Really depends on the area as to when sales happen. Most of the major retailers (BassPro Shops, Cabelas, REI, Campmor) have continous sales on various items. In Oklahoma for example, BassPro always has a huge sale around the start of Summer on coolers, family tents..that kind of stuff. I have generally adapted the principle that if it's quality and the product I want...I just get it. Yeah, there can be buyers remorse if three days later you see it goes on sale, but if she's back from the trip...you wouldn't be able to take advantage of it anyway.

Good luck.