What to Buy and What to Skip in August

Q: I’d love to pick up some great bargains as the summer winds down, but I’m not sure what I should be buying this season. Which products typically go on sale in August and which should be pushed off for another time?

A: As host to the second-biggest shopping season of the year, the tail end of summer brings some fantastic finds, but some overpriced products as well. Here’s what to buy and what to skip in August.

Buy: Outdoor toys

Outdoor toys, like sandboxes, bikes, inflatable pools, and more, typically get big discounts in August. Check out sites like Overstock, and Wayfair and look for markdowns on playground sets at retailers like Lowe’s and Home Depot.

Skip: Major household appliances and mattresses

If you need a new oven, mattress, or another major household purchase, you should wait until September. Retailers tend to slash the prices of these items by 30% or more during Labor Day weekend sale events. Plan by checking out upcoming sales in the weeks leading up to Labor Day. Doing so will help you land the best prices on your purchases.

Buy: Swimwear

Retailers need to clear their summer stock to make room for the fall season, which gives you the perfect opportunity to snag a super swimsuit deal! You can walk away with great finds at ridiculously low prices you won’t find next spring. Stash your treasures for next year’s beach season, or keep them for a winter getaway to warmer climates.

Skip: iPhones

If you’re looking to update your iPhone, you’re best off waiting it out a month or two. The new iPhone 13 is expected to be released in mid-September.

Older models typically see a price cut when new models hit the market. So, whether you want to score the best price on an older phone or you’re willing to pay anything for the latest and greatest in iPhones, put the brakes on that purchase until September.

Buy: School supplies and kids’ clothing

With back-to-school shopping seemingly starting almost as soon as school is out for the summer, August is already late in the season. It’s also when school supplies and kids’ clothing tend to see generous markdowns. Stock up on supplies to last all year long and get your kids outfitted for the coming season at rock-bottom prices in August.

Skip: TVs

Don’t run out and buy a new TV just yet. If you need a new flatscreen, you’re best off waiting for Black Friday to get the best deal.

Buy: Office supplies and furniture

Back-to-school sales mean you can also cash in on office supplies and furniture. If you’re working from home, you may need to restock your home office supplies or upgrade your office furniture. Why not save on these purchases by paying for them in August?

Skip: Fall clothing

Fall apparel will just be hitting the stores in August, so you likely won’t be seeing any steep discounts on fall wear until October at the earliest. It’s best to buy just a few autumn basics during the Labor Day sales and fill out the rest of your wardrobe later on in the season.

Buy: Patio Furniture

Those wicker table-and-umbrella sets can get pricey! Get a deal on patio furniture by buying your sets and single pieces at the end of the season. While you’re giving your patio a facelift, you’ll also find grills, outdoor decor, and more on sale in August.

The final dog days of summer bring a flurry of marked-down products and end-of-season sales, but some items are best purchased during another time of year. Stay ahead of the retail game by using this guide to learn what to buy and what to skip in August.

Your Turn: Have you picked up any great deals in August? Tell us about them in the comments.

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