Excerpted from the 2013 AARP Almanac

En español  |  As the saying goes, for everything there is a season. And there is a season for when you should — and shouldn't — buy a car, a dining room set, a new refrigerator. Here's how your calendar can help you be a savvy shopper.

JANUARY

Sporting goods: Cold weather puts the chill on two-wheeling leisure and ball-field activities, so expect prices to drop with the temperature — at least in colder climates.

Furniture: Many furniture companies introduce items in February, so retailers are eager to make room for new inventory. Expect January sales on previous-year merchandise.

Linens and bedding: So-called white sales are a tradition that's been around since 1878. No reason to expect that will change this year.

Your month-to-month guide to 2013's best buys. — Corbis

FEBRUARY

Air conditioners: Need you ask why? Early winter is also the best time to have existing units serviced — along with lawn mowers.

Cameras: Some industry trade shows occur in January to unveil new models, so older inventory is marked down, and you can snap up bargains.

Luggage: With a lull between the busy holiday travel rush and the beginning of spring break, it's a good time to bag deals.

MARCH

China and flatware: Between the holidays and the upcoming wedding season, retailers dish out discounts.

Gardening tools: Before spring fever hits, inventory may be sparse. But what's available should be cheaper than in coming months.

Winter outerwear: Who thinks about parkas, gloves and hats toward the end of March? Retailers with leftover inventory, that's who. Look for deals and be ready for next winter's wrath.

APRIL

Athletic footwear: Check out spring sale savings on sneakers.

Computers: As tax refunds arrive, so do discounts, especially for laptops.

Vacuum cleaners: Find spring savings before new models come out in the coming months.

MAY

BBQ accessories: Stock up on charcoal and lighter fluid before barbecue season. But hold off on buying grills for now.

Patio furniture: The new stuff hits stores, along with seasonal sales on it and on leftover stock.

Spring and summer clothing: Sales begin in shower-filled April, but the better bargains are in May — especially around Memorial Day weekend.

JUNE

Health club memberships: Gyms empty as more fitness fans opt for outdoor workouts. Look for healthy savings.

Men's suits: Ties may be a classic Father's Day gift, but suits and dress shirts are a better buy.

Tools: Expect sawed-off prices just before and after Father's Day.

JULY

Kitchen appliances: Look for discounts on refrigerators, ranges and microwaves starting mid-month.

Grills: After July 4, expect plenty of markdowns.

Lawn and gardening supplies: As summer reaches its midpoint, prices dip on remaining lawn mowers, as well as on lawn and gardening supplies.

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