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Shop Online And Save Money With BuyandShip!

With Chinese New Year just a month away, lots of us will be itching to get on our hands on new clothes to look extra good. From dresses and shirts to shoes, you’ll be spoilt for choice when you do an online search.

Most e-commerce merchants today do offer free international shipping, but you often have to hit a minimum amount spent, or pay a high shipping fee. They also cost in the weight of all the packaging – boxes, bubble wraps and styrofoam balls shavings included.

Enter BuyandShip! BuyandShip is a forwarding services company with established presence all across Asia, predominantly Hong Kong (their main outlet), Japan, Macau and Taiwan.

Here’s how BuyandShip helps to reduce the prices of your shipping – unlike others, BuyandShip consolidates all your packages into one before shipping them out. This way, you have the option to store your packages in the Hong Kong warehouse for up to 14 days (that gives you more time to do your shopping!).

Frequent online shoppers will be familiar with the feeling of opening your package, and realizing that you had actually paid more for the extra weight of the bubble packs, stuffing and boxes.

BuyandShip ensures that you will not be charged for the excess weight of the packaging! For instance, if you purchase a small item like a tube of lipstick, and it is delivered in a large box with tons of bubble pack and stuffings, BuyandShip ensures that you will only need to pay for the weight of the items you bought, and not its packaging. If necessary, they will even repackage the items and remove unnecessary packaging for you.

Also, BuyandShip charges you for the actual weight of your packages, not based on volume. If you were to have 3 packages shipping from USA to Singapore, each weighing 1.3lbs, you’ll only be charged 4lbs (rounded up weight from 3.9lbs) as compared to other companies who will charge you 6lbs (each 1.3lbs package will be rounded up to 2lbs instead). That saves you a good 2lbs worth of shipping fee!

It’s incredibly simple to use. Just register as a BuyandShip member and start your shopping spree. Declare your parcels for international shipping and you will soon be receiving it straight at your doorstep!

If you’re worried about losing your packages, fret not. You can easily track and trace the movement of all your packages with a click of a button. Also, with 5 daily checkout times for each of their warehouses worldwide, never worry about delays in shipments again.

What are you waiting for? You can now go on a Chinese New Year shopping spree without having to worry about shipping fees. Start your wardrobe makeover early this 2018 with BuyandShip and register now at https://www.buyandship.com.sg/!

Stand to get greater discounts when you use the promo code MONEYDIGEST2018 upon checkout. Hurry and start today!

How To Escape The Trap Of Buyer’s Remorse

Words cannot describe how overwhelming the retail prices have been due to the Christmas and Year-end promotions. I bought a quality Kat Von D lipstick for S$13.20 (i.e., original price was S$32). That price is equivalent to the lipsticks found at the drugstore! It was insanely cheap. I did not regret this purchase! In fact, I shared the coveted information to my friends.

Despite my shopping highs, I had my lows. I bought a S$39 hand cream by accident. How can I be so dumbfounded? Well, I saw this product on a sale rack that was mislabeled. Fortunately, I was able to replace the item with several items within the price tag. I resolved the unwanted tension I felt inside. Said unwanted tension is called buyer’s remorse.

Buyer’s remorse (i.e., the feeling of regret after purchasing something) happens to the best of us. We are psychologically wired to focus on desire. This is why it is best to avoid the shopper’s trap. Consider these tips:

Image Credits: pixabay.com

#1: COME PREPARED

Upon entering the glittering halls of Sephora, my sister posed a firm question. “What do you want to buy?”, she said. She believes that it is important to have an item in mind before entering a store. She is certainly right! I walked out with a single item from my favorite brand – Nudestix.

To prevent the common pitfall of impulse purchase, you must do your research prior to shopping. Look through the online reviews as well as the opinion of your peers. Married couples may employ a general rule of purchase. For instance, items over S$100 should be discussed. This rule will help you spend within your means.

#2: SET A BUDGET

Last night, my mother and I went to the nearby grocery to buy toiletries. I did not bring any cash and she brought S$15. I was fine with that as we only needed a pack of facial tissue and two toothbrushes. However, she was repeatedly attracted with other items such as the broom and the wet wipes. Having limited cash helped us to identify the unnecessary items in our cart.

It goes without saying that a realistic budget can help you avoid the unwanted sting of buyer’s remorse. Steer away from the tempting plastic cards! Bringing a fixed amount of cash is a surefire way to strictly follow through your budget. The fixed amount relies on what you are willing to spend on that day. It is best to spend the money that you already have.

