It pays to shop around. So whether you are looking for a new credit card, cheap airfares, or a discount on your online shopping, the Money Maven has discovered the very best money websites.
1. When looking for health insurance, credit cards, home loans, etc.
Canstar Cannex and Info Choice can help you to decide which product or service suits you. The information is provided in clear, at-a-glance tables so you can compare interest rates, annual fees, etc.
The Australian Government website Understanding Money also has some practical hints on how to switch service providers and save money. The sad fact is that loyalty is rarely rewarded, so you should always keep your eye out for a better deal.
If you value user feedback, consult ProductReview.com.au. Comments are divided into pros and cons so you can be fully informed before you make your final decision.
2. When planning a holiday
If you want cheap accommodation: Lastminute.com.au and Wotif.com are the best places to look.
To shop around on airfares, go straight to airfaresflights.com.au, an independent guide to flights from Australia, or Webjet.com.au, where you can compare the costs of flights from all the major airlines. You can also browse for cut-price hotels and travel insurance. There’s also a free trip planning and budgeting tool.
For discount car rental, race to DriveNow (www.drivenow.com.au), which allows you to compare prices and options amongst car rental agencies.
For more advice on planning a great-value holiday, see Rescu. travel expert Joanna Hall’s article: Travel Like A Pro.
3. When shopping online
If you want the best products at the lowest prices, log on to a cost comparison website like Shopbot before you start shopping. When shopping online, you should also consider the delivery costs carefully as they can be quite hefty.
For more online shopping discounts, read my recent article on Group bargaining power: the Australian websites offering group discounts and wholesale deals.
4. Before you buy anything
For unbiased product reviews, advocacy and advice, consumer experts CHOICE are always extremely useful. The public face of the Australia Consumers’ Association (ACA), they aim to serve the consumer.
In my recent article on being a savvy bride, CHOICE revealed how to get the best service out of your wedding suppliers. Click here to read these tips.
5. When buying a gift
Forget heading to the stores for something overpriced and not-all-that-unique. Head to Etsy.com for incredible homemade gifts that won’t break the bank. Or, better yet, do some browsing on Pinterest and get your DIY on at home!
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