7 Things Retirees Should Wait To Buy Until After the Holidays
Written by
Angela Mae
Edited by
Levi Leidy
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
The holiday season is just around the corner, meaning most major retailers are starting to put up their Christmas (and other winter holiday) displays. But while that might be enough to tempt you to go shopping, you’re probably better off waiting to buy certain things until after the holidays — especially if you’re on a fixed retirement income.
Some items actually come down in price after the holidays. This is in large part because retailers are getting ready for the next major event and want to clear the space for something new. Regardless of the reason, don’t let yourself be pressured into buying things before the holidays (unless those purchases absolutely cannot wait).
If you’re looking to save money, whether you’re a retiree or not, here are some things you may want to wait to get until after the holidays.
Gifts
It might seem counterintuitive, but waiting to buy gifts until after the holidays is probably your best bet when it comes to saving money. Many major retailers mark down their prices right after Christmas.
Look for toys and other fun gift ideas in the clearance section after the winter holidays. Whether it’s a gag gift, a gift basket (non-consumable) or a spa set, it doesn’t hurt to have a few things on hand. After all, you don’t have to reserve gift-giving for the winter alone. And these types of things last, making them great as welcome gifts, thank-you gifts or even birthday presents.
Holiday Decor
Many stores have post-holiday shopping sales. Target, for example, has an annual After Christmas Shopping Sale online where you can find items throughout the store at a discount. The only downside is that other people are going to have the same idea, so you’ll need to shop quickly to avoid supplies running out.
As for the types of items you can buy, a big one would be holiday decor. This includes tree decorations like tinsel, lights and stars. But it can also include ribbons, gift wrap and other paraphernalia. Many of these holiday-specific items dip in price right after the day itself passes.
Cold-Weather Attire
As a retiree, chances are you’ve already either downsized your wardrobe (if only to simplify your life) or have thought about it. But that doesn’t mean you’ll never need new clothes. Right after the winter holidays is a good time to go shopping for cold-weather apparel since most retailers will slash their prices in preparation for the next season.
As long as you don’t need it right now, consider purchasing seasonal wear — like heavy jackets, coats, scarves, boots and gloves — after the holidays. Depending on where you live, you might even be able to use what you buy the same year, if only for a few more months.
Athleticwear and Fitness Gadgets
If you live a more active retirement lifestyle, athletic apparel and fitness equipment might be high on your shopping list. That said, see if you can wait until after the holidays when things start to go on sale.
Unlike with seasonal goods, you might not find as many deals on athleticwear. At the same time, you could score some lightly-used fitness equipment shortly after the new year. Many people make New Year’s Resolutions to hit the gym or become more fit, but not as many stick with those goals. If you check sites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, you’re bound to find some inexpensive equipment.
Halloween Candy
The National Retail Federation predicted that consumers in the U.S. spent roughly $3.6 billion on Halloween candy (and another $3.9 billion on decorations) in 2023. While candy won’t last you until next year, seasonal decor will — and you can get it on sale at most stores right after the holiday passes.
As for the candy, you might want to have some on hand in case the kids (or grandkids) happen by. And if you have a sweet tooth of your own, you’ll probably be glad to have a few pieces around to satisfy your cravings.
Kitchenware
Around the holidays, and sometimes directly after, stores will put kitchen gadgets and accessories on sale. At Macy’s, for example, you can find steep discounts on small kitchen appliances (e.g., $160 for a $200 blender/food processor system), pots, pans and dishes.
Deals don’t generally last long, so you might need to keep an eye out for what you actually need and wait until it goes on sale. Once it does and you buy it, you’ll have it for the next time you need it — whether that’s next year’s holiday party or daily use.
Electronics and Appliances
Everyone knows about Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, but they really are a great time to go shopping for electronics and home appliances. On average, you could save about 34% by shopping online on Black Friday. And if you need electronics or appliances, retailers like Amazon and Best Buy are ones to watch.
If you wait until after Christmas, though, you could also score some end-of-the-year deals as retailers cycle out last year’s products for the next. And if you don’t need something brand new, consider shopping on a platform like Facebook Marketplace or at a local thrift shop for secondhand goods.
Just be careful as used appliances and electronics are more likely to be faulty than new ones. To avoid this, purchase new but get the older generation or model of whatever it is you need.
More From GOBankingRates