#3: WALK AWAY

One of the hardest things to do is to walk away from a seemingly tempting offer. Retailers rule you with posters that highlight limited offers and flash sales. These so-called bargains support impulsive buying behaviors. To save your wallet, just walk away! If you are not willing to purchase an item on its full price, you are better off without it.

Remove yourself from the pressure zone by asking the store to hold the item for at least 24 hours. If there is still a need to get it, go back for it. The passing time in between gives you a chance to rethink the value of your purchase.

Sources: 1,2, &3

Online Shops For Affordable And Quality Cosmetics In Singapore

The rise of social media made it possible for large-scale and independent retailers to showcase their products. Fueled by the inspirations from the makeup gurus and beauty bloggers, Singaporeans have been seeking the latest trends in cosmetics. Spotlight is focused on Glossier products now. However, I am a dedicated MAC enthusiast.

I am drawn to the quality and formula of MAC lipsticks. My fondness for lipsticks, in general, has led me to the discovery of the possible areas to shop in Singapore. Said areas include online shops.

On that note, here are three websites that feature some affordable and quality cosmetics.

#1: THE ALL-AROUND AGENT

Numero uno on this list is the one-stop shop called Zalora Singapore. From luxurious beauty items to affordable classics, Zalora will keep your eyes busy as you scroll down the options. People hunting for the hottest Korean labels can spot the likes of Dr. Young and Acwell as well as the cult favorites such as Maybelline and Inglot. Without a doubt, you will be overwhelmed with the number of brands that you can stumble upon here.

Spotlight Product: Dr. Young Travel Kit (S$18.90)
Shop at: zalora.sg

#2: THE REGIONAL STAR

The second spot belongs to Sasa, which focuses on the prowess of regional beauty products. By regional, I am referring to the proximity of the countries in which these products are made from (e.g., from Korea and Taiwan). This HK-based chain is the go-to drugstore of many Singaporeans on beauty hunt. Expect character lashes, Japanese mascara, as well as inexpensive eyelid glues here. One thing is for sure…these beauty products are tailored to the Asian’s skin.

Spotlight Product: Kose Deep Cleansing Oil (US$6.80 or about S$9.30)
Shop at: sg.sasa.com

#3: THE WESTERN FAVORITES

An avid fanatic of Western drugstore brands such as RIMMEL London and Revlon would find a safe haven in the makeup aisles of Watson’s. Personally, I prefer the latter as it provides lasting coverage for a variety of skin-tones. A beautiful face can only be complemented by a crowning glory. Combat the humidity by stocking up on the amazingly cheap Batiste dry shampoos.

Spotlight Product: RIMMEL Soft Colour Blush (S$9.90)
Shop at: watsons.com.sg

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Ladies, get your stash on! 🙂

4 ways to get the most out of your online spending

The beauty of online spending is undeniable – sit comfortably on your couch, browse on online shopping sites, add to your cart and cash out. Then, wait a couple of days for your package to be sent to your doorstep. It’s pretty much like a present you give to yourself.

With such convenience, however, it’s easy to buy things on impulse. I’m sure we are not strangers to buying a shirt that did not fit, or only realising later that you could have gotten it at a cheaper price with a credit card discount or promo code.

Here are 4 tips for you if you are guilty of spending more than you should while online shopping.

Do plenty of research and read reviews

Especially when it comes to clothing apparels and shoes, it would be helpful to research sufficiently before purchasing an item. For instance, a pair of Nike shoes may be cheaper if you buy it from a US-based website, international shipping inclusive, as compared to buying from local stores.

On top of that, do read the sizing guides and what other people are saying about a brand via reviews before making the purchase. They are likely to tell you if the sizing runs smaller or larger, so that you can avoid buying the wrong size and spending even more money to alter it.

Avoid shipping fee

Most online shopping sites offer free shipping when you spend a certain amount. If you’re unable to make up to that amount, get some friends to buy from the same website, and combine your purchases so that you can leverage on the free shipping.

In the event that your friends are unable to help you, you may add random things to your cart so that you make up that amount. When your purchases arrive, simply return the things that you don’t want. However, this tip is only useful if the online merchant offers free returns!

Look out for discount codes or third-party cashback websites.

