On Your Side: What to buy in August

It's a new month, which means there are new deals.

1. Outdoor items

Now is the time to buy outdoor furniture. Just make sure you have a place to store it when the weather gets cold. Take advantage of hot deals on grills and lawnmowers.

2. Laptops

With the back-to-school sales, August is a great time to buy laptops. You won't see bargains like this again until Black Friday.

3. Dorm essentials

Get your college-bound student ready for the dorm. Sign up for Bed Bath and Beyond emails and get twenty percent off any item. If your college student is moving into an apartment, head to the thrift store for furniture and kitchen appliances.

4. Wine

After all that shopping, enjoy a glass of wine. September is when many vineyards harvest grapes. Stores need to make room for new inventory. Wine is cheaper in August.

5. Go on vacation

From August until November it's shoulder season. You'll see discounts up to fifty percent off flights, hotels and other accommodations.

Dates to remember:

August 8 is National Frozen Custard Day.

August 24 is National Waffle Day.

September 2 is Labor Day.

Labor Day sales are just around the corner. It's a good time to buy appliances.