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Pumpkin spice season might be in full swing, but the real excitement this October is all about shopping. Before the holiday chaos hits, major retailers are rolling out early deals that rival even Black Friday prices.

Experts say this is the perfect month to check off your gift list, or treat yourself. without battling November crowds. From gadgets to cookware, October’s “pre-holiday” sales are the sweet spot between end-of-summer clearances and winter blowouts.

Whether you’re upgrading your tech, refreshing your wardrobe, or prepping your kitchen for Thanksgiving, the savings are too good to pass up. Here’s what’s worth grabbing this month before prices climb again.

Computers and Electronics: Big-name retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart are dropping major discounts on laptops, smart devices, and TVs. Prime members can expect exclusive savings during Amazon’s Big Deals Days, and Best Buy and Walmart have their own early sale windows. With prices slashed up to 50-percent, it’s the perfect time to snag that gadget you’ve been eyeing.
Cookware and Small Appliances: Prepping for the holiday cooking rush? October brings heavy markdowns on blenders, mixers, and cookware at Target, Costco, and Amazon. Expect savings of 25-to-50-percent as brands push their “get-ready-for-Thanksgiving” sales.
Fall Apparel: Mid-to-late October is when fall fashion finally goes on sale. Think cozy sweaters, boots, and lightweight jackets. Retailers like Macy’s, J. Crew, and Target start discounting items by 25-to-40-percent to make way for winter stock. You’ll score great deals and still have time to wear your finds before it gets too cold.
Grills and Patio Furniture: Outdoor gear gets steep discounts as stores clear out summer inventory. Retailers like Lowe’s, Costco, and Sam’s Club are cutting prices by as much as 60-percent. If you’re flexible on brand or style, you can find incredible bargains before everything’s gone.
Luggage and Travel Gear: With summer travel wrapped up, October means overstocked luggage sales. Look for deals up to 50-percent off at Kohl’s, Macy’s, and Samsonite. It’s a great time to gear up for fall trips or get ready for holiday travel.
Summer Apparel: Retailers are practically giving away summer clothing to free up shelf space. Clearance racks are filled with $5 T-shirts and swimsuits marked down up to 75-percent. Buy now and thank yourself next year when you pull out “brand-new” summer gear.
Tires: October’s safety campaigns bring rebates and discounts on new tires—perfect timing before winter hits. Costco and Discount Tire are offering deals plus rebates worth up to $200. It’s not the most glamorous purchase, but definitely one of the smartest.
Toys: Don’t wait for December panic to hit: October’s toy deals are already rolling out. Target’s offering 30-percent off select LEGO sets, and Amazon has early markdowns too. Shopping now helps you avoid shortages and last-minute stress.

Source: AARP

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Bob Delmont