The August Advantage: Hidden Sales You Didn’t Know You Could Shop Now

August is often seen as the calm before the retail storm of fall and holiday shopping—but savvy shoppers know it’s actually a goldmine for hidden deals. While back-to-school sales steal the spotlight, there are lesser-known discounts happening across categories like tech, home goods, and fashion. Here’s where to look and why August might just be your new favorite shopping month.

End-of-Summer Clearance on Outdoor Furniture

Retailers like Macy’s and Ashley Furniture typically begin clearing out patio sets, grills, and outdoor décor in August to make room for fall inventory. While not always heavily advertised, these markdowns can reach up to 50% off. It’s the perfect time to upgrade your outdoor space for next year—at a fraction of the price.

Tech Deals Beyond Back-to-School

While laptops and tablets are front and center for students, many retailers extend these deals to all shoppers. Best Buy, for example, often includes discounts on home office gear like monitors, webcams, and wireless routers. These are ideal for remote workers or anyone upgrading their home setup 1.

Dorm Décor = Apartment Upgrades

Stores like Target and Urban Outfitters run “dorm essentials” sales in August, but many of these items—like storage bins, lighting, and compact furniture—are perfect for small apartments or home offices. Look for bundle deals and clearance tags in-store and online.

Fitness Gear Quietly Goes on Sale

With summer winding down, retailers begin discounting seasonal fitness gear like water bottles, yoga mats, and activewear. Adidas and Target often run quiet promotions in August, especially online. It’s a great time to stock up before fall fitness goals kick in.

Subscription Services Offer Pre-Holiday Promos

Some software and streaming services begin offering early fall promotions in August to lock in users before the holiday rush. Keep an eye out for deals on platforms like Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft 365, and even Spotify or Hulu.

Shop Smarter, Not Louder

August may not scream “sale season,” but that’s exactly why it’s so valuable. With fewer crowds and less competition, you can score big on essentials and upgrades—if you know where to look. So skip the hype and shop the hidden gems this month. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.