Shopping

Becoming a smart shopper is an important part of building your life in Canada. The ability to make informed decisions will come with a little experience and effort.

What does it cost for a family of three to live in Canada?
Living expenses vary from city to city in Canada. Some household spending surveys estimate that the average family will spend between $55,000 and $65,000 per year.

Where can I do my shopping?
There are different types of stores in Ontario. In general, there is a movement toward much more diversity of products in stores, even among specialty stores.

How can I celebrate the holiday season on a low budget?
Most communities across Ontario provide low cost assistance to people in need over the holiday season. This assistance includes food for you and your family and toys for children.

How should I dress for winter in Ontario?
The winter weather in Ontario can be extreme. It is important that you and your children dress warmly.

What's the best way to pay for my purchases?
Most stores accept one or more of the following types of payment: cash, debit (bank) cards, credit cards, personal cheques, store credit cards (i.e., a Bay credit card or a Canadian Tire credit card).

How can I get a credit card with no Canadian credit history?
Most banks will not give you a credit card without any kind of history, but there are ways to get credit and build a credit history.

What do I need to know about credit and my credit history?
Your credit report (or credit history) is essentially your financial "reputation", which indicates how you have handled your financial obligations in the past, including credit card payments, loan repayments or sponsorship obligations.

What should I know about credit card fraud?
Credit cards can be convenient and can help you to make purchases when you need to. However, it is important that you protect your credit card information so that others don't use it without your permission.

How can I save money shopping?
To save money, people also buy second-hand (previously used) clothing, furniture and other items. You can buy used goods at stores operated by voluntary or religious organizations.

How do I convert an imperial measurement to a metric measurement?
We have compiled a quick chart of converting feet and pounds into metres and kilograms (compiled by Measurement Canada).

Shopping

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