A Mess Free Life may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.
I can’t believe we’re already talking about what to buy in August!
It seems the summer just started and were discussing the last official summer month of the year!
I remember taking my daughter out for a day sometimes two to do all the back to school shopping. I have a lot of great memories of us picking out back packs and supplies for school and college. Those were the days.
If you’re headed out for your kids, remember you don’t have to go crazy and buy in excess. Moderation is the key. They don’t need an entire wardrobe of brand new clothes, particularly if they still fit into last years stuff.
Table of Contents
Here’s what to buy and not buy in August:
Buy Back to School Shopping Is In Full Gear
August is the best summer month to get discounts on everything back to school. While a number of back to school sales started in July, it will continue into the August month when retailers will cut prices even further.
If we look back over the last several years, August is the best summer month to get deep discounts on back to school items. Some retailers started in late July, but that will just keep on into August when you can expect ever further discounts. Student friendly apparel retailers will slash prices on back to school clothes as much as 40% to 50%. Be on the lookout.
Also keep an eye out for cheap dorm furniture from retailers like Target, Walmart and Bed, Bath and Beyond. Last year you could get a futon for as little as $89, and a computer desk for $29. Backpacks and computer cases will be discounted too.
Laptops
You’ll find big discounts and savings on laptops just in time for kids to head back to school. There should be bundle options available with your lap top sale, and the sales will run the spectrum. Figure out your budget before you head into the store so you know which price range you want to be looking at.
Don’t Buy Phones and Tablets
Typically Apple, Android and other smart phone and tablet companies debut new products in Fall. Wait to make these purchases until new announcements come out and deals hit the market.
Hit Up a Tax Free Holiday for School Supplies
If you’re lucky enough to live in a state that offers a sales tax holiday in August, than August will be the time to make certain big-ticket items like lap tops, dorm furniture and the like. The event is tied to back to school season, so it’s a great time to buy supplies and clothing and avoid the hefty tax.
States Offering a Tax Free Weekend (or Week) in 2015:
Alabama
Arkansas
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Iowa
Louisiana
Maryland
Mississippi
Missouri
New Mexico
North Carolina
Oklahoma
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Vermont
Virginia
If your state does not sponsor a tax-free weekend, consider driving to a nearby state that does. I do this anytime of the year living close to New Hampshire were it’s always tax-free – Ya, Live Free or Die!
Buy Summer and Seasonal Item
You’ll find deep discounts on swimsuits, beach towels and outdoor entertaining items. Stores need to clear the shelves and get ready for fall and winter inventory, so August is the perfect month to stock up on summer items for next year. Swimsuits and beach towels will be marked way down, and bigger ticket items like patio furniture, pool equipment and grills are also available at a discount. If you see yourself needing to replace any furniture or outdoor appliances for next summer, think ahead and get the shopping done now.
Don’t Buy This Year’s Fashion Trends
The problem with buying trends is you don’t know if you’ll still love it next year. The key to saving, is buying timeless pieces and items you know will stand the test of time.
Buy A Fall Getaway
August is the best time of year to look for travel deals for September and October. Resorts enter into an off-season time frame in September and try to entice travelers with super low rates. Might be the perfect time to take that vacation without the kids?
Don’t Buy Holiday Travel Arrangements
Wait a little bit longer before booking your travel arrangements for Thanksgiving and the holidays. September and October are known as the best time to buy the cheapest airfare for flying during the holiday season.
I’m a professional cleaner with over 13 years of hands-on experience cleaning homes, a published writer, certified money specialist, and the founder of A Mess Free Life. After paying off over $50,000 in debt, I dedicated myself to helping others master their homes and their money — proving that a clean, organized, stress-free life is possible no matter where you’re starting from. When I’m not writing, you’ll find me cooking, playing bocce, sipping an extra dirty martini, or enjoying the ocean with my cats nearby. I’m also a proud mom and grandma who cares deeply for my mother at home.
