When most of us think of April, we immediately think of paying our taxes.
Indeed, April is probably the month we spend the least because we are holding off to see what we will be giving to Uncle Sam. But if you're in a spending mood this month, here's where you will find some of the best deals.
1. Wedding registry items
According to wedding site TheKnot.com, on average, couples register nearly six months before their wedding. So, if you have a wedding to attend in the popular summer and fall months, plan ahead and save. Small appliances, cookware and linens go on sale in early spring to kick off wedding season, graduations and Mother's Day shopping.
TheKnot.com says the top three stores where couples register are Bed Bath & Beyond, Target and Macy's. Start collecting coupons from these retailers and sign up for their email lists for additional savings. And ask about their price-adjustment policy. For most stores, if an item you buy goes down in price within 10 to 14 days of your purchase, they will credit you back the difference. So mark your calendars and check back. Just save your receipts.
Team up. Wedding etiquette deems it's perfectly all right to go in on a group gift. Many couples expect it when they put big-ticket items on their registry.
2. Cruises
Believe it or not, it's a good time to make your travel plans for 2014. If you're planning on taking a cruise during peak times like spring break or summer, book as early as possible. This will ensure availability at a good price.
CruiseCritic.com recommends booking your cruise six to 12 months in advance if you'd like to travel during prime times. River cruises should be booked 12 to 15 months in advance.
On the other end of the spectrum is a reverse strategy for saving: booking last minute. Last-minute cruises are usually defined as 60 to 90 days before departure, but be aware of all restrictions and policies such as no cancellation or refunds.
For 2013, CruiseCritic.com says you'll find the best deals for European cruises, especially in the eastern and western Mediterranean. Prices also have dropped for Australia, Hawaii and Mexico cruises out of California. CruiseCritic.com also recommends booking with older ships that have been recently refurbished as opposed to new ships, which will cost you much more.
Repositioning cruises also happen in spring (and fall) and can provide opportunities to find a low, last-minute fare. Many ships relocate to keep up with the shifting seasons. For example, ships might be heading north from Mexico to spend summertime in Alaska.
Keep in mind, a repositioning cruise could mean many days spent at sea with few days spent in port. Also, you may have a long, expensive flight home.
3. Roof
Spring's mild temperatures mean it's a good time put a new roof on your home. Consider installing a cool roof (white or other lighter colors), which reflects the sun and keeps the roof temperature down as much as 50 degrees from that of a standard roof. Energy.gov, the website of the U.S. Department of Energy, says this can reduce your air-conditioner usage and cut down on energy bills.
You'll get the best savings with a cool roof when you live in a hot climate. In cold climates, cool roofs could actually have the opposite effect and raise energy bills during the wintertime.
4. Office furniture
Right after tax day, you'll see some great deals on office furniture.
Here's a hidden secret: To get an even better deal, check out county auctions. This is where county, schools and government agencies sell off their surplus office goods. Check with your county or a local university to see if there is an auction near you.
I've found nice office chairs and file cabinets for $15, desks and cameras for $20.
5. Tax Day freebies
And finally, to celebrate the end of tax season, some retailers are offering rewards or discounts.
On April 15, Cinnabon is sweetening tax day with two free Cinnabon Bites at participating locations.
Arby's will be offering special free foods via their site, arbys.com, after April 9. Look for more of these offers the closer we get to April 15.