Save Big with Seasonal Bargain Hunting

September 29, 2009 | Posted by Margarette

Image via Flickr

We all love bargains. Saving money is always fun, but sometimes it can be frustrating to watch end of the season deals pop up – sweaters go on sale just when spring hits, or swimming pool accessories are advertised 75% off right as the weather turns cool.

If you can set aside a small budget, you can actually make a killing on these last chance deals. Plan ahead and figure out (as closely as you can) what size clothing your children will be wearing next year, and stock up on garments that give you a little leeway – T-shirts and elastic waist shorts in the fall when they are on the clearance rack, or sweaters, hoodies and jogging pants in the early spring.

You can treat yourself to a good winter coat in April and simply store it in its heavy plastic wrapping until winter comes again. Watch for sales on gloves, mittens and hats, and stuff a bagful on the hall closet shelf for cold days to come. Buy that ‘just a little too tight’ swimsuit in September, and make it your goal to fit into it by June next year.

Don’t limit yourself to clothing. Buy pool supplies in the fall, and Christmas tree lights in January. Seek out bargains in the electronics department – many companies have new releases products in April and you can get last years model at cut rate prices. Get a new grill in the dead of winter. Sit down with the kids and decide which sports you want to play next season, and pick up deals on raquets, bats, balls, gloves and nets or goals.

Don’t just impulse buy. If you’ll never use it, it doesn’t matter how good a discount you can get. However, if you pad your budget for good buys that are thought out in advance, you can save on big ticket items as well as must haves six months in advance and smile when they hit the market with inflated prices next year!