College Shopping: By the Season

Department stores score big with back to school merchandise. From computers to small appliances and even bedding, the summer months can be very rewarding for big box stores, and because of the increased demand for these items, you won't find the best deals. By waiting to make your purchase you can save money on almost everything you need for college.

We already covered an article about the products and services that are at their lowest prices due to the economic situation, but did you know that pricing on certain items is cyclical with the seasons? Kiplinger compiled a list of the "Best Buys" for each season, and we have decided to feature the most popular items we think college students are buying.


For Fall:

• Travel: We don't recommend you splurge on a vacation during the Fall semester, but if you're planning to spend time off campus in any of the surrounding areas, you'll find the best deals on day trips and tourist attractions in the fall.
  
• Baking Supplies: Grocers will offer deals in anticipation of the holiday season, so if you're a baker, stock up in November! You should keep some baking supplies in your room to save you money during those late night study sessions when you're really craving a chocolate chip cookie. You can also use your baking skills to make new friends. Every college student loves free food!
  
• Appliances: New models flood the stores in the fall, so you can get a deal on last year's microwave or blender when retailers are most inclined to move their stock.

For Winter:

• Computers: If you're ready to purchase a computer for school, you may be able to save a ton of cash by waiting a few months. There are plenty of computers you can use on campus, so try to hold out. You'll likely score an even better computer than you otherwise would have if you rushed to make the purchase over the summer.
  
• Linens: Avoid the rush in the fall and and wait until January to buy most of your bedding for your room. It's true that you'll need to find twin extra long sheets, so bringing your sheets from home temporarily may not be an option, but you don't have to buy more than one set before you go away to school. You can stock up on back-up sets in the winter.
  
• Digital Cameras: If you're an amateur photographer or you just want something to capture all of your first-year memories, wait until January to find a great sale on a digital camera.

For Spring:

• Outerwear: Maybe spring is too late to purchase your coat, but if you are looking to replace the one that was ravaged by the New England snow and ice, you can find some closeout deals on last season's stock of coats.
  
• Utensils and Kitchen Gadgets: If you're moving into an apartment or into a dorm with a kitchen, you'll need some kitchen supplies. Buy your colanders and forks in April or May. This is also helpful for graduates!
  

For Summer:

• Swimwear: Shop for next year's swimsuit in August or early September. You'll probably get some use out of it towards the end of the season, as the weather tends to stay fairly hot well into September.
• School Supplies: Office supplies will be at their lowest prices during the summer. You can stock up on these, but remember to wait it out for your dorm room decor.

Check out the full article here.

Timing is of the essence when it comes to shopping for deals. Keep the season in mind when you're shopping, have a little bit of patience, and you'll come out of the stores with cash to spare.

- Savvy Student