Is it chepaer to buy plates/cups etc on line rather than Tescos/Wollies etc

[Mercedes]

I need to get plates/cups nakinhs for my dd's party and I can see from various threads that some online sites are used to purchase this type of thing. Is that because its cheaper / saves time/ more choice ?
Is it the same for party bags as well?
Some advice is needed as I am not clued up on these things.

I think the stuff you get online is often themed (so Dr Who, Spiderman whatever) whereas the range you get in the supermarket isn't as wide (though often it's more convenient and cheaper to get them in the supermarket because you're not paying for delivery etc.). I think it's mainly a choice issue.

I just got some from Home and Bargain if you have one in your town.

I got 6 Winne the Pooh plates for 59p - depends what they have in stock.

I got the idea when I watched someone in front of me in the queue buying what were obviously 'party bags'. They were cheap gift bags and she had pen sets and stickers etc for older girls. I thought it was a fantastic idea.

you tend to get more choice online but the postage can be a bit sneaky

i got some really good party bag fillers and bits for ds2's party this summer, online.

mainly via ebay,they have lots of 'shops' that sell this kind of stuff and i got some good deals, most sellers will do deals on the postage too, i certainly didnt feel ripped off and i think i made a saving as opposed to buying stuff from toys r us, woolworths etc