For all of us trying to save money, sometimes the key is when not to buy something rather than figuring out where to get the best price. There are items that, no matter the “sale,” will never be the best price right now. In the case of the month of October, there are many items that will be on sale soon or that are extremely marked up at this time of year. Here are 8 things not to buy in October!
7 Things Not to Buy in October
Electronics
If you have waited this long to buy a new TV or computer, then you can wait one more month. Most items will be considerably less as we get closer to Thanksgiving and Christmas, so just hold your horses a little while longer.
Tools
Most tools only go on sale at Christmas time or Father’s Day, so this is just like electronics. You’ve waited this long—just make do one more month.
Costumes
I know you think I’m wrong here, but you are basically asking to pay full price to buy costumes in October. The best deals on anything costumes or spooky-related will be in November. Plan now for what you want next year and get ready to grab it on November 1st!
Toys
Toy manufacturer’s release all of the new toys for Christmas during September and October. While you will find older toys possibly on sale, you’ll never find the new “hot” toys on sale since they just hit shelves. Just wait, they will promote them and put them on sale after mid November.
Boots, fall clothing & winter coats
Just like costumes, fall and winter items are top dollar right now. We want to think about clothing a season ahead. The best you’ll find right now is 30% off, but if you wait until March you’ll find items marked down 60% or more.
Jewelry & perfumes
Now isn’t the time to buy jewelry, perfumes, engagement rings or any of these “gift” items. It’s rare to see many markdowns on these items in October. You’ll see bigger discounts closer to the holidays, so just wait. If you aren’t ready at Christmas, then you’ll see markdowns again in January for early Valentine’s Day shopping.
Gym memberships
This is the month that everyone stops using their gym memberships, so it definitely isn’t the month to buy a new membership. Wait for deals at the very end of December and the entire month of January. For now just go run around the neighborhood and save the money!
What SHOULD you buy this month?
Last year’s Apple products
In the fall Apple announces their new line of products coming out. By the beginning of October these models are hitting the market and older models are marked down.
Summer clothing & accessories
Summer gear is usually on crazy discount by October. If you see sizes you or your kids will fit in next year, then grab them up. We are seeing 75% off toys and gear at Dollar General, Target and a number of other stores!
Gardening tools
Planting season is over for most of the United States, so stores are marking down wheelbarrows, pruning shears and everything in between. Stock up for next years garden, even the seeds will keep.
Grills, patio sets, & air conditioners
Most stores are clearing sections to make room for Christmas. You’ll find the space-hogging items on large markdowns. This is the best month out of the entire year to buy patio furniture, so if you have been holding out, don’t wait too long.
When it comes to grocery shopping, here’s what to buy in October!