As retailers kick off early holiday sales, experts are advising consumers to adopt a strategic approach to maximize savings. Key categories this week include toys, small appliances, home goods, and Amazon devices, while purchases of electronics and winter clothing should be postponed until later sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
A range of retailers, including Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and Kohl’s, are launching early sales, creating a competitive market for shoppers. According to retail expert Stephanie Carls, “Toys are always the first category to sell out during the holiday season. And this year, parents are starting earlier than ever.” She emphasizes that this week is an optimal time to purchase toys, as well as small appliances like air fryers, coffee makers, and vacuums.
Carls also points out that now is an excellent time to buy Amazon devices, including Fire Sticks, Echo speakers, and Kindles. “Amazon is discounting its own products heavily during these Prime Day sales,” she added.
In contrast, experts advise delaying purchases of electronics, particularly televisions. Samantha Gordon from Consumer Reports suggests, “If you’re thinking about buying a TV for the holidays, wait until Black Friday.” This advice extends to winter clothing and seasonal gear, which are expected to see further markdowns during the peak sale days of late November.
To ensure that consumers are truly getting a good deal, experts recommend verifying price histories. “Many retailers will drop the sale price that has been available for the last few weeks or months and make something full price again right before a sale starts,” Gordon cautioned. This tactic can mislead shoppers into thinking they are receiving a significant discount.
Several websites provide price tracking services for retailers like Amazon, allowing consumers to monitor price changes and receive alerts for drops. These tools can be beneficial for savvy shoppers looking to make informed purchases.
Currently, Rakuten is running its Big Stack promotion, offering shoppers 10% cash back on eligible purchases, further incentivizing early holiday shopping. By taking advantage of these strategies, consumers can navigate the complex landscape of early holiday sales and make the most of their budgets.
In summary, experts recommend focusing on specific categories this week and holding off on electronics and winter wear until larger sales events. By employing strategic shopping techniques, consumers can maximize their savings during the holiday season.
