Did you survive Cyber Monday and Black Friday? If you were like many who avoided the madness, it’s time to check out aggregate sites and just type in the name of online stores you frequent. Want coupons? Sign up with a store and you will get more than you probably wanted. Free shipping is generally offered with a minimum purchase but there are many discounts to be had without much effort.

If you remember the old telephone commercial – “phone first before you go.” That adage has been replaced by “search first.” Most stores with an online presence will let you know if an item is in stock so you don’t have to go traipsing around blindly. If the store doesn’t have what you are looking for, you can call to make sure. Stores still call from location to location to see if items are available. Some places may let you put an item on hold without a credit card.