Online shopping trends amidst social distancing era

The world has changed thanks to the pandemic, and we’ve entered the era of social distancing to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Some of these changes have been hard to handle, but there have been some positives that have come from working to keep our distance from others. Here are some online shopping trends that have emerged due to the new rules in place.

Small shops going online

Many businesses are seeking ways to stay afloat during the pandemic. They need to bring sales in, so they can help keep their employees employed and pay their bills. This new reality is making many of your favourite small shops move towards selling their products and services online. Some are going completely digital, while others are letting you order online and take advantage of curbside pickup for your items. It makes it possible for you to get what you need from a smaller store to help support your local community without having to make unnecessary trips outside of your home.

Online delivery on everything

The beauty of shopping online, even before the pandemic, is that you were able to purchase just about everything you need for life. From food to fashion and jewellery, you can have it sent right to your home without any hassle. You can have your favourite meal sent home at the end of a long day of working your essential job. No need to worry about what’s for dinner after dealing with other people all day can be a blessing. Many stores aren’t allowing guests to try on clothing in-store, which is often why many people prefer shopping in a brick and mortar store. Closed changing rooms and more relaxed return policies for online purchases makes it more appealing to order clothing online to be delivered.

Celebrate by sending birthday gifts

Being unable to see your friends and family celebrate their birthday can put a damper on your day. Online shopping does make it easier to let someone know you’re thinking about them on their special day. You can personalise a gift card or send them a fun present right to their address for them to be able to open without having to wait to see you. They can do the same for your birthday. Even better is that you can also send online thank you cards for any special gifts you receive while following social distancing guidelines.

Spending money online exclusively

Another online trend that’s being seen is more people are shopping online exclusively. Now that you see more stores open for business online, everything that you want to order to available to you at a click of a mouse. The convenience that most people have been taking advantage of with online shopping has become more like a necessity. It makes sense to keep yourself safe and those that are in the necessary part of the workforce. Every trip that you don’t have to make means you won’t be coming in contact with those individuals, and they get the same benefit.

Saving money while spending

You may have found that while you’re spending more money online by doing more of your shopping at home, you’re probably also concerned about saving money. Rebate and coupon websites are seeing a good deal of traffic thanks to this trend of individuals looking to save on their everyday purchases. If you’re not already taking advantage of this online shopping trend, you may be missing out on keeping more money in your wallet.

Larger online purchases

Another area where shopping trends are changing is with the volume of orders. More people are ordering more than they usually would because of the potential for shortages. It was easy to see this happening in stores around you when the pandemic first started kicking off, but many are taking advantage of offers like free shipping to have bulk orders placed. For instance, you might not be worried about getting your groceries, but it may offer peace of mind if you order extra food for your pet in case they fall behind in sending it out.

Ordering early

Bulk purchases are one way you can make sure that you don’t run out of items, but another online shopping trend that’s taking place now amidst social distancing is ordering early. Maybe you used to wait until you only had a fourth of your lotion left before reordering it to ensure you don’t run out, but now, you may decide to order early when you’ve only used half of the bottle. It can be an excellent way to keep everything you need and like on hand when shipping delays can occur due to the pandemic.

Ease of comparison shopping

Shoppers are also taking advantage of comparison shopping when shopping online. When in a store, it’s easy to pick up the first product that catches your eye, but online, you can easily navigate to reviews, competitor pricing, and other information that can help you score the best deal. Combined with rebates and online coupons, it can make it easier on your wallet.

Social distancing can be a disappointment in life when you want to see your friends and family or just head out for a meal. Thanks to the internet, you’re able to take advantage of these online shopping trends to help minimise the issues that come from social distancing.

The editorial unit