What’s on sale in January

Shop smarter and save money by knowing what’s on sale each month. Here’s the sale calendar for January:

Computers, electronics and cameras: The world’s biggest electronics show, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, is always the first week of January. As soon as new models are introduced, the ones they are replacing go on sale. If Santa didn’t bring you a new  smartphone, tablet, computer, HDTV, digital camera or home entertainment system, you’ll find one on sale now.

Cruises: January is traditionally a quiet month for the cruise industry – in between holiday and spring break travel. So this is a great time to search for bargains on cruises. Best deals always are so-called repositioning cruises, when cruise lines move their ships from winter itineraries in the Caribbean to summer itineraries in the Mediterranean.

Home appliances and cookware: Everything from washing machines to coffeemakers goes on sale immediately after the holidays, along with pots and pans.

Post-holiday sales: No surprise. Merchants are clearing the shelves to get ready for spring, so look for big discounts on fall and winter clothing, including shoes, especially winter boots. And don’t forget to check out museum gift shops, since they also have post-holiday clearance sales, and are great sources for distinctive gifts.

Bed and bath linens: Back in the day, this was called the January White Sale. Whatever it’s called these days, discounts are up to half-off depending on the retailer, and usually includes other bed and bath products such as pillows and tub mats and even carpets and rugs.

Winter sports equipment and clothing: Although the ski and snowboard season is through April, retailers begin clearing their stock now.

SuperBowl sales: Look for sales on beer, chips and other popular nibbles before the big day, along with all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink specials at sports bars.  Also plan for   BOGO or topping deals from national pizza chains.

What’s on sale in February?  Expect to find flowers and gifts for Valentine’s Day, Presidents Weekend sales and more.  We’ll have the full list early in February.