7 Shortcuts to Frugal Shopping With Google

Google has changed the world. We Google dates, Google job applicants, Google term papers: Name any topic and Google will present you with pages and pages of links.

But how many of us use Google to save money and develop a shopping strategy?

We've compiled seven shortcuts to help get you started. (Many of the following functions require you install Google Toolbar. This is a free download and is available in every language under the sun.)

1. Calculator
Google's calculator is more than an ordinary number cruncher. It can understand both basic and advanced math, words and abbreviations and then calculate as needed. For example, it will convert liters to gallons, so you don't have to search the Web for conversion calculators. To use Google's calculator, simply go to Google's search engine and type in whatever you'd like to be calculated.

2. Craigslist Seeker
If you use Craigslist a lot, The Google Craigslist Seeker shortcut helps you avoid scrolling through pages and pages of ads.

3.Google Checkout
Use Google’s online payment facility to receive exclusive discounts ranging from $5 to $20 for a wide variety of merchants. Google Checkout also allows you to complete purchases in seconds with one login for stores across the Web. It also lets you track all of your orders in one place while keeping your credit card number secure.

4. Google Sidebar Options
Use Sidebar Options for price comparisons and data searching. It can be found behind "Show Options" under the Google search field.

5. Language Tools
See something you'd like to buy on a foreign-language site and want to know more? Google Language Tools translate your query into that language, finds results and translates it back into English. Et voilà!

6. Real-time Search
Keep an eye on the latest product updates with Real-time Search. If you'd like to find out what people are saying at that time about the product or seller, just search for the product or merchant, click "Show Options" underneath the search field, then choose any link under "Any Time."

7. Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are particularly helpful for online shopping, where you can't physically handle the product. Enter the name of the product into the Google search bar, click “Show Options” then choose "Reviews."

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