Best Things to Buy in February
It's hard to believe that over a month has passed since the boisterous holiday season, but I'm sure many of you, like me, are grateful for the slower pace of mid-winter. And though worried thoughts of buying holiday gifts is but a faded memory, anyone who loves to shop should be aware of the best things to buy in any given month.
Today we're talking about the best things to buy in February -- the month of lovey-dovey, ooey-gooey romantic mushy stuff. In addition to the classics, such as chocolate, roses and fancy gourmet dinners, February is also a fantastic time to score deals on small electronics, outdoor goods and post-Valentine's Day sales. Below are a list of eight products that are best to buy in February.
Did you know that one of the least popular months for travel is February? Probably because it's chilly, people don't have time off and because wallets are still recovering from holiday-related travel. That means that luggage is in low demand. By now, you savvy shoppers know that low demand equals low cost. Whether shopping online or in stores, luggage sales are prevalent, so buy now if you need a new suitcase or travel set.
P.S. If, unlike many others, you're able to travel this month, some of the least expensive places to travel during the month of February include: Ireland, China, the Netherlands, most of Western Europe and Dallas, Texas.
Hot Prices:
- Traveler's Chocie Cambridge 3pc. Hardshell Spinner Set, $132.99 (Retail $499.99)
- Hartmann Barbara Barry "Pirouette" Luggage, $50 - $450 (Retail $125 - $750)
- Diane Von Furstenberg Studio Signature Rolling City Bag, $84.95 (Retail $300)
- Anne Klein Cruise Control - 21" Expandable Carry On, $71.99
- ASOS Premium Tartan Suitcase, $48.34
- Baggalini Berlin Bagg, $74.99 ($99.95)
- Leopard Carry On Duffle, $15.99
Even though chocolate is a common gift come Valentine's Day, it's still one of the most appreciated. That's probably because everyone loves a sweet, decadent treat every once in a while. Why buy in February? Because Valentine's Day inspires chocolatiers to create interesting concoctions. For example, Choclatique.com offers a set of Retro Cocktail chocolates: chocolate that tastes just like some of your favorite adult beverages, including Mojito and Old Fashioned ($18 to $55). The traditional route is always appreciated, too. I'm a fan of See's Candies Sweetheart Box, a box of assorted chocolates -- including P-Nut Crunch and Our Peanut Butter Pattie -- packaged in a feminine, heart-shaped box ($16.85).
Hot Prices:
- Wine.com Say It With Chocolate Gift Basket, $29.99 (Retail $39.99)
- Godiva Gold Premium Chocolate Gift Basket, $39.99 (Retail $49.99)
- Chocolate Shop Chocolate Red Wine, $15
- Max Brenner Eighteen Piece Bonbon - Textures Set, $23.90
- Trudeau Chocolate Fondue Set, $24.95
- Barefoot Contessa Chocolate Cupcake and Frosting Mix, $13.95
It shouldn't surprise you to learn that both large and small electronics are one of the most common gifts given throughout the holiday season. After December, though, electronics tend to take a nosedive in terms of sales. This prompts retailers to lower prices, both to move product and make way for new electronics that come out after January's Consumer Electronic Show. From music-oriented electronics, like Livio Radio's Bluetooth Internet Radio Car Kit for the iPhone ($119 with no monthly charge) to devices like Garmin Nuvi's Bluetooth GPS Navigator ($100), there's no shortage of hot deals on small electronics throughout February.
Hot Prices:
- Dolce Gusto Genio De'Longhi EDG455B Espresso Machine, $129.99 (Retail $189.99)
- Cuisinart Plum SmartPower Compact Blender, $49.99 ($69.95)
- West Elm Parsons Audio End Table, $199.99 (Retail $399)
- Cubicool Customizable Speaker Box, $49.99
- Elago In-Ear Noise-Reducing Earphones, $12.99 (Retail $39.99)
Perfumes and cologne also make excellent gifts for Valentine's Day. Not only are there great deals to be had on Valentine's Day boxed fragrance sets, but many companies plan fragrance launches for late January and early February to coincide with Valentine's Day. That means lots of new fragrances have been -- or soon will be -- available for sale. You can also wait to buy fragrances until after February 14 for post-Valentine's Day sales. For the hottest price decreases, buy Valentine's-inspired boxed sets. Retailers will want these moved quickly since they're no longer pertinent.
Hot Prices:
- Elizabeth Arden Red Door Valentine's Day Gift Set, $65 (Retail $100)
- Lancôme Trésor In Love Hearts Valentine's Day Gift Set, $56 (Retail $72)
- Vince Camuto Fragrance Gift Set, $85 (Retail $118)
- Burberry London for Men, $41.49 (Retail $65)
- Sephora Favorites Collector's Edition Fragrance Sampler For Him, $75 (Value $155)
Our hands, legs, feet, hair and face suffer greatly from dry air during the winter months. Just like you lather up with extra sunblock during the summer, you should lather up with extra moisturizers during the winter. Apply a heavy duty moisturizer to your skin at least once a day (though at the beginning and end of your day is best) and deep condition your hair at least once a week. This'll keep you looking healthy, happy and, well, nothing like a crocodile!
