Depending on where you live, winter can bring a slew of harsh and inclement weather. It’s a wonderful time of the year, but it also entails investing in a list of seasonal products. As you prepare for winter, here are some ways to save on winter gear.
My favorite place to purchase any winter clothing items are consignment stores and garage sales. These happen year round in Florida (since we don’t actually celebrate winter in this state) and you can typically find great and barely used items for a fraction of the cost of new.
Snow suits, boots, gloves and hats are something you need to own when you live up north, however depending on where you live, they might not get a lot of use. When we lived in Maryland I was always able to find used winter gear for my kids at yard sales and consignment shops. Most of it was like new.
Remember the best way to save on winter gear is to be prepared and shop ahead of time.
Snow Shovels
The key is to buy snow shovels before you actually need them and are stuck scouring hardware stores before an impeding snow storm.
Ace Hardware and Harbor Freight are great stores to check for reasonably priced snow shovels. To get the most bang for your buck, shop during off-season when demand is low and stores may be trying to clear inventory, for example during late February and March.
Coats
During February, when winter is coming to an end, stores tend to slash prices in an effort to clear their current winter inventory and make room for lighter spring outerwear.
Both February and March are great months to grab discounts from retailers, though you’ll start seeing sales on outerwear beginning in January. The longer you wait, typically, the steeper the discount.
Read How To Save on Winter Clothes for Kids for more tips.
Boots
November is the best time to buy winter boots, right before the winter season kicks off, though there won’t be as much selection. Another great strategy is to wait until post-season during March when retailers will try to clear their shelves of winter-themed gear.
My best tip for saving on boots (especially if you have boys and girls) is to buy black boots for all your children. Then you can pass them down from child to child.
When I first moved up north I made the mistake of purchasing blue boots for the boys and pink boots for the girls. Well, my girls had no interest in wearing blue boots and my boys were definitely not going to wear pink.
I got smart and started buying black boots so no one could complain.
Also, be on the lookout for online retailers to offer flash sales on seasonal footwear.
Skis & Hockey/Ice Skates
After the holiday season, you can find the best deals on skis and ice skates. During March and April, the ski season is coming to a close and many brands have older models that retailers are trying to clear out.
I’ve been told that spring and summer can bring some steep discounts on skates, since they are not in high demand during the off-season.
Check out this article for additional Ways To Save On Sports.
By avoiding paying full price on these winter necessities, you can pocket that extra money saved to help pay for a family vacation or pay down debt. Planning ahead, buying off season, and purchasing used gear can be some of the best ways to save on winter gear.
By contributing writer Laura
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