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Should You Shop Online?

Americans spend a lot of money online. Experts say that online shoppers spend about $96 billion each month. 

Many people like the ease of online shopping, which takes just a few clicks. Items ordered from sites like Amazon can arrive within a day or two—or even on the same day. Since packages come to their doorstep, shoppers can avoid crowded stores. They also can make purchases any time of the day or night.   

But some people say online shopping is bad for the environment. Shipping orders requires boxes and other packaging, adding to waste. And studies have shown that items bought online are five times as likely to be returned as store-bought items. That means more fuel is being used for transportation. Also, the growth of online shopping is a big reason many stores have shut down. 

Here’s what two of our readers think.

Online shopping is convenient. You can do it in a few minutes, without having to leave your home. It also makes shopping easier for people who live in rural areas, far from shops. Plus, it saves time for busy parents who have to work and manage their kids’ activities.

Also, you have more choices online than you’d get in a store. And you often get better deals online too. 

Shopping online can be a problem. You don’t know the quality of items you buy online, so you may be disappointed when they arrive. Also, ordering online often requires a credit card. Someone could hack the website and steal your personal information.

Another problem is that deliveries can get lost or delayed. My mom once ordered holiday cards online, and they didn’t arrive until January!  

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