15 Things to Buy in August (And 8 Things You Should Wait to Buy)

Whether you’re stocking up for your home, planning a vacation, or simply trying to stretch your budget, knowing what to buy in August can help you save hundreds of dollars over the next few months.

August is one of the best months of the year for smart shoppers. While everyone is focused on back-to-school shopping, retailers are quietly discounting summer merchandise to make room for fall inventory. At the same time, some of the biggest sales of the year are still just around the corner, making it worth holding off on certain purchases.

Here’s your complete August shopping guide, including the best things to buy this month—and what you should wait to purchase.

What to Buy in August

1. Patio Furniture

If you’ve been eyeing a new outdoor dining set or lounge chairs, August is one of the best times to buy. Retailers are eager to clear bulky summer inventory before fall collections arrive.

While selection may be smaller than it was in May, the savings are often significantly better. Look for patio dining sets, outdoor sectionals, Adirondack chairs, and fire pit seating.

2. Outdoor Décor to Buy in August

Planters, outdoor rugs, string lights, umbrellas, and decorative accents often receive steep markdowns during August.

Even if you won’t use them much this year, buying now means you’ll already have everything ready for next spring at a fraction of the price.

3. School Supplies (Even If You Don’t Have Kids)

Back-to-school season creates some of the lowest prices of the year on everyday office supplies. Stock up on pens, notebooks, sticky notes, printer paper, storage bins, and organizational supplies.

Many adults forget that these sales aren’t just for students. Now is great time to replenish office and mailing supplies.

4. Luggage

Late summer is an excellent time to replace worn suitcases. Many retailers discount luggage after peak vacation season ends.

Now is the time for a smart purchase if you’re planning holiday travel or next year’s vacations.

5. Swimwear

August is prime clearance season for swimsuits. Stores would rather sell remaining inventory now than store it until next year, so discounts often reach 50–70% off.

If you know your favorite brands and sizing, this is the perfect time to stock up. Or, you might consider getting that favorite new swimsuit of yours in a second color.

6. Grills

Gas, charcoal, and pellet grills begin going on clearance as grilling season winds down. You may not use a new grill much this fall, but you’ll be glad you bought it before prices jump again next spring.

7. Garden Supplies to Buy in August

Late summer means deep discounts on gardening essentials. Watch for deals on garden tools, raised beds, hoses, watering cans, fertilizer, and pots and planters.

Many garden centers also reduce prices on perennial plants, shrubs, and trees as they make room for fall inventory. Most of these plants will do well planted in the fall and will establish great root systems in time to support flourishing spring growth.

8. Outdoor Toys

Water tables, inflatable pools, splash pads, and backyard games are often heavily discounted in August. Buying now can save you a significant amount compared to purchasing them next summer.

9. Camping Gear

As summer camping season slows, many retailers begin reducing prices on essential camping gear. Think of tents, sleeping bags, coolers, and camping accessories.

If you’re planning fall camping trips—or even next summer’s adventures—August is a smart time to buy.

10. Fitness Equipment to Buy in August

Many people postpone fitness purchases until New Year’s, but August can offer surprising deals on home gym equipment as retailers prepare for fall inventory.

Keep an eye out for discounts on dumbbells, yoga mats, exercise bikes, and resistance bands.

11. Office Furniture

Back-to-school promotions often extend to desks, desk chairs, bookshelves, and filing cabinets. Whether you’re working from home or upgrading your office, August is a great month to shop.

12. College Essentials to Buy in August

Dorm shopping creates discounts on household basics that everyone can use. Think bedding, towels, storage containers, small kitchen accessories, and laundry hampers.

You don’t need to be headed to college to benefit from these sales. Take advantage of these student related sales for those long needed replacements or upgrades.

13. Summer Clothing

August is when retailers begin clearing out warm-weather apparel. Look for markdowns on shorts, sundresses, sandals, tank tops, and lightweight activewear.

Shopping ahead can save you a lot when next summer rolls around. You’ll have the fun of shopping then also the fun of pulling out this new wardrobe for next summer.

14. Bicycles

Some sporting goods stores begin reducing bike inventory toward the end of summer. Selection may be more limited, but the discounts can be worth it if you’re flexible.

15. Outdoor Power Equipment to Buy in August

Lawn mowers, trimmers, and leaf blowers often start seeing price cuts as retailers prepare for fall products like snow blowers and holiday merchandise.

If your equipment needs replacing, August can be a great time to shop before inventories disappear.

What You Should Wait to Buy

1. TVs

While you may find occasional sales, the deepest discounts typically arrive around Black Friday and the holiday shopping season. If your current TV still works, waiting a few months could save you hundreds of dollars.

2. Mattresses

Major mattress brands usually offer their biggest promotions during Labor Day, Black Friday, and Memorial Day. Since Labor Day is just weeks away, it’s worth waiting.

3. Small Appliances You Should NOT Buy in August

Coffee makers, air fryers, mixers, and blenders see some of their lowest prices during Black Friday and holiday sales. Unless yours breaks unexpectedly, hold off until later in the year.

4. Winter Clothing

It may feel tempting to prepare early, but retailers are just introducing new fall and winter collections. That means prices are at their highest. The best winter clothing deals typically appear after the holidays and again toward the end of winter.

5. Holiday Décor

Stores may already be displaying Halloween and Christmas decorations, but early-season pricing rarely offers the best value.

If you’re not worried about limited-edition items, waiting until closer to the holidays—or immediately after—can result in significant savings.

6. Vacuum Cleaners

Many of the biggest vacuum discounts happen during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and major Prime Day events. Premium brands often receive some of their best prices during those shopping holidays.

7. Kitchen Appliances

Large kitchen appliances tend to see stronger promotions around Labor Day, making it worth waiting just a few more weeks. If you’re replacing multiple appliances, timing your purchase can lead to substantial savings.

8. Fall Home Décor is Not Something to Buy in August

As cozy season begins, retailers know shoppers are eager to decorate. Prices are usually highest when collections first launch. If you’re willing to wait until later in the season, you’ll often find significant markdowns before holiday décor takes over.

Smart Shopping Tips for August

To make the most of your August shopping:

• Compare prices before buying, even during advertised sales.
• Check clearance sections both online and in stores.
• Stack coupons, cashback offers, and rewards programs whenever possible.
• Shop with next season in mind instead of only buying what you need today.
• Avoid impulse purchases just because something is marked down.

A discounted item only saves you money if it was something you planned to buy anyway.

Final Thoughts of What to Buy and What NOT to Buy in August

August is one of the most underrated shopping months of the year. With retailers clearing out summer inventory and back-to-school sales in full swing, it’s the perfect opportunity to save on everything from patio furniture and luggage to office supplies and garden essentials.

At the same time, exercising a little patience can pay off. Waiting a few more weeks—or a few months—for items like TVs, mattresses, and small appliances could mean much bigger discounts.

If you’re looking for the best things to buy this month, use this August shopping guide as your roadmap to smarter spending and bigger savings all season long.

About the Author

---