Online Holiday Shopping Ideas

Aired on: December 18, 2007

Do you dread braving the cold weather and crowds in order to do your holiday shopping? Regina Lewis, a consumer advisor for AOL, tells Rachael about three Web sites where you can find great deals without having to leave the comfort of your home.

First, Regina and Rachael take a virtual trip around the world to do some pearl shopping. Through Shangby.com, you are able to shop, haggle and buy goods directly from vendors in Shanghai, and the prices are usually far below that which you'd pay in the U.S. In fact, Rachael buys two strings of pearls (normally around $300 in the states) for $62.50 each! "And you'll have them in seven days via FedEx," says Regina.

"Etsy.com is your spot for everything homemade," Regina explains. "We're talking about over 60,000 artists, photographers, jewelry makers and over 800,000 products listed. The gifts are unique, you're supporting local artists in the recipient's area and because there's no retailer involved you're getting a lot for your money."

For those looking to shop down a more philanthropic route, Regina suggests Shopgoodwill.com. "It's essentially eBay but all of the proceeds go toward non-profit," she says.

Rachael surprises one viewer who is dreading holiday shopping by giving her a Sony VAIO notebook so she can start shopping online.