5 items to buy in October

It’s that time of year again — time to start planning for the holidays. It’s only October and the sales already have begun, and they will continue to save you money until year’s end.

With all these opportunities to save, it’s important to know when to buy the items on your list. Through December, each month will bring sales on new items. If you’re in the market for electronics, TVs or fall clothing, your big savings opportunity isn’t quite here yet — those items hit their lowest prices during November’s Black Friday sales. In the meantime, check out these five items on sale this month:

Jeans

Denim sales are hot in October. Retailers are clearing their leftover inventory of denim from the back-to-school sales by placing major discounts on the jeans they no longer want in the store. They’re also putting major markdowns on newer arrivals to kick-off fall sales. Brands such as Guess, American Eagle and Old Navy all have great deals on jeans this month. Don’t forget to look for a coupon code before you buy. Most offer 5 to 15 percent off, which could cover the cost of shipping.

Camping Gear

Warm-weather camping season is coming to a close, meaning awesome discounts on camping gear. Stock up for your planned camping trips now, because these are the best sales you’ll see before the start of the next camping season. You can find 60 to 70 percent off tents, hiking gear and fishing equipment, making October the perfect time to buy the adventurers in your family holiday gifts.

Now also is a great time to update your tailgating gear. Camping items such as ice chests, chairs, folding tables and outdoor lighting all can be used at your next tailgate. Shop the sports store clearance sales for a selection of discounted camping equipment you can use at your team’s next home game.

Travel

We all know too well how expensive holiday travel can get. The closer we get to December, the higher the prices will be. If you’re traveling in November or December, buy your tickets now. The cheapest airfare for holiday travel typically is found between September and early October. Stop procrastinating and save big.

Even if you hadn’t planned on traveling for the holidays, check out the holiday deals. The best time to book a cruise typically is in the early or final days before the cruise dates. Last-minute booking starts about six weeks before the sail date — when you can save as much as 30 percent. If you don’t have much to do with your holiday time off, why not set sail for a few days?

Patio Furniture

Patio Furniture has been discounted for the last few months, but retailers are struggling to rid their shelves of outdoor furniture. Patio furniture prices are discounted as much as 75 percent. Take advantage of seriously low prices, and spruce up your patio now — you’ll thank yourself when prices increase again next year.

Halloween Goodies

Halloween costumes are in high demand this month, but there are ways to buy your costume for less. Most costume shops have a clearance section with last year’s leftovers, and never underestimate leftovers. The classics are classics for a reason, and they’ll be a lot more appealing when you realize you can save up to 80 percent on yesteryear’s styles. Shopping online is another great option for saving money on Halloween items. Whether you’re shopping for decorations or costumes, look for sales online, and then look for a coupon code. You might just be able to stack your savings.

It might come as a surprise, but you can save a lot of money on pizza this month. According to Pizza Today, Halloween is one of the top five sales days for pizza companies. Many pizza joints advertise special deals and coupon codes to attract customers. Last year, Pizza Hut and Papa John’s were among the restaurants that had great pizza deals on All Hallows’ Eve. If you don’t feel like leaving the house this Halloween, check for pizza deals online before you order delivery.

Ready or not, holiday season officially is upon us. Ready, set, shop!

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5 Items to Buy in October originally appeared on usnews.com

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