The Update

What to Buy and What to Skip in May

May ushers in warmer days, blooming flowers, and the promise of summer fun. It’s also a transitional time in the retail world, which makes it a prime month to score certain deals—if you know where to look. From Memorial Day weekend sales to seasonal clearance events, smart shopping in May can help you save big. But just as some items are marked down, others are still holding onto full price. Here's your guide to what to buy—and what to skip—this month.

What to Buy:

Spring Clothing

Retailers are already looking ahead to summer, which means they’re eager to clear out spring inventory. That’s good news for bargain hunters. Look for markdowns on lightweight jackets, layering pieces, dresses, and cardigans. Many stores offer stackable promotions, so you can combine clearance prices with additional discounts.

Small Kitchen Appliances

Whether you’ve been eyeing an air fryer or need a new blender, May is a good time to upgrade your countertop game. Memorial Day weekend sales often include steep discounts on small kitchen appliances from major brands, especially at department stores and online retailers. It's also a popular time for wedding registries, so many retailers run promotions in this category.

Mattresses and Furniture

If you’ve been putting off that new couch or mattress, now might be the time to act. Memorial Day is one of the biggest furniture sales weekends of the year, with many stores offering significant markdowns and bonus incentives like free delivery or extended warranties. Expect deals both in-store and online.

Vacuum Cleaners

May is often when retailers begin to phase out older vacuum models to make room for new summer releases. This translates to markdowns on popular brands, including both upright and robotic options. Keep an eye on home goods stores and online marketplaces for deals.

Mother’s Day Gifts

With Mother’s Day falling on May 11 this year, retailers are running sales on classic gift items like jewelry, perfumes, skincare sets, and fresh flowers. If you plan ahead, you can find great deals and avoid the last-minute price hikes that often come right before the holiday.

What to Skip:

Summer Apparel

It may feel like the perfect time to stock up on shorts and tank tops, but summer clothing is still fresh on the shelves and priced accordingly. If you can wait a few weeks, you'll start to see markdowns in June and deeper discounts in July as retailers prepare for back-to-school transitions.

Grills and Outdoor Gear

With BBQ season just kicking off, grills, patio sets, and outdoor gear are in high demand—and priced to match. Instead of buying now, consider waiting until mid-summer or the Fourth of July, when retailers begin discounting unsold stock to make room for fall inventory.

TVs and Electronics

While you might see some electronics included in Memorial Day ads, May is not generally the best time for tech deals. Bigger savings usually roll around during back-to-school season (late summer) or in the fall, especially during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. If you’re in the market for a new laptop or TV, patience pays off.

Smart Shopping Tip:

Shopping in May is all about timing. Look for strategic savings tied to holidays and seasonal transitions, and hold off on splurges that will see better discounts down the road. With a little planning, you can enjoy the start of summer and keep your budget intact.

Earn Rewards for May Purchases

Whatever you decide to buy in May, don't forget to use your RGCU Debit Card. You'll earn reward points for every purchase that can be redeemed for cash back, gift cards, travel and more! Reward yourself this Spring!