Shopping online: The key to success

Sign up for bargains. If you sign up for e-mail alerts from your favorite e-tailers, you'll hear about exclusive online specials. Consider a company credit card. CR is not encouraging shoppers to take on debt, but if you're a frequent shopper at one store, a dedicated charge card often provides perks. A no-annual-fee L.L. Bean card, for example, entitles users to free shipping and returns, free monogramming, and the ability to earn coupons.

Buy what you know. Respondents who had previously bought the same item were more apt to be completely satisfied than first time buyers (52 percent compared with 44 percent.)

Look for generous return policies. Lands' End for example, touts this guarantee: "If you're not satisfied with any item, simply return it to us at any time for an exchange or refund of its purchase price. Whatever. Whenever. Always."

 See whether you can return locally. Some online companies make you ship returns, even if they operate walk-in stores, but others let you drop off merchandise at any store.

(Info based on survey results by Consumer Reports)