Javascript is not enabled.

Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again.

Skip to content
Content starts here
CLOSE ×
Search
Leaving AARP.org Website

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

Best Things to Buy in June

Get deals on athletic gear, tools — and maybe a free doughnut


spinner image A collection of images showing items that could be bargains in june
AARP (Source: Getty Images (7))

Sandwiched between the big shopping weekends of Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, June has fewer deals on big-ticket items, but some promotional events are worth smart shoppers’ attention.

Those include deals on traditional Father’s Day (June 16) gifts like tools and sporting goods, items for newlyweds or recent grads, and semiannual sales from retailers looking to drum up summer business from distracted shoppers.

“We usually see the big retailers, like Bath & Body Works and Brooks Brothers, leading the way with semiannual sales in June, but smaller online retailers and boutiques and physical stores will follow suit, because they know people are out shopping because of the sales,” says Kimberly Palmer, a consumer expert with Nerdwallet.

Plus, some of those holiday weekend sales will likely seep into June.

“Usually, some Memorial Day sales get extended through the first week of the month, and you may also get lucky with some early July Fourth sales,” says Julie Ramhold, a senior staff writer and consumer analyst at DealNews. 

You may also see some deals at shops like Dunkin’, Krispy Kreme and Duck Donuts, offering freebies in honor of National Doughnut Day, which each year falls on the first Friday of June. ​Beyond that, here are some categories to watch for savings this month:

Athletic gear

As summer officially kicks in, retailers look to attract shoppers who might be preparing to spend more time outdoors. Sporting goods stores will also likely have deals on sports gear that might make for a good Father’s Day present such as golf clubs, hiking shoes or camping equipment.

In addition to sports gear, keep an eye out for discounts on gym and fitness studio memberships, since demand falls when people prefer to exercise outside. That also holds true for large indoor exercise equipment.

“I would look at gym memberships this month, because you may be able to lock in lower prices,” says Sarah Jankowski, director of user growth and integrated marketing at Shopkick.

Where to find deals: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Lululemon, Peloton

Potential savings: 30 to 40 percent off

Cookware

As graduation season winds down and wedding season ramps up, retailers offer deals on classic gifts for folks setting up a new kitchen such as pots and pans, serving trays and cooking utensils. That makes this a great time to stock up on gifts for coming events, or to upgrade your own kitchen supplies.

Where to find deals: Le Creuset, Macy’s, Sur La Table

Potential savings: 20 to 30 percent off

Lingerie

Victoria’s Secret typically runs its semiannual sale this month. It’s a great opportunity to pick up not only bras and panties but also pajamas and swimsuits. Because the sale is high-profile, competitors may also drop their prices on similar items to capitalize on the buzz.

“If there’s another brand in that space that you’re interested in, check them out to see if they’re trying to compete,” Ramhold says.

Where to find deals: Victoria’s Secret, Frederick’s of Hollywood, Lane Bryant

Potential savings: Up to 60 percent off

PC games

The PC game seller Steam hosts its semiannual sale this month. While it offers discounts on most titles, the best deals will be on older, classic games.

Where to find deals: Steam, Gog.com, Best Buy

Potential savings: Up to 80 percent off

Tools

Home improvement stores often drop prices this month on traditional Father’s Day gifts like power tools, lawn equipment and grilling accessories.

“If it’s giftable for Father’s Day, it’s going to go on sale in the early part of June, because retailers know that people are starting to shop for Dad,” says Kristin McGrath, a shopping expert at RetailMeNot.​Keep in mind that if sales are slow before Father’s Day, bigger discounts may come in the second half of the month.

Where to find deals: Lowe’s, Home Depot, Vermont Tool Company

Potential savings: Around 40 percent

Bath products

Fans of Bath & Body Works mark their calendars for the store’s semiannual sale, which takes place this month. It typically includes discounts on nearly everything in the store, including bath products, candles and air fresheners.

“That might be a good opportunity to start thinking ahead to the holidays,” says budgeting expert Andrea Woroch. “Some of the items on sale might be great to pick up as gifts for teachers or last-minute hostess gifts.”

Stores with similar goods may drop prices too this month to compete with the high-profile sale.

Where to find deals: Bath & Body Works, the Body Shop, Amazon

Potential savings: Up to 50 percent

Unlock Access to AARP Members Edition

Join AARP to Continue

Already a Member?