It seems every holiday brings with it the promises of big bargains. “Prices won’t be any lower than they are right now! Don’t hesitate!” We’re told. But is that really true? Are this year’s Labor Day Sales worth the hype? The answer is more complicated than you might think.
Buyer Beware
Just because something is on sale doesn’t mean you need it. So, put your guard up on Labor Day (and any other high sale season of the year). Be sure you’re not blindly shopping. Only look for the items you truly need. And don’t spend money unless you have money to spend. Avoid putting your bargains on credit card. If you end up paying interest on a “deal,” you may actually end up spending close to double the sticker price over time.
What to Buy
Mattresses: This is a big one for Labor Day! Each year independent sellers, furniture stores, and warehouse retailers drop the prices on mattresses. If you’re in the market and have the funds, you’d be smart to check out what deals are available. Personally, I’m a fan of purchasing mattresses at Warehouse retailers. Our last one came from Sam’s Club and was a fraction of the price of comparable models at other retailers.
Clothing: It’s the end of the summer! That means big box stores and department stores will be clearing their shelves, getting ready for fall and winter merchandise. Look for savings on summer wardrobe items. If you can, anticipate the kids’ sizes for next year. Or use your bargain buys now as the season winds down. I’m going to have my eyes on Kohl’s and Walmart this year based on the prices from last year. But, be sure you skip the fall clothing and shoes that seem like they’re on sale. It will drop several percentages lower as the season passes.
Large Appliances: Two weeks before Labor Day, I began getting emails from Costco advertising their deals on large appliances during the holiday weekend. If you need to upgrade your fridge, stove, washer, or dryer, I’d also keep a keen eye on Menards, Lowe’s, and Best Buy. You usually can find a great deal on a grill at the end of the season at these places, too.
What to Skip
Small Appliances: Small, kitchen countertop appliances will drop to much lower prices on Black Friday. So if you can wait a couple of months, you’d be smart to skip any small appliance deals you might see.
Toys: The same principle applies to toys and items like video games. We’ll see many new toys roll out on the market in the months between September and November as we prep for the Christmas rush. The only exception to this rule would be outdoor summer toys that will hit the clearance aisle. Things like googles, pool noodles, and out door games will be making an exit from the shelves and if you need them, you could probably score a good deal at places like Target or Meijer.
Online Deals from Unknown Sites: Labor Day can be an opportunity to score a good deal. It might also be an opportunity for someone less than scrupulous to take advantage of you. Always be sure you’re shopping on a secure site. If you have an inkling that something seems fishy, it probably is. If you have concerns about a particular site, it never hurts to do a quick Internet search with the site’s name and the word “scam.” Ask someone you trust if they think the site is reputable.
Electronics: There will always be exceptions to the rule, but on the whole it’s also better to wait until Black Friday for deals on laptops and TVs. I think we’re going to see prices lower than ever before on Smart TVs this year. The technology changes rapidly. I’ve watched larger and larger TVs drop in price throughout 2019. Wait if you can.
The Queen of Free’s Favorite Bargains
As always, I’d encourage you to join The Queen of Free’s Favorite Bargains on Facebook where I share the deals I find as soon as I find them. I’ll be adding to the list below of my favorite bargains throughout Labor Day Weekend, but the Facebook community is where I post them first.
So let’s summarize: 1) Know what you’re shopping for. 2) Always use cash/debit. 3) Sniff out fake websites. 4) Make the most of the end of summer bargains and traditional Labor Day Deals. 5) Be patient for Black Friday on some of its best bargains.
Favorite Deals right now:
- Air Pods on Amazon for $144.99 (you’ll find the same price at Costco, too)
- Menard’s 11% Rebate through 9/2/19
- Girls’ Shorts from Walmart $4
- Mainstays Sand Dune 3-Piece High Outdoor Bistro Set, Tan $74.99 (reg. $129)
- RCA 32″ Class HD (720P) LED TV $89
- Mattresses and Bedding at Sam’s Club
Enjoy your long weekend!
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This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal, learn about a way to save, or maybe even something for free, I may end up making a small commission. All prices are subject to change.
