In our modern age it seems that everything of importance can be found using the internet. We can locate long lost relatives, find jobs, and even tweet at out our friends. Perhaps one of the most astounding features that the internet offers us is that we can buy anything on the web, and I mean anything. With all the world’s shopping resources at your fingertips it’s hard not getting carried away. Especially in the United States, online shopping is at a peak, which is easily understandable considering that our motto is “make it easy.” City life for Americans is full of hustle and bustle, with little to no down time. Online shopping is useful because you can buy anything you want anywhere (with the use of an electronic device and a credit card). With so many different shopping sites and the ability to compare prices (and even use discount codes), online shopping can seem a bit overwhelming, but it doesn’t take away from the overall thrill of shopping your heart out all from the comfort of your home.
One of my favorite aspects of online shopping is after you have purchased something and are waiting for it to come in the mail. The anticipation is sickeningly sweet, and even though you find yourself checking your front porch every hour, you wouldn’t give up that thrill for anything. Because, when that box finally arrives you get the goose bumps as you tear open the tape and behold your online treasure. You are now holding the holy grail from your online shopping adventure (cue Indiana Jones theme song). However, this feeling can be overshadowed by another: disappointment. Oftentimes when you receive your package the contents aren’t exactly what you were expecting for many reasons: it’s damaged, the wrong size, the wrong color, etc. That’s why you should only buy from a reputable source (like My New Find!) that has good customer service, and doesn’t try to trick you through false advertisement.
Online shopping is addicting because it’s so easy, which can also be a dangerous habit. Typing in your card number takes about 5 seconds but can do hundreds of dollars of damage in the same amount of time. This is why I argue that online shopping will never undermine regular shopping where you actually see the light of day and go to a store. With store shopping you have the ability to restrain yourself. Sometimes long lines, crowds are a good thing because they give you extra time to really ponder your prospective purchase and decide if you really need it. Also, the actual act of swiping your card or handing over cash makes the purchase all the more relevant. Perhaps physically handing over your hard earned money will make you want to spend less. Also, if you ever need to return something it’s a quick drive away rather than having to send it back and possibly have to pay for return shipping.
The thrills and chills of online shopping can be both mesmerizing, and monotonous. For these reasons and more I argue that store/window shopping will always trump online shopping. However, sometimes a good online binge is what you need, or perhaps you have your eye on something unique that can only be found on the abyss of the inter-web. Whatever the reason, shop with care whether it’s out and about, or in the comfort of your home.
Written by: Kailyn Wolf