When it comes to scoring the best deals online, timing can make all the difference. Retailers operate on predictable cycles, and understanding when to shop can save you a significant amount of money. Knowing the best times to buy certain products can help you avoid paying full price and catch discounts before they disappear.

One of the most important timing factors is seasonal sales. Major holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Prime Day are obvious examples, but there are also lesser-known sales like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and end-of-season clearances. These are prime times for snagging deals on clothing, electronics, and home goods. Additionally, January is a great month for fitness equipment and winter clothing, while August is perfect for back-to-school supplies and electronics.

Weekday timing can also be crucial. Some studies suggest that the best time to find online deals is midweek, especially on Wednesdays and Thursdays. This is when retailers often try to boost midweek sales, offering flash deals or limited-time discounts.

Timing within the day matters, too. Early mornings and late nights are often when retailers quietly roll out markdowns, hoping to catch early risers or late-night shoppers. If you’re aiming for a hot item, try logging on before your morning coffee or just before bed.

Finally, don’t forget about price history. Use tools like CamelCamelCamel or Honey’s price tracker to see if a product’s current "sale” price is genuinely a deal or just a temporary drop before another markdown.

With a little planning, you can turn timing into your biggest money-saving strategy.