Deal radar: late September

Sale timing varies by retailer and year. Treat this as a map of where to look, and confirm every price against its history before buying. Our guide to reading price charts takes five minutes.

New accessory models tend to launch in the fall, and the previous generation often gets discounted to clear space. Back-to-school promotions on laptop accessories can also linger into early October.

Check before you buy

• Compare the previous and current model: is the new feature worth the price gap?
• For hubs, check power pass-through wattage and external-monitor support.
• Buy storage (memory cards, USB drives) only from well-known sellers to avoid fakes.

Baking staples, spices and seasonal flavors are commonly promoted ahead of fall and holiday baking. Small kitchen appliances start showing early holiday pricing in some stores.

Check before you buy

• Compare price per ounce or per count, not the package price.
• Buy only what you'll use before the best-by date.
• For appliances, compare against last year's November sale price if you can find it.

Dorm and organization items bought for back-to-school often go to clearance once the season ends. Cleaning supplies run frequent multi-buy promotions.

Check before you buy

• Multi-buy offers ("buy 2, get 1") only help if you'd use all three.
• Check assembled dimensions for storage furniture.
• Clearance items may be final sale; read the return policy.

Several retailers begin "early holiday" toy promotions in October. The deepest toy prices historically arrive in November, so early deals are best for popular items that may sell out.

Check before you buy

• Look up the item's price history: is this already near last year's holiday low?
• Check age range and battery requirements before buying.
• Holiday return windows are often extended; confirm the dates.

Personal-care essentials go on promotion year-round. The best prices usually come from stacking a store coupon, a sale price and cashback.

Check before you buy

• Check expiration dates on sunscreen, vitamins and medicines.
• Compare cost per ounce or per count across sizes.
• Prefer items sold directly by the retailer to avoid counterfeits.

Patio furniture, grills and pool supplies are typically at end-of-season clearance now. Markdowns often come in steps, and stock gets thin as they deepen.

Check before you buy

• Large items can carry high shipping fees; compare store pickup.
• Floor models may be sold as-is; inspect before buying.
• Check warranty terms on grills and outdoor power equipment.