JUNE BARGAINS
Warm weather, wedding season, and hurricane season all bring discounts in June. Consumers will also find continuing sales on some items that were good deals in May. Here's a look at the best things to buy in June. And while you’re at it, find out the best time to buy almost anything all year.
TROPICAL VACATIONS
June signals the onset of hurricane season and sweltering temperatures in the Caribbean. For travelers willing to take their chances with the weather, this is the perfect time to scoop up deals on cruises and tropical vacation packages, especially for last-minute bookings.
GYM MEMBERSHIP
As the weather improves and people move their workouts outside, June sales surface at gyms and health clubs that are running hard to sign up new members. Consumers who enjoy haggling should be able to negotiate a larger than normal discount on a gym membership.
WORKOUT GEAR
With more people wanting to get into "swimsuit shape," retailers offer rock-bottom prices on fitness apparel. Think shoes, clothes, and accessories for the gym or outdoor workouts.
LINGERIE
Victoria's Secret's famed semi-annual sale takes place in June, bringing deals from the lingerie giant -- and from its competitors. With cheap gym memberships also available in June, now is the time to acquire a few new pieces to complement a newly toned body.
DINNER FOR DAD
Father's Day falls on June 17, and while there aren't many sales on traditional Father's Day gifts, national restaurant chains often advertise deals on dinner out -- think buy-one-get-one entrees. Take advantage to treat dad this Father's Day without spending an arm and a leg.
DISHES AND COOKWARE
May ushered in deep discounts on cookware, between Mother's Day and the dawn of wedding season, and many of those deals continue through June. Prices on dishware also start dropping as wedding season gains momentum. Dishes and cookware make practical graduation gifts for young adults moving out on their own.
TOOLS AND PAINT
The absolute best deals on tools are typically found in October or November, but a few bargains emerge around Father's Day. Take advantage of the discounts for summer DIY projects that call for power tools or a coat of paint.
MOVIE PASSES
June signals the onslaught of summer blockbusters. Big budgets and an audience eager to escape the heat spur movie ticket discounts and other incentives. Some theaters also show kids' movies at bargain prices on weekdays in the summer. Regal Cinemas charges only $1 for family favorites on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. In many cities, there are free movie screenings in parks and other public spaces.
FOODS IN SEASON
June brings a fresh fruit and vegetable boom, an ideal time to get in the habit of buying local produce. Depending where you live, the fruits to buy include melons (watermelon and cantaloupe), berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries), and stone fruits (apricots, peaches, and nectarines). Kick off the grilling season with sales on the first crop of sweet corn, summer squash, green beans, and tomatoes, plus lettuce and cucumber for salads.
DOUGHNUTS
National Doughnut Day falls on June 1 this year. Be on the lookout for free glazed goodness from places such as Krispy Kreme, Dunkin' Donuts, and Tim Hortons, as well as more unique doughnuts from independent shops and bakeries across the country.