Do a quick Google search for discount codes and third-party cashback websites before you click the “check out” button. Websites such as ShopBack offer discounts, promo codes and vouchers. The only gripe is that these rebates only apply to participating merchants.

Take note of credit card discounts

Online merchants usually have partnering banks and credit card discounts, so do read the FAQ page before cashing out your purchases.

Whether you caught the travel bug or are simply itching to shop, relax in the comfort of your home and click away on online sites such as Agoda, Expedia, Lazada and ZALORA. Do look out for promo codes for your HSBC credit card and save up to 75% off with these participating merchants! Visit www.hsbc.com.sg/promo for more offers and details. Conditions apply.

In addition, between 1 May to 30 June 2017, be the first 5,000 cardholders to spend a minimum of $1000 on your HSBC credit card and get up to 12% cash rebate on your online and overseas purchases, capped at $200 rebate per month – the more you spend, the more you save!

Furthermore, this offer applies to overseas merchants so you can get that pair of coveted Adidas Yeezys or Colorpop Cosmetics at a fraction of Singapore’s price.

Who knew spending could be so rewarding with HSBC credit cards? Simply follow the steps below and shop away!

This post is brought to you in partnership with HSBC Credit Cards

4 Things That Millennials Don’t Mind Paying For

Oh how exciting is the progressive generation of the Millennials! Scholars defined the beginning of Generation Y as 1977 – 1981 while its end as 2002 – 2008. As you welcome 2017 with open arms, you will be amazed to know that they have more buying power than any other surviving generations.

The Millennials’ spending patterns are certainly unique to them.

#1: SMARTPHONES

Due to the heavy emphasis on economy in the Lion City, it is normal for students to possess part-time jobs to boost their allowances. These part-time jobs serve as an additional revenue to finance entertainment, travel, and school needs.

When I was a student, I worked every weekend in a Pilates studio along the stretch of the crowded Orchard Road. The money that I earned was wasted on cosmetics, movie tickets, and clothing. Boosting my perceived social status was on the top priority. Saving money merely followed.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

I remembered exchanging conversations with a friend of mine who only took the job at Häagen-Dazs to purchase the Samsung handphone that he has been eyeing on. Like my friend, having a cool smartphone is a must for the younger generations. They just cannot function without their trusty gadgets! Furthermore, smartphones usually serve as a means of communicating with others. We all know how much Millennials love to dwell and share their lives on social media.

#2: COSMETICS

I can attest to the undeniable trend of young women embracing the wonders of cosmetics. In United States alone, the expected revenue for the beauty industry was expected to exceed US$62 billion (about S$89 billion). Personally, I adore treating my face as a canvas as with many Singaporean women.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Whenever I am out with my sisters or with my friends, a trip to the nearby Sephora is always a part of the “to-do list”. My sister (a certified member of the Generation Y) did not mind if she spent S$68 on Benefit’s limited collection called Dolly Darling. She knew how happy I would be if I saw my favorite Hoola Matte Bronzer and POREfessional Face Primer. My face sparkled with glee as I opened this precious holiday collection. . Do you enjoy makeup as much as I do?

#3: HEALTHY FOOD

I came from a family whose mindset valued essence of health and wellness. Some of my relatives are Licensed Doctors, Fitness Instructors, and other healthcare professionals. I try my hardest to make healthier choices due to my exposure to this kind of environment. Apart from myself, are other Millennials keen on changing their food regimen for the better? The answer is YES.

According to a Forbes article: “Millennials still prefer cheaper food, and want it to be convenient. But they are also more willing to pay for fresh and healthy food, and are willing to go to great lengths to find it.”

More than the previous generations, Millennials were more likely to seek organic food. Investing on organic produce that is GMO-free and freshly grown with fewer pesticides sounds like a good idea yet pricey idea. Do not get me wrong! If you know where to look, you can get affordable organic vegetables and fruits in local grocery stores or online shops.

#4: EXPRESS DELIVERY

Patience is not exactly a part of every Millennial’s vocabulary. It is the rise of the digital age. We all want things instantaneously and in our own terms. Sometimes, we act like raging children whose main mantra shouts: “I want it. I want it right now!” This behavior was supported by the Shop.org survey. It found that Millennials, compared to other generations, were more likely to pay extra for same-day delivery on their online purchases.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Are you an avid fan of express delivery? Search through your previous receipts to find out more about your spending habits.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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