Cyber Monday is happening in a week – and there are lots of bargains for you to check out – and purchase! Make sure you do your research, so you don’t miss out on the best deals. Here are some tricks to help you save money without having to brave the Black Friday crowds.

Do Your Homework

Always remember to look up the MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price) for each item you plan to buy before you start your online shopping. The item may sound like a great deal but you may end up only saving a few dollars.

Do Your Holiday Shopping Early

If you are shopping for the hottest products of the year (especially toys and electronics), this is a good time to scout out discounts. Don’t be afraid to ask for wish lists early and get a head start on presents for your loved ones.

Avoid Third-Party Resellers

Be wary of unauthorized third-party resellers. If you find a fantastic deal on a popular, hard-to-find item, make sure to check out the seller.  Look for seller information including customer reviews, and return/refund policies. A great way to ensure the seller is legitimate is to look into whether or not the items you buy are “shipped from and sold by” the trusted site you are shopping on.

Read the Fine Print

Shipping costs, taxes, and service fees can all add up, so double-check fees before you hit “buy.”  You may be getting a good deal, but if little charges accumulate you could end up overpaying.

If you are unsure about the items in your cart, take a look at the retailer’s return policies.  Return shipping charges can add up quickly, and if there are no returns allowed you don’t want to end up with a purchase that doesn’t work out.

Make a List, Check It Twice

Lastly, make a list of all sites that you want to hit, figure out which products you’re looking for and bookmark those websites in advance, so you can start your Cyber Monday shopping adventure with ease. Remember, if you have an agenda, stick to it – you’ll be less likely to go for impulse purchases!