canadians surveyed who shop online for the ability to shop with international retailers, make sure you factor in duty taxes, exchange rates, and consider the return shipping costs, as those costs can quickly add up.
  • Cut shipping costs: Many stores offer reduced or even free shipping with a minimum dollar amount spent. Think about how many people you can cross off your list from one retailer - it can help save you time and money.

Mostowyk adds, "Start your online shopping early to ensure items are still in stock and you're not hit with rushed delivery expenses. I also recommend checking return policies to ensure you can either return in-store or with free shipping, if necessary."

The TD survey also found the top reason (70 per cent) Canadians surveyed shop for holiday gifts online is for convenience. Psoras notes it's no surprise that the majority (86 per cent) of those surveyed also use credit cards as a quick way to pay for their purchases.

"Redeeming your loyalty rewards for your holiday gifts is one way you can help stay within your budget, while making buying gifts easier and giving yourself more time to spend with your loved ones this holiday season," says Psoras.

For more information, tools and resources on budgeting, visit: www.tdcanadatrust.com

About the TD Bank Group Life in the 'Anatomy of an Online Shopper' Poll
TD Bank Group commissioned Environics Research Group to conduct a custom survey of 6,149 Canadians aged 18 and older. Responses were collected between January 20 and February 8, 2015. All of the statistics used in this report are based on the Canadians surveyed including a subgroup of 4,411 Canadians who indicated that they shop online.

About TD Canada Trust
TD Canada Trust offers personal and business banking to more than 11.5 million customers. We provide a wide range of products and services from chequing and savings accounts, to credit cards, mortgages and business banking, plus credit protection and credit travel medical insurance, as well as advice on managing everyday finances. TD Canada Trust makes banking comfortable with award-winning service and convenience through 24/7 mobile, internet, telephone and ATM banking, as well as at over 1,100 branches, with convenient hours to serve customers better. For more information, please visit: www.tdcanadatrust.com. TD Canada Trust is the Canadian retail bank of TD Bank Group, the sixth largest bank in North America.

SOURCE TD Bank Group

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