Among online shoppers, the notion of being able to find amazing bargains and discounts on the Internet has reached almost mythical proportions. It has gotten to the point where some people expect hot deals to jump off practically every single web page they browse, even when they hardly put any real effort into comparison shopping. Then they're disappointed if it turns out - as it invariably does - that the "rock bottom" prices they were supposedly getting weren't the lowest after all.

The reality of the situation is that it takes quite a bit more work to ensure you obtain the best deal on the product you want to purchase. For starters, if you're using a regular search engine instead of a comparison shopping tool, then there's no question you're missing out on the deepest discounts. That's because regular search engines spit out results pages that are full of spam or useless websites, causing you to waste valuable time. When you use a comparison shopping tool, however, you can browse through thousands of the most popular products at top retailers to find the perfect item at the best price.

There are several other specific strategies that can help you shop smarter before you buy and will ultimately lead to greater savings on every transaction. Here are a few additional secrets that budget-conscious consumers use to enable them to land hot deals again and again.

Check product ratings. Some products look so enticing in commercials or print ads that you just can't bear to pass them up. Most of the time, that's simply a consequence of effective marketing. To learn how a product truly performs in real life, you must check ratings and reviews posted by actual customers.

Get detailed product descriptions and specs. Manufacturers today make such similar products that they're often interchangeable to a certain degree. When you use a comparison shopping tool that gives you fully detailed product descriptions and specs, it is easier to judge one brand against another to determine which one represents a better deal in terms of features versus price.

View the most accurate prices. Have you ever been lured to a particular web store by a low advertised price, only to learn your purchase would be subject to additional charges? Hidden fees can turn hot deals cold in hot deals a hurry, which is why you have to be absolutely certain you're seeing the most accurate prices when you shop. Automated comparison shopping tools can help weed out the duds, leaving you with the best deal possible.

Study store ratings. Low prices shouldn't be the only factor you consider when deciding where to make your purchase. The merchant's reputation is just as critical to ensuring a positive experience, and should be thoroughly investigated before you buy. Objective store ratings posted by past customers can provide you with vital details about the service you may expect to receive.

Obviously, it does take extra energy and effort to find hot deals for everything you wish to buy, but you'll definitely notice a difference in your bank account. Be sure to use these comparison shopping secrets to your advantage the next time you shop online.

Stephanie Elman is a writer for PriceGong, a comparison shopping tool that allows online shoppers to find hot deals on all the most popular products.