The holidays are over, but the savings season is just beginning! What savvy shoppers know is that the weeks right after the holidays are some of the best times of the year to stretch your money. Retailers are now discounting seasonal goods and popular products to clear space for new inventory, and you can really benefit. Keep reading to learn what you should consider buying right after the holidays to save big.

1. Wrapping Paper and Gift Bags

As soon as the holidays end, stores slash prices on wrapping paper, gift bags, bows, and tags – often 50% to 75% off. These supplies are perfect to stock up on for the next year. Keep them organized in a clear container labeled by size and occasion so you’re always ready when gift season rolls around again.

2. Holiday Decor

Everything from artificial trees to outdoor inflatables, ornaments, and string lights drop in price after December 25th. If you decorate every year, buying ahead can save you a bundle. Only buy decor you truly love or will use again though. Quality holiday items can last for many seasons.

3. Winter Clothing and Gear

Post-holiday markdowns extend to winter apparel such as coats, boots, gloves, hats, and cold-weather gear. Retailers know demand dips after gift buying, so discounts can be significant.  Buying winter gear on clearance in January means you’re set for the remainder of this winter and to kick off the next.

4. Fitness Items and New Year Essentials

While prices on gym equipment and activewear are often high in December, starting in January – retailers begin discounting items tied to New Year’s resolutions like fitness gear, yoga mats, home-gym equipment, and sports apparel. You’ll want to make a list before heading to the store so you don’t overspend.

5. Holiday Candy and Treats

After the holidays, seasonal candies and packaged treats are heavily discounted, sometimes up to 70% off. Because many of these items have a long shelf life, they can be great for stocking your pantry. Use these for baking, party platters, or as affordable treats throughout the year.

6. Toys and Gift Items

Toy discounts skyrocket as retailers prepare for new seasonal assortments. Whether it’s board games, building sets, or action figures – you can often find quality gifts at a fraction of original price. Now is the perfect time to pick up gifts for upcoming birthdays or do early holiday shopping for next year!

7. Baking and Pantry Staples

Some stores also discount holiday baking supplies like flour, sugar, spices, and chocolate chips once the season ends. Because they store well, you can buy in bulk now and save. Stock up on what you know your household will use before expiration.

How This Fits Your Financial Plan

Shopping smart after the holidays can be a helpful strategy for managing your household budget.

• Stretch your dollars. Buying items at steep discounts means more money stays in your savings or goes toward debt reduction.
• Plan ahead. If you know what you’ll need later in the year, after-holiday sales offer a chance to check those off at lower prices.
• Avoid impulse buys. Not every discount is a bargain. Stick to your list and only buy what aligns with your financial goals.

A Chance to Save

The post-holiday period isn’t just about ending one season, it’s a chance to save and get ahead for the next. Whether you’re replacing last year’s decor, prepping for birthdays, or stocking up on essentials – thoughtful spending now can pay off big in the months ahead.

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