You know that feeling when three separate packages arrive on the same day from the same retailer? Each one wrapped in its own box, stuffed with bubble wrap, and topped with a receipt you'll probably never need. It's convenient, sure, but watching all that packaging pile up makes you wonder about the bigger picture.

Online shopping has become second nature for most of us. Yet every click sends ripples through supply chains, delivery networks, and ultimately our environment. The good news is that small changes in how we shop can make a real difference without sacrificing convenience or deals.

Here are ten practical habits that will help you shop more sustainably while often saving money in the process.

Quick Wins: Start These Today

• Combine orders instead of buying items separately
• Choose standard shipping over express delivery
• Check secondhand options before buying new
• Read reviews carefully to avoid returns
• Support local brands when possible

1. Combine Your Orders (And Your Patience)

Instead of hitting "buy now" the moment you want something, try this: add items to your cart and wait 24-48 hours. You'll often find you don't need half the things you thought you did. Plus, waiting lets you group purchases together.

Most retailers will combine shipments if you ask, or you can simply place one larger order instead of several small ones. This cuts down on packaging waste and reduces the number of delivery trucks making trips to your home.

I started doing this with my monthly household essentials and now receive one box instead of four or five scattered deliveries. The bonus? I spend less on impulse purchases when I give myself time to think.

2. Slow Down Your Shipping Expectations

Express delivery might feel necessary, but standard shipping is usually better for the environment. When you choose slower delivery, companies can consolidate shipments and use ground transport instead of air freight.

Many retailers now offer eco-friendly shipping options that take an extra day or two but have a much smaller carbon footprint. Some even offer small discounts for choosing slower delivery.

Think of it this way: if you can wait a week for a restaurant reservation, you can probably wait an extra two days for that book or kitchen gadget to arrive.

3. Shop Local and Regional Brands First

Before searching for the cheapest option across the globe, check what's available closer to home. Local and regional brands often have shorter supply chains, which means less transportation and often less packaging.

You'll frequently discover unique products and companies that care more about sustainability than mass-market giants. Many smaller businesses are transparent about their practices and happy to answer questions about their environmental impact.

Regional shipping also means faster returns if needed and easier customer service communication. When something goes wrong, you're dealing with people in your time zone who understand local postal systems.

4. Build a Wardrobe, Not a Costume Collection

Fast fashion thrives on making us feel like we need constant wardrobe updates. But that cycle of buying and discarding creates enormous waste and often relies on unfair labor practices.

Instead of chasing every trend, focus on building a collection of versatile pieces that work together. Look for brands that prioritize quality materials and ethical manufacturing practices.

Apps like Good On You can help you research brands before you buy. A slightly more expensive shirt that lasts three years costs less per wear than cheap alternatives you replace every few months.

5. Get Returns Right (Or Avoid Them Completely)

Here's something many people don't realize: returned items often don't go back on shelves. Many get sent to landfills, incinerated, or shipped overseas for disposal. Every return has an environmental cost.

Take time to read size charts, customer reviews, and product descriptions carefully. If you're unsure about fit or quality, contact customer service before ordering. Many companies offer live chat or detailed sizing help that can save you from ordering the wrong thing.

When you do need to return something, use the original packaging and combine multiple returns into one shipment when possible.

6. Turn Packaging Into Storage Solutions

Before tossing delivery boxes into recycling, consider whether you can use them. Small boxes work great for organizing drawers or storing holiday decorations. Bubble wrap comes in handy when you're moving or shipping gifts.

Set up a small corner in your home for reusable packaging materials. You'll be surprised how often they come in handy for your own shipments or storage needs.

When you can't reuse packaging, make sure you're recycling it correctly. Check your local guidelines since different areas accept different materials.

7. Look Beyond Green Marketing Claims

Many brands slap "eco-friendly" labels on products without much substance behind them. Real sustainability requires third-party verification and specific standards.

Look for legitimate certifications like B Corp status, Fair Trade certification, GOTS for textiles, or FSC for paper and wood products. These represent actual audits and standards, not just marketing promises.

If a brand makes vague environmental claims without specifics or proof, dig deeper or look elsewhere. Genuine sustainable companies are usually happy to share detailed information about their practices.

8. Invest in Quality Over Quantity

That tempting bundle of five cheap items might seem like a great deal, but consider how long each piece will actually last. Higher-quality products typically offer better value over time and create less waste.

Read reviews that mention durability and long-term use, not just initial impressions. Look for detailed product descriptions that highlight construction methods and materials.

Calculate cost per use rather than just upfront price. A well-made item that lasts years often costs less than repeatedly replacing cheaper alternatives.

9. Make Secondhand Your First Stop

Secondhand shopping has become incredibly convenient thanks to platforms like Vinted, Depop, ThredUp, and Vestiaire Collective. You can find everything from designer clothing to electronics to home goods.

Buying used keeps items out of landfills while reducing demand for new manufacturing. You'll often find unique pieces at great prices, and many secondhand platforms offer buyer protection similar to traditional retailers.

Start with one category you buy frequently—maybe books, clothes, or home decor—and see what's available secondhand before shopping new.

10. Give Items New Life Instead of Throwing Them Away

Sustainable shopping includes what you do with things you no longer need. Before discarding anything, consider donation, selling, or gifting to friends.

Apps like OLIO connect you with neighbors who might want items you're getting rid of. Local community groups often need donations of clothing, household goods, or books.

For electronics, look for certified e-waste recycling programs. Many retailers accept old devices when you buy new ones, ensuring proper disposal or refurbishment.

Start Small, Think Long-Term

You don't need to overhaul your shopping habits overnight. Pick one or two strategies that feel manageable and build from there. Even small changes add up when more people make them.

The goal isn't perfection—it's making better choices when possible. As these habits become routine, you'll likely find they save you money while reducing waste.

Which of these strategies feels most doable for your current shopping routine? Starting with what feels natural makes it more likely you'll stick with sustainable habits long-term.

Common Questions About Sustainable Shopping

Does slower shipping really make a difference environmentally?
‍Yes, it does. Standard shipping allows companies to consolidate packages and use more efficient ground transportation instead of air freight. This can reduce emissions per package by 40-60% compared to overnight delivery.

How can I tell if a brand's sustainability claims are real?
‍Look for specific third-party certifications rather than vague marketing language. Legitimate sustainable companies provide detailed information about their supply chains, materials, and environmental impact measurements.

Is secondhand shopping actually more sustainable than buying new eco-friendly products?
‍Generally yes, because the most sustainable option is using something that already exists. Even eco-friendly manufacturing requires resources and energy, while secondhand shopping extends the life of existing products.

What should I do if sustainable options cost significantly more?
‍Focus on items you use frequently or that need to last a long time. For occasional-use items, secondhand might be a better option than expensive new sustainable products. Remember that higher upfront costs often mean lower long-term costs when items last longer.