Also consider investing in a humidifier, which not only keeps your skin and hair soft, supple and moist, but also helps you breath easier both day and night.
Hot Prices:
- BLOWLUX Hair Masque, $55
- LUSH Skin Drink Moisturizer, $19.95
- Fleur's Rose-Jasmine Moisturizing Milk, $36
- Holmes Cool Mist Humidifier, $29.99
- Vicks Germ Free Humidifier with UV Technology, $19.99 (Retail $69.99)
- My Antho Raspberry Mint - Organic Body Butter, $15.95
Grills
If you live where it's cold, chances are neither you or your neighbors have grilled anything in the past few months. Because demand is low and because retailers are preparing for the "spring rush" come March and April, prices are at their lowest.
Patio Furniture
Just like now's the time to score a killer deal on a grill, it's also the time to buy patio furniture. Though you'll have to keep said furniture in storage until it warms up (for those who live in cold climates), your bank account will thank you for the cheap buys.
Exercise Equipment
You know how everyone makes a New Year's resolution to lose weight? I had to be the bearer of bad news, but a great deal of those people have already given up on their weight loss mission. Retailers know that's a trend and have, accordingly, dropped prices on workout gear and fitness supplies. Stock up now!
Related Stories
Plan the Perfect Valentine's Day Date
Quirky Trend: Insect-Inspired Jewelry
Better with Age: Best Serums for Face, Neck and Eyes
5 Amazing Products for Kissable Lips
Today we're talking about the best things to buy in February -- the month of lovey-dovey, ooey-gooey romantic mushy stuff. In addition to the classics, such as chocolate, roses and fancy gourmet dinners, February is also a fantastic time to score deals on small electronics, outdoor goods and post-Valentine's Day sales. Below are a list of eight products that are best to buy in February.
Luggage
Did you know that one of the least popular months for travel is February? Probably because it's chilly, people don't have time off and because wallets are still recovering from holiday-related travel. That means that luggage is in low demand. By now, you savvy shoppers know that low demand equals low cost. Whether shopping online or in stores, luggage sales are prevalent, so buy now if you need a new suitcase or travel set.P.S. If, unlike many others, you're able to travel this month, some of the least expensive places to travel during the month of February include: Ireland, China, the Netherlands, most of Western Europe and Dallas, Texas.
Hot Prices:
- Traveler's Chocie Cambridge 3pc. Hardshell Spinner Set, $132.99 (Retail $499.99)
- Hartmann Barbara Barry "Pirouette" Luggage, $50 - $450 (Retail $125 - $750)
- Diane Von Furstenberg Studio Signature Rolling City Bag, $84.95 (Retail $300)
- Anne Klein Cruise Control - 21" Expandable Carry On, $71.99
- ASOS Premium Tartan Suitcase, $48.34
- Baggalini Berlin Bagg, $74.99 ($99.95)
- Leopard Carry On Duffle, $15.99
Chocolate Goodies
Even though chocolate is a common gift come Valentine's Day, it's still one of the most appreciated. That's probably because everyone loves a sweet, decadent treat every once in a while. Why buy in February? Because Valentine's Day inspires chocolatiers to create interesting concoctions. For example, Choclatique.com offers a set of Retro Cocktail chocolates: chocolate that tastes just like some of your favorite adult beverages, including Mojito and Old Fashioned ($18 to $55). The traditional route is always appreciated, too. I'm a fan of See's Candies Sweetheart Box, a box of assorted chocolates -- including P-Nut Crunch and Our Peanut Butter Pattie -- packaged in a feminine, heart-shaped box ($16.85).Hot Prices:
- Wine.com Say It With Chocolate Gift Basket, $29.99 (Retail $39.99)
- Godiva Gold Premium Chocolate Gift Basket, $39.99 (Retail $49.99)
- Chocolate Shop Chocolate Red Wine, $15
- Max Brenner Eighteen Piece Bonbon - Textures Set, $23.90
- Trudeau Chocolate Fondue Set, $24.95
- Barefoot Contessa Chocolate Cupcake and Frosting Mix, $13.95
Electronics
It shouldn't surprise you to learn that both large and small electronics are one of the most common gifts given throughout the holiday season. After December, though, electronics tend to take a nosedive in terms of sales. This prompts retailers to lower prices, both to move product and make way for new electronics that come out after January's Consumer Electronic Show. From music-oriented electronics, like Livio Radio's Bluetooth Internet Radio Car Kit for the iPhone ($119 with no monthly charge) to devices like Garmin Nuvi's Bluetooth GPS Navigator ($100), there's no shortage of hot deals on small electronics throughout February.Hot Prices:
- Dolce Gusto Genio De'Longhi EDG455B Espresso Machine, $129.99 (Retail $189.99)
- Cuisinart Plum SmartPower Compact Blender, $49.99 ($69.95)
- West Elm Parsons Audio End Table, $199.99 (Retail $399)
- Cubicool Customizable Speaker Box, $49.99
- Elago In-Ear Noise-Reducing Earphones, $12.99 (Retail $39.99)
Fragrances
Perfumes and cologne also make excellent gifts for Valentine's Day. Not only are there great deals to be had on Valentine's Day boxed fragrance sets, but many companies plan fragrance launches for late January and early February to coincide with Valentine's Day. That means lots of new fragrances have been -- or soon will be -- available for sale. You can also wait to buy fragrances until after February 14 for post-Valentine's Day sales. For the hottest price decreases, buy Valentine's-inspired boxed sets. Retailers will want these moved quickly since they're no longer pertinent.Hot Prices:
- Elizabeth Arden Red Door Valentine's Day Gift Set, $65 (Retail $100)
- Lancôme Trésor In Love Hearts Valentine's Day Gift Set, $56 (Retail $72)
- Vince Camuto Fragrance Gift Set, $85 (Retail $118)
- Burberry London for Men, $41.49 (Retail $65)
- Sephora Favorites Collector's Edition Fragrance Sampler For Him, $75 (Value $155)
Moisturizers/Conditioners
Also consider investing in a humidifier, which not only keeps your skin and hair soft, supple and moist, but also helps you breath easier both day and night.
