What You Should (And Shouldn’t) Buy in October

It's the beginning of a brand new month. It's the beginning of a brand new season. It's the beginning of a new business quarter. Christmas isn't that far away and many are thinking about their gift lists. Here's what you should and shouldn't buy in October. 

There is a dearth of things on sale right now because retailers are waiting until November and December to really mark stuff down, but there are certain things you can still score a bargain on.

The latest and greatest personal electronics are going to be at peak price right now because most manufacturers release their latest and greatest models in the fall so they're available for the holiday shopping season. If you're in the market for the latest and greatest gadget, wait until December. If you're in the market for a new phone, tablet or anything with the letter "i" in front of it and don't need the latest and greatest, buy the release that's one behind where they are right now. Most of them are just as good and cost way less.

If you want boots, especially anything for winter, right now is not the time to buy. We're just heading into the winter season, so retailers are looking to get the most bang for their buck on inventory. Now is the time to be thinking about spring break. Sandals, flip flops, peep toed pumps and flats are discounted as high as 80 percent right now. Size selection may not be the best, but you won't find them any cheaper than they are right now and Minnesota weather is so wacky you'll still be able to wear some of them for a while.

Winter coats are in the stores already and anything for cold weather and outer wear is going to be on the shelves for top dollar. If you need a winter ski jacket or a wool blend dress coat for work, wait. Retailers will be wanting to clearance the holiday merch that didn't sell so you can score a pretty good deal around January or February. Looking for a cute trench coat or a light weight fall coat or spring jacket? Buy now.

Would your husband or significant other like some tools for Christmas? Wait until closer to Christmas to buy them. The prices of tools don't move a whole lot throughout the year, until we get to the holiday season. Then you'll start seeing deep discounts on drills and the like. If you're in need of gardening supplies or an air conditioner, now is the time to buy. Retailers are making room for snow shovels and snow blowers, so if you know you're going to need gardening tools or a window air conditioner, now is the time to buy.

If lingerie, perfume or jewelry are on your gift list for October, you'll be hard pressed to find a discount. Again, retailers are waiting until November and December to discount these items because they are so popular when it comes to gift giving. If your kids are in need of new clothes, now is the time to buy. You'll find long sleeved shirts, jeans, jean jackets and other back to school type items are all on sale for big discounts.

Do your homework and proper research by reading ads and paying attention to sales and you can score big time. Happy Hauling!