As February unfolds into a bouquet of overpriced flowers, take solace in knowing the whole month need not be dedicated to sonnets and sappy romantic comedies. There are several best buys to be had this month with an extra day to rake in the savings on February 29.
Take a break from all things pink and peruse The Best Time to Buy Guide from FreeShipping.org to score some serious savings. Here are seven such items to get you started.
1. Boats
Wakeboarding season is still a few months off—for most of us, anyway—but winter represents one of the best times to buy a boat. New models are often available in early spring, so boat dealerships are eager to empty their lots for new inventory. Experts suggest shopping dealerships to avoid paying boat-show expenses.
2. Cameras
Kodak may be going under but that doesn't mean your best moments should go uncaptured. Last year's camera models can be found at reduced prices on the cusp of new releases. In fact, you can get Best Buy free shipping plus discounts on select digital cameras and camcorders through Feb. 4.
3. Prom Dresses
Your teenage daughter's most anticipated dance of the year is just a few months away, and retailers are eager to outfit her in the latest styles. Since it's, like, so lame to wear the same dress more than once, encourage your budding fashionista to sell her current stock of formal wear to a consignment shop for money to put toward a new garment.
4. Home Theaters
If you're looking to upgrade your big screen, February is one of the best months to justify the expense. Thanks to Super Bowl hype and the introduction of new models to the market, home theater systems are at their best prices of the year.
5. Weddings
If you haven't picked a wedding date yet, consider a time outside the peak season of May to October for substantial savings. February weddings offer an intrinsically romantic feel, but beware of inflated red-rose prices. Opt for a different flower species to keep yourself in the black. For other money-saving tips on weddings, check out this article from Seattle PI.
6. Winter Coats
Winter coats and other cold-weather attire become increasingly cheaper as spring approaches, but selection will continue to diminish. Unless you want to be stuck with last year's orange Muppet-fur parka, stock up now on discounted outerwear for next season.
7. Cauliflower
Cruciferous veggie fans, unite! Cauliflower and broccoli are in season at winter farmers' markets, representing one of the few available fresh produce items in February. If supermarkets are more your bag, you can still find great deals on citrus, including oranges, lemons, and grapefruit.
FreeShipping.org is a resource on the Internet linking shoppers to free-shipping deals offered by nearly 4,000 online merchants.