India is all poised to become one of the leading economies of the world witnessing growth and development in almost every sector, the e-commerce industry being one of them. Online shopping, perhaps one of the most important components of the e-commerce industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, thanks to the penetration of internet services and evolution of smart devices. The Indian e-commerce industry was valued at about USD 3.8 billion in 2009 that went up to USD 17 billion in 2014 with a further increase to USD 23 billion in 2015.

This number is expected to reach an enormous USD 38 billion mark by the end of 2016, according to a report released by Assocham earlier this year (India’s e-commerce Assocham). This surging trend can be attributed to several factors like massive online discounts, an increase in product range as well as the rise in fuel prices and busier lifestyles. The ever-increasing usage of smartphones and tablets is a significant contributor to these rising trends. More and more people are using their mobile phones for online transactions like payments or procuring all kinds of products.

According to the report, “Shopping online through smartphones is proving to be a game changer, and industry leaders believe that m-commerce could contribute up to 70% of their total revenues.” It also stated that 60% to 65% of total e-commerce sales in the country are from mobile devices and tablets and that this is an increase of more than 50% as compared to last year and expected to further go up! Online shopping has only improved over the years imparting enhanced experience over the years. Branded garments, accessories, jewelry, footwear, electronics, personal care products, home furnishings, other lifestyle products are all available at cheaper rates. Online shopping has come as a boon for people allowing them to shop at their convenient time and place without making a beeline at brick and mortar stores.

Special offers for mobile users, cash on delivery, easy returns and refunds are all important reasons that are alluring people to shop online. Current trends in online shopping have certainly changed the conventional ways of shopping. People are now comfortable buying things without looking, touching, feeling or sensing as a complete departure from previous practices.  However, there are certain myths that surround online shopping. Read on to debunk them.

Myth 1: Online Shopping Is Only for Metros

Reality: Online shopping has certainly moved on from the metros to smaller tier 2 cities and towns. With most e-commerce giants extending their services and increased internet services, consumers from these places are swelling in numbers and are all set to increase.

Myth 2: Sharing Bank Details Is Risky

Reality: This is perhaps the most common fear that shrouds online shopping. Many people are wary of online shopping fearing disclosure of their bank details. However what you need to know is that most online shopping sites do not store such confidential information in their database for long. Secondly, options like cash on delivery are safe and convenient with zero risks wherein you can pay once you receive the product. Most online shopping sites have safe payment gateways where buyer details are safe with them.

Myth 3: Getting Fake Products

Reality: If you are shopping from reputed websites then you can rest assured that you shall get a genuine standard product. Most of these sites also have an easy refund and exchange policies in case what you receive does not match the specifications. Flipkart, Snapdeal, Amazon, Jabong, are a few such sites are dependable. You can also look forward to some great deals and savings by using coupons and offers.

Myth 4: Refunds and Exchanges Are False Promises

Reality: Most online shopping sites have an easy return, exchange and refund policies that are authentic. It may take you some time to correspond with the concerned site to return or replace a product you are unsatisfied with, but the policies laid down are certainly honored. Getting a refund may also take up to a few weeks, but online sites do keep their word!

Myth 5: Save Time On Shopping

Reality: Though online shopping saves you the time and effort of going to a brick and mortar shop because you don’t have to drive through traffic, queue up for a parking slot or at the billing counter, sweat it out in trial rooms, you may actually end up spending more time browsing through shopping portals, looking for discounts and offers, reading reviews, etc. But even if you do so, at the end of it all you are sure to get your time’s worth!

Myth 6: Shipping Will Take Forever

Reality: Fear of timely shipping is another factor that prevents people from online shopping. Many doubt the capabilities like timely arrival, quality of packaging and handling, etc. of courier and shipping services. But most online sites tie up with reliable shipping services in various cities to ensure that their product reaches the buyer in appropriate shape and time. Buyers can also opt for express delivery at nominal charges.

Myth 7: Latest Trends May Not Be Available

Reality: Contrary to this belief, one can be assured of latest trends and models while shopping online. New models and versions of products are sometimes exclusively launched by brands exclusively for online sites at special prices even before they hit real-time stores.

Apart from these myths, there are a few precautions that you can for a better shopping experience:

• Always read the specifications of whatever you are buying.
• Read the terms and conditions like return, refund and exchange policies.
• If you have an account with an online shopping site, make sure you have a strong password.
• Make sure you are able to track the shipment of your order.

If any of the above beliefs has been plaguing you and prevented you from shopping online then think again! Online shopping is where the future is and one needs to move with the times. Apart from incredible offers from online giants, there are several websites like Paylesser India that offer special coupons on almost everything right from travel to dining to every other product or service you can think of. You can buy discount coupons at unbelievable prices and actually save while shopping!