It’s the month of love, and deals! Look for these 7 things to buy in February and you’ll be able to get some great discounts. Whether it’s canned goods, tablets or car seats, now is the time to grab them up.
Supplements, health packages and systems
Everyone hops on the “new year, new you” challenges in January. Companies respond to this by over-stocking items like supplements, detox kits and internal health systems. If you are looking to finally start that detox, now is the time to get those kits for a deep discount. Also, if you plan on doing any type of detox before summer, grab the kits now. Are you in a dreary part of the country where there isn’t much sun? Use these sales to stock up on Vitamin D.
Specialty sporting goods
Will your kiddo be running track, playing baseball, soccer or Lacrosse in the spring? Now is the time to get deals on any specialty sporting goods that they may need to play. Cleats, Lacrosse sticks, running shoes, and even hockey equipment will be on sale this month.
Kitchen appliances
Blenders, toasters, and food processors are being put on sale all over online, and in brick and mortar stores. Keep an eye out for deals on these items and upgrade those items. Also, think beyond the kitchen. You’ll be able to find great deals on vacuums for the house and even your car this month. A car vacuum might be a great gift for Father’s Day!
New York City Vacation package
I mentioned in the “Things to buy in January” post that purchasing vacation packages is a great idea during that first month of the year. It’s also a great idea to buy vacation packages in February, especially those for a spring and summer getaway to New York City. February is the time when you’ll find deals on cool hotels, broadway shows, and unique tourist experiences around the city. Most companies are rewarding you for booking now by giving you 30% to 50% off an experience.
Canned food
This is my favorite time of year to stockpile canned items! Here in New Jersey, one of our grocery chains ShopRite does their “Can-Can sale” where I stock up on winter and spring staples. Whether it’s canned tomatoes, salmon and tuna, or corn, now is the time to grab those deals.These great sales are happening all around the country, so take advantage of the sales and stock up on the staples in your home. This is also a great time to buy hot cereals, like oatmeal and cream of wheat, and pancake mix, since it’s National Hot Breakfast Month.
Small electronics
With the announcement of the new line of electronics during the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, companies are now gearing up to display the “hot items” and place the older generations of electronics on sale and clearance. This is a great time to buy Android tablets, cell phones, and netbooks that may be 6 months to a year old. For more tips on how to save big bucks on your electronics, check out this post on ways to keep your technology frugal.
Baby items
Yes, this is the time to stock up on those baby shower gifts. Toys R Us, Babies R Us and even Target are starting up their baby sales now. These sales will turn into “phantom sales” by May, when prices for baby items will be at their premium, and most stores will claim they are giving you a sale price, but it will only be about 5% to 10% off retail. Take a peek at this post about frugal baby shower gift ideas to keep you under budget for any showers you may be invited to this year.
What NOT to buy:
Air Conditioners
Over the years, I’ve seen so many financial gurus mention air conditioners are being a great deal in the winter, but the truth is, it’s all regional. If you are in the south, supply and demand causes the prices to stay the same almost all year round. If it’s warm 3 quarters of the year where you are, you may not get a deep discount on air conditioners, but you will have more reasonable pricing for one. In cooler parts of the country, deals on air conditioners will start up next month, when stores are placing their spring items on shelves, including new lines of air conditioners, and putting the older lines on sale. If you see a sale on an air conditioner this month, stand your ground and wait. As Alton Brown says: your patience will be rewarded.