What are the best items to buy in August?

Timing is everything. To get the best deals, you've got to know when to shop.

There are some purchases that are difficult to time perfectly, such as stocks, airplane tickets and gas. But many other consumer staples -- from cars to electronics to produce -- go on sale predictably at certain times of the year, saving you a bundle if you plan your purchases accordingly.

AUGUST: Patio furniture

Buy outdoor furniture in August as summer wraps up and retailers clear out their inventory. You'll still have a couple months of nice weather to enjoy your purchase -- not to mention you'll be ready for next year.

Retailers usually start marking down pieces around July 4 (we've seen deals around 25% off), but the big discounts roll in during August (up to 50% off).


AUGUST: Outdoor toys

August is the best time to buy swimming gear, swing sets, beach toys and other items for outdoor fun as retailers make room on their shelves for fall and winter merchandise. Look for discounts of 30% to 75%.


AUGUST: School and office supplies

Even if you don't have a student in your household, you can benefit during the back-to-school shopping season, when retailers offer some of the year's lowest prices on pens, pencils, paper and notebooks.

You can also find bargains on staplers, printer paper, file folders and other home-office necessities.

AUGUST: Swimwear
The August/September back-to-school shopping season is also a great time to buy swimwear. Families' minds -- and wallets -- shift from summer to fall, so retailers clear out bikinis and replace them with coats.

ALL SUMMER LONG: Produce
From strawberries and peaches to tomatoes and corn, fruits and vegetables abound in June, July and August. This glut of supply makes for a good time to stock up.You can freeze, can or dry the bounty for eating in the leaner months ahead.