5 tips for shopping online

Sign up for bargains

If you sign up for e-mail alerts from your favorite e-tailers, you'll hear about exclusive online specials. We recently saw deals such as free shipping on orders of $75 or more at Kohl's; 20 percent savings on your entire order with the purchase of a pair of pants at Eddie Bauer; and a one-day, 10 percent discount on appliances or fitness gear at Sears.

Consider a company credit card

We're not encouraging anyone to take on debt, but if you're a frequent shopper at any one store, a dedicated charge card often provides perks. A no-annual-fee L.L.Bean Visa card, for example, entitles users to free shipping and returns, free monogramming, and the ability to earn coupons.

Buy what you know

Respondents who had previously bought the same item were more apt to be completely satisfied than first-time buyers (52 percent compared with 44 percent).

Look for generous return policies

Lands' End, for instance, touts this guarantee: "If you're not satisfied with any item, simply return it to us at any time for an exchange or refund of its purchase price. We mean every word of it. Whatever. Whenever. Always."

See whether you can return locally

Some online companies make you ship returns, even if they operate walk-in stores. Others let you drop off merchandise at any store.