Best Time to Buy: Spring Preparations

The first day of spring is less than a month away, giving us hope that all of this snow, ice, rain and cold will disappear and that we can get back to living in comfort.

But before the sun melts the freeze away, now is a good time to catch some deals on things you'll likely need for the spring. Here are some deals that were valid as of early Tuesday morning, although be sure to check first because these deals expire fast.

Grill
What better way to usher in spring than with a barbecue? The Char-Griller Smokin Pro 1224 Grill is $198 from J&R, although adding an estimated $60.90 for shipping will drive it up to $259. GrillsDirect.com sells it for $219.98 with free shipping, which is 19% off the list price of $269.99.

Bike
Paying $1,000 for a bike is a lot of money, but the 2010 Motobecane Immortal Pro Bike from Bikes Direct with free shipping is $1,595 off the list price and the lowest total price we could find. The bike has a high modulus carbon fiber Monocoque frame/fork, Shimano 105 shifters/brake levers, FSA carbon-wrap crankset, Ritchey com bar and more. The sale ends Feb. 28.

If that's too much bike for too much money, Walmart has the GMC men's Denali 700C 26" Road Bicycle in yellow/black for $159. Shipping is $2.97, or it can be picked up for free at the store. The bike has a 21-speed Shimano drive train, aluminum frame, side pull caliper brakes, road-race style drop handlebars, Vitesse seat and more.

Luggage
Instead of celebrating the start of spring by staying local and riding your new bike, you could shake that cabin fever by taking a trip. The Travelers Club Euro Value II 3-Piece Set in black or red is $29.95 from ShoeBuy.com and coupon code "SAVE10" cuts it to $19.95. Shipping is free. It's the lowest total price we could find by $16. The set includes a 20-inch rolling carry-on bag, 14-inch boarding tote bag and 10-inch travel kit.

Picnic Table
Walmart sells the Stansport Portable Picnic Table, model no. 615, for $48.95. Shipping is 97 cents or free in-store. It's the lowest price we could find by $4. The picnic table is portable, which is why we think it's a good thing to have for spring and summer and has a 54-inch umbrella and anodized locking aluminum frame. It folds compactly for storage or transport.