Hot Prices:
- BLOWLUX Hair Masque, $55
- LUSH Skin Drink Moisturizer, $19.95
- Fleur's Rose-Jasmine Moisturizing Milk, $36
- Holmes Cool Mist Humidifier, $29.99
- Vicks Germ Free Humidifier with UV Technology, $19.99 (Retail $69.99)
- My Antho Raspberry Mint - Organic Body Butter, $15.95
More Best Things to Buy in February:
Grills
If you live where it's cold, chances are neither you or your neighbors have grilled anything in the past few months. Because demand is low and because retailers are preparing for the "spring rush" come March and April, prices are at their lowest.
Patio Furniture
Just like now's the time to score a killer deal on a grill, it's also the time to buy patio furniture. Though you'll have to keep said furniture in storage until it warms up (for those who live in cold climates), your bank account will thank you for the cheap buys.
Exercise Equipment
You know how everyone makes a New Year's resolution to lose weight? I had to be the bearer of bad news, but a great deal of those people have already given up on their weight loss mission. Retailers know that's a trend and have, accordingly, dropped prices on workout gear and fitness supplies. Stock up now!
Related Stories
Plan the Perfect Valentine's Day Date
Quirky Trend: Insect-Inspired Jewelry
Better with Age: Best Serums for Face, Neck and Eyes
5 Amazing Products for Kissable Lips
Comments page 1 of 1
Highest Rank
Barbara said 2-12-2012 @10:01AM
No way would I pay $197 for a Susan G. Koman Sodastream. I bout my for $99 and it does every single thing the Koman one does.
replyBTW, it has been one of the best things I ever bought. Got it 2 years ago and was hoping it wouldn't become one of those things that look good, but never get used. I never needed to worry. I'm not that big of a soda drinker, but you can also get energy drink mixes and my favorite, flavors for plain soda water. Not to mention the times I have added Mio to the water...or a little Tang...the possibilities are endless.
Neutral
Cuchulain said 2-12-2012 @3:08PM
I thank you for your review. I drink about 4-6 bottles of seltzer a day and hate the fact that I contribute to the plastic disregarded in this country. I have been wanting to purchase a machine for two years yet whenever I put my hand to one people warn me against them being "NOT THE SAME...A WASTE OF MONEY!" I seldom substitute others opinions for my own but people seemed as adamant yet they said that they didn't own one, when asked, but knew someone who had. I am going to take a leap of faith and purchase one due to the wastefulness I create by buying so many bottles a week!
Neutral
Dianne said 2-12-2012 @4:02PM
My signature cologne has always been Chanel 22 until a few years ago when I no longer could find it...even at Macy's. I've worn this cologne since I was 21 yrs. old and was alway told "you smell so good" but as I said I cannot find it anymore. I guess after almost 5 decades they feel the younger women do not care for it but I at the age of 21 LOVED it.
replyNeutral
merrill said 2-12-2012 @6:42PM
i did a little research for you. amazon is selling it. i don't know who the seller is but according to one of the reviewers it has been discontinued and difficult to find. one final note, it is very expensive.
good luck.
Highest Rank
Jackie Forte said 2-12-2012 @2:41PM
Even though these prices are reasonable for retail. Ebay has way better deals!
replyNeutral
dan said 2-12-2012 @5:19PM
These prices are that good! They are pricey. If you shop online, you will find better prices elsewhere. What is AOL up to? I have seen better prices at Lowes and HomeDepot in season for the same patio furniture they advertise here at Macy's....OY
reply