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?
Here’s your updated guide for what to buy (and skip) this month.
Buy: Back-to-school supplies, shoes and laptops
Back-to-school sales start in July, but you’ll find great deals in August too. Look online and at department stores and office supply chains for deals on backpacks, pens, pencils and other essentials.
It’s wise to wait until at least October to stock up on fall clothes as retailers start to roll out the winter stuff, but 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. Look for — and 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.
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Skip: TVs
August isn’t a hot month for pro sports, especially with the World Cup over. And with no major holidays or sale events to speak of, it’s not a top time for TV deals. The next best opportunity to upgrade for less will be when retailers like Amazon host annual fall sales (usually in October), and the extended Black Friday season after that.
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According to Consumer Reports, August is the only summer month known for discounts on printers and wireless routers. You can thank the back-to-school season for that. Check prices on Amazon, Best Buy, B&H Photo-Video and other electronics retailers for deals if you’re in the market. This basic black-and-white laserjet from Brother, for example, is a super popular option that may be worth it if you can get it for less than $140 this month.
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 warm and fuzzy sweater you want might not make you feel that way at checkout. Let the new styles marinate as you wait for cooler weather.
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 the new swimsuits you buy for next year and send the kids to school in shorts (or skirts) and a pair of discount Crocs while it’s still warm.
Skip: Lawn mowers
Ever notice how it seems like lawn mowers are never on sale? That’s probably because you’re only looking at the height of the mowing season. This year, try to stick with the one you have and wait until grass-cutting weather winds down. You’re more likely to find a deal in September, according to Consumer Reports. Check big-box stores and look online as cooler temps come. If there’s any stock left, you may get a break.
Better yet, look on Facebook Marketplace for a used mower. You’ll have more leverage to negotiate on price at the end of the season.
Bonus: Freebies
Consider circling these special days on your calendar if you like sweets: Aug. 6 is National Root Beer Float Day, and Aug. 24 is National Waffle Day.
Check social media and NerdWallet to find free and discounted food offers.
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