What to Buy (and Skip) in August 2025

By the time August arrives, Christmas in July sales are behind us, and Labor Day savings are still a month ahead. So what deals happen in between? And how do tariffs factor in this time around?

Here’s your updated guide for what to buy (and skip) this month.

Buy: Back-to-school supplies, shoes and tech

Back-to-school sales start in July, but you’ll find great deals in August too. Look on Amazon and Target and check out department stores and office supply chains for deals on backpacks, pens, pencils and other essentials. While it’s wise to wait until at least October to stock up on fall clothes, August is a good time to nab your student a new pair of sneakers.

Footwear brands like Nike and stores like Shoe Carnival are likely to run promotions as kids get ready to head back to class. As with any sale, remember to apply relevant coupon codes.

If your state participates in a back-to-school state sales tax holiday, use that window to buy the more expensive stuff — like a laptop — sales-tax-free. Many states' tax-free weekends fall in August.

Other tech to look out for ahead of the new school year: Printers, tablets and wireless routers tend to go on sale in August, according to Consumer Reports.

Skip: Amazon devices

Amazon just had Prime Day in July, so wait to buy Echos, Kindles and Fire tablets until the next major promotion. If last year is any indication, you won’t have to wait long. Amazon held its October Prime Day — called Prime Big Deal Days — Oct. 8-9 in 2024. We expect a similar sale, along with those from competitors like Walmart, Target and Best Buy, to happen around the same time this year.

Buy: Outdoor products

With summer coming to a close, you probably aren’t planning to do much more work in the backyard. That’s exactly why outdoor maintenance products and patio furniture tend to go on sale in August. Buy these items now so you’ll be prepared for next year. If you need a new lawnmower, for example, take advantage of the deals you’ll find over the next few weeks.

Save even more money by looking for gently used patio furniture and lawn care tools selling on Facebook Marketplace. Sellers may get desperate as the season runs out.

Skip: Fall clothes

Prices at the start of any given season are generally higher than at the middle or end, and Fall inventory typically arrives in stores in August and September. The price tag on that comfortable sweater you want might not make you feel so warm and fuzzy at checkout. Let the new styles marinate as you wait for cooler weather.

October is a better month to buy a new pair of jeans or sweatshirt.

Buy: Summer clearance

On the flip side, now’s a perfect time to purchase summer clothing, shoes and swimwear. Retailers are trying to clear out old inventory to make room for winter weather necessities, which you now know to wait on.

Save your new swimsuits for next year and send the kids to school in shorts (or skirts) and a pair of discount Crocs or flops while it’s still warm.

Buy (because of tariffs): Major Appliances

Major appliances are usually a “skip” in August because Labor Day is renowned for home sales. The threat of rising prices from tariffs changes things this year.

There’s a 50% tariff on imported steel in effect and it specifically extends to appliances like refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers. Prices could very likely increase later in the year.

All of the sudden, it’s a good time to get a new fridge, oven or other major household appliance if you need one now and can afford it.

» MORE: A few more things to buy before prices rise

Bonus: Freebies

Consider circling these special days on your calendar: Aug. 6 is National Root Beer Float Day, and Aug. 24 is National Waffle Day. Check for free food offers on social media.