What to Buy in February

By now, most Frugal Yankees know there are seasons for just about everything. This includes many items not in groceries. The following is a list of deals to find in February. The Frugal Yankee doesn't recommend buying anything just because it is "in season". Buy it if you need it and get the better deal when it is "in season."

Last month, the CES, Consumer's Electronic Show, was held. This is when manufacturers start pumping out new gadgets and gizmos designed to titillate the Techie Nerd in all of us. For the Frugal Yankee it means showrooms trying to unload last year's models to clear space for the new products. This is a time to look for deals on digital cameras and the like. Presidents Day Holiday will be the most opportune time to make that score. The same can be said for video games. By the way, Presidents Day weekend will also be a good time to find deals on certain appliances.
Now, if you live the cold part of the country and are looking for a warm place to thaw the bones out, consider Las Vegas. Right after the year-end deals expire, and in the first two months of the new year, airlines and hotels are offering deals. Do you wonder why some conventions are held in January in Las Vegas? That's right, low fares and low hotel room rates. If gambling, some decent weather and lots of neon sounds like a good idea, poke around Las Vegas.

Here's something you may not have considered for a mid-winter deal - taking a tree down. Call your landscaper/nursery now. Tree companies have little to do in the winter months and their rates will be exceedingly off peak. Be sure to drive a good bargain. Oh, here's another benefit. At this time of year, there won't be any leaves to rake.

Speaking of off peak, how many people buy motorcycles when there is 8 inches of frozen white stuff on the ground? Not many. Use that fact if you're looking to buy a new or used one. For a dealer, a bird in the hand is better than no sale at all. This is also a time when boat shows start popping up. Prices will be low because dealers know most folks aren't going to buy unless there is a deal. Of course, the Frugal Yankee's idea of a boat comes with two oars and a bailing bucket.

Valentines Day is in February, but few people think of getting married on the most romantic day of the year. Most folks opt for June, when halls are expensive, caterers are expensive and just about everything else is expensive. A winter wedding, even a Valentines Day wedding, will be far cheaper. It is a good idea to start off a marriage saving money rather than spending.

As usual there are foods in season in February. Prices will vary, but here is a list of what you can expect to see at decent prices.

Fruits: citrus fruits from California should be well priced, for example lemons, oranges, tangelos and grapefruit. Also decent prices on papayas and rhubarb will pop up. Another fruit to think about is cranberries. They'll be out of season soon, so stock up if you like them. Blueberries from Chile are in season. They won't be as inexpensive as our native ones, but pricing should be competitive. Stores will use these as loss leaders to bring you in. Enjoy their largesse while you can.
In terms of fresh vegetables, broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower will be the best bets.

Thankfully February is a short month. It is also one of the harshest ones, but there are still deals to be had. You just need to remember what it takes to be a frugal Yankee - spend less, enjoy life more.