Why It Pays to Shop Online

Gift value isn't in the Sunday circulars. It's in front of the computer screen.

Even with the poor economy, last week's Black Friday saw plenty of crowds and a sales increase of 3% over the previous year, according to ShopperTrak RCT Corp. People are still hitting retail stores in droves to take advantage of the early and steep discounts being offered. But if you want to get the best value for your holiday shopping, you don't have to fight the masses. You can do it in front of your computer.

While many see discounts as something that can't be beat online, the truth is when you look at the true cost of buying gifts, you will almost always come out ahead by shopping with a few clicks of a mouse. Here are 10 reasons you are likely to get a better value if you make them online.

No sales tax: People living in 45 of the 50 states end up paying an extra 2.9% to 7.5% on purchases in retail stores due to state taxes. In most cases, there is no sales tax with online purchases. This is an instant savings that can quickly add up if you are purchasing a lot of gifts.

No transportation costs: When you go shopping for gifts the regular way, you end up driving around from store to store looking for the best deals. While this may save you money, it also costs you gas and wear and tear on your car. There may also be parking fees and tolls. If you do your shopping at home from your computer, you avoid these hidden costs.