Over the past several years, Apple iPods have become “must-have” items. Almost everyone has an iPod these days and they are now far more popular than competing MP3 players and other portable music players. Whether people are attracted to their convenience or ease of use, there is no denying that the Apple iPod has transformed the portable music industry and made listening to music away from home a lot more enjoyable.
Because of the popularity of iPods, iPod accessories are often on Christmas lists and otherwise make great gifts. Whether someone has had their iPod for a while or is receiving one for Christmas, there are a number of accessories that can make their experience more enjoyable. Everyone should have a case for their iPod at a minimum, although there are many other accessories-such as radios with iPod interfaces-that are also popular.
When they need to purchase iPod accessories, many people go immediately to the Apple store. Unfortunately, the prices at the Apple store tend to be quite expensive and it is pretty much impossible to find bargains on iPod accessories there. If your goal is finding bargains on iPod accessories-whether for Christmas or because you just want to save some money-you are better off looking elsewhere. Below are five great places for finding Christmas bargains on iPod accessories:
Kohl’s – The department store Kohl’s is one of my favorite places to find bargains of all types, so it is no surprise that I recommend them for finding bargains on iPod accessories. At first glance, one probably would overlook Kohl’s because it doesn’t carry much by way of electronics, but it does occasionally have good deals on iPod accessories. Like most merchandise at Kohl’s, iPod accessories regularly go on sale (sometimes at substantial discounts). Watching the Kohl’s ads is a great way to find Christmas bargains on iPod accessories. Most often, you can save even more if you sign up for a Kohl’s charge card. If you don’t want to travel out to the store, you can shop online.
Target – Like Kohl’s, Target is a store that occasionally offers good sale prices on iPod accessories. You can find iPod accessory bargains for Christmas by watching the sales flyers each week. Even if you don’t watch the sales flyers, Target’s prices on many popular iPod accessories are often lower than competing stores. I have seen good prices on a wide variety of iPod accessories including cases, docking stations, car adapters, cables, and more.
T.J. Maxx – Another example of stepping a bit outside the box to find Christmas bargains on iPod accessories is looking at the discount store T.J. Maxx. While primarily known for deep discounts on clothing, T.J. Maxx also carries a small selection of accessories for the Apple iPod. At the store in my hometown, I have found great prices on iPod accessories such as carrying cases, headphones, and docking stations. I would certainly check T.J. Maxx if you have one in your area. There is a handy store locator on their website at TJMaxx.com.
EBay – The online retailer EBay is also a great place to look for finding bargains on iPod accessories, especially if you don’t want to leave the comfort of your home. Like most product categories, EBay has a wide selection of iPod accessories at any given time from a number of different sellers. You can usually find deals on both new and used products. For best results, search for the specific accessory you are looking for-for example, search for “iPod cases” if you are looking for an iPod case.
NewEgg.com – Another great online source for finding Christmas bargains on iPod accessories is the computer retailer NewEgg.com. I have been buying computer parts from NewEgg.com for years-they offer great prices and have exceptional service. Their great prices and selection also applies for iPod accessories. NewEgg.com carries a full range of iPod accessories including armbands, cases, FM transmitters, radios, docks, and more. If you want to find bargains on iPod accessories online, be sure to check NewEgg.com.