MAIN Home Life Holidays Christmas Online Shopping Guide

Starting with Cyber Monday, when major department stores kick-off their holiday sales, online shopping gets evern easier -- thanks in large part to good old-fashioned competition.

Retailers' growing sophistication in presenting their stuff online means clearer options for price, color and size, lots of free shipping, generous return policies, and express delivery right to your door. (And, if you still feel you find a better deal somewhere else, there's always online comparison shopping. And don't forget the online discount coupons.)

The downside, of course, is not being able to get an up-close look and feel the merchandise you're buying, consumers say. But a good number of them also claim that the reason for their cyber shopping conversion is sheer convenience.

Especially in the colder climates where snow storms can put a real crimp in last-minute holiday shopping .... happiness can be a warm, toasty computer. In milder areas, shopping online simply provides a great opportunity to kick back, relax, and really enjoy the holidays.

On the Web, find out what all the fuss is about — with guides to finding that last-minute gift (one that you can instantly zap to a loved one's e-mail address - on Christmas Eve!) plus where to get free shipping for the holidays, shops that specialize in worldwide delivery, and how to scope out more and more great Christmas sales and bargains now going on, online...

More about online holiday shopping around the Web:

Best Days for Holiday and Christmas Online Shopping - Check out an expert survey of when to get the best deals online, beginning in October and throughout the holiday season, with related tips on last-minute holiday shopping.

16 Online Stores that Deliver by Christmas—Even If You Order Last Minute! - This feature story has some great tips on online retailers with a good reputation for customer service and free holiday shipping, including Amazon.com, Zappos, Best Buy, Overstock and more.

Save Money Online Christmas Shopping - Discover expert tips on finding the best bargains online, especially during the holidays, with advice on where to find cash back discounts and flash sales and daily deal sale sites.

Holiday Free Shipping & Delivery

According to many consumer surveys, free shipping is the No. 1 enticement that most influences shoppers to to choose one online retailer over another.

While many cyber stores offer free shipping with a minimum purchase, check out these top online establishments which either offer totally free shipping year 'round, or those featuring totally free shipping in the U.S. through the holiday season:

also see -> Clothing & Fashion Shopping | Black Friday Sales

Cyber Monday | Popular Toys | After Christmas Sales