Best Things to Buy in August

Although the end of summer signifies getting back into the swing of things and perhaps less time outdoors, fall offers a wealth of perks as well. From bonfire chats to hot apple cider, decorated pumpkins to the holiday rush, autumn offers just as many goodies as summer and spring. August, of course, represents the beginning of fall. It's when students head back to school (allowing parents to focus more on work) and when outdoor shenanigans transition into indoor events.

The best things to buy in August is a reflection of this transition from summer into fall. As always, the items with the lowest demand are where you'll find the best deals. Continue reading to learn what we've discovered are the best buys for this month.

Storage Supplies

In the spring there's a "storage container rush," so to speak, since so many participate in an annual spring cleaning. Come summer, college students continue this rush in an effort to prepare for smaller apartments and dorm rooms. As the summer comes to a close, though, storage container demand goes down. And, naturally, with a decrease in demand, prices also fall. Buy now if you want to snag the best deals on storage containers and organizational goods.

Hot Prices:
Pyrex Cooking Solved No-Leak Glass - Set of 3, $27.99 (reg. $40)
Food Network Porcelain Tool Crock, $12.99 (reg. $24.99)
3-Tier Storage Cart, $41.99 (reg. $59.99)
Winsom Wood Leo Storage Baskets (Set of 3), $41.36 (reg. $110.99)
Marketplace by Thomasville Kimmswick Media Pier, $249.99 (reg. $549.99)
Collegiate 30" Footlocker w/ Wheels, $76.99 (reg. $123)
6-pocket Bedside Storage, $12.22 (reg. $26.10)
Rubbermaid 20-pocket Shoe Organizer, $19.97 (reg. $26.99)

Pictured: Handy Gourmet Swirl Around Food Storage Containers, $15.88 (reg. $29.99)

Athletic Shoes

You'll find that footwear, in general, is cheaper in August. Athletic shoes, including sneakers, running shoes and specialty fitness shoes, see the biggest cuts, though. according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, many shoe companies will post 10 - 20 percent off sales in the late summer, but the biggest deals are to be had in August and September. If you can, wait to buy new kicks (for you and family) until then.


Hot Prices:
Reebok Womens Runtone Action Running Shoe, from $37.98 (reg. $100)
Garmont Mens Momentum Hiking Shoe, $59.75 (from $109.95)
Adidas Running - Climacool Solution, from $64 (from reg. $80)
K-Swiss Womens Jillian Michaels Tube Running Shoes, $43.72 (reg. $88)
Columbia Women's Descender Trail Shoes, from $39.99 (reg. $80)
Fila Mens DLS Loop Running Shoes, from $41.25 (reg. $90)

Pictured: Puma Bolt Faas 200 Running Shoes (Unisex), from $46 (reg. $85)

Backpacks

By August, most parents have already crossed everything off their extensive "back to school" list. You may find yourself in the same category, but if not, August is the time to buy. Ask your children to use last year's backpack for a few more weeks and then bask in the glory of hugely discounted backpacks once school's back in session. You'll find great deals both in stores and online.

Hot Prices:
Aldo Staine Backpack, $19.99 (reg. $45)
Aeropostale Striped Buckle Backpack, $35 (reg. $49.50)
T-Shirt & Jeans Faux Leather & Canvas Backpack, $26.90 (reg. $42)
Reebok Backpack - Z Series L, $49.99 (reg. $100)
Jansport Wheeled Superbreak Backpack (available in multiple colors), $55.99 (reg. $115)
L.L. Bean Deluxe Book Pack, $16.99 (reg. $22.96)
Fox Road Trip Backpack, $22.99 (reg. $34)
RoxyShadow Women's Los Angeles Assorted, $33.60 (reg. $42)

Pictured: Aeropostale Floral Graphic Buckle Backpack, $30 (reg. $49.50)

Belts & Scarves

Buying a ton of new clothes is expensive. A less-costly belt, scarf or accessory, on the other hand, can actually rejuvenate your wardrobe without inducing post-purchase guilt. In fact, sales data from ShopItToMe revealed that online discounts for scarves, belts and other accessories averaged just over 50%.

Hot Prices:
Chico's Striped Tie-Dye Scarf, $14.99 (from $39)
Anne Klein Web Panel Belt, $19 (from $45)
Lands' End Women's Multi Plaid Wool Gauze Scarf, $16.99 (from $49.50)
J.Crew Skinny Leather Belt, $24.99 (reg. $34.50)
Urban Outfitters Lurx Macrame Scarf, $6.99 (from $24)

Pictured: Aeropostale Skinny Suede Belt in Blue or Red, $14.75 (from $29.50)

Women's Sleepwear

From barely there slips to full on cotton pajamas, you'll find that women's sleepwear is also cheaper in August compared to the rest of the year. Lots of brands host specials on their summer pajamas to make room for heartier options such as flannel and fleece, so take advantage of those deals if you're in need of a few more sleepwear options. You may find some great deals on mens sleepwear, as well, but the biggest discounts are found in the female department.

Hot Prices:
Hello Kitty Cozy Night Top & Pant Pajama Set, $19.50 (reg. $39)
Juicy Couture Mesh Stripe Nightie, $29.99 (reg. $49.99)
On Gossamer Boudour Blooms Tulle Robe with Lace, $32.28 (reg. $75)
DKNY Ditsy Print Striped Sleep Chemise, $21.49 (reg. $58)
Anthropologie Sky & Earth Romper, $89.95 (from $178)
PJ Salvage Knit Pajamas, $44.90 (reg. $68)
Stan Herman Shawl Wrap, $37.50 (reg. $75)

Pictured: Apt. 9 Layer Up Lace Trim Pajama Set, $20 (from $40)

Linens

Linen prices are slashed for the same reasons storage containers are discounted come August. That includes bedding sets, sheets, pillows and shams, duvets, towels and washcloths. Stock up now if you need to replace or restock your linens (or foresee yourself doing so in the coming months).

Hot Prices:
Anthropologie Mantinicus Napkins, $29.95 (from $58)
Pottery Barn Woodland Organic Duvet Cover and Sham Set, $28.99 - $78.99 (reg. $39 - $129)
Champagne & White Hotel Block Embossed Leaf Comforter Bed-in-a-Bag (Full or Double size), $49.99 (reg. $250)
Sky Basic Solid Full Sheet Set (Lagoon and Jade color), $39.99 (reg. $120)
6pc. Egyptian Cotton Towels, $36.99 (reg. $139.99)
Food Network 3-pack Ribbed Kitchen Towels, $8.99 (reg. $17.99)

Pictured: Charter Club Bedding, Damask Collection, $29.99 - $139.99 (reg. from $50 - $215)