Best Time to Buy Hot Tubs (2026 Guide)
Save up to 50% by timing your hot tub purchase right. Here's exactly when to buy.
Hot tub pricing can fluctuate by 30-50% throughout the year, depending on sales cycles, new model releases, and seasonal demand. Savvy shoppers can save thousands by buying during the right windows. In this guide, we'll reveal exactly when to buy a hot tub for maximum savings, with month-by-month analysis, recommended products, and pricing strategies. Whether you're looking for a budget inflatable or a luxury swim spa, you'll find actionable advice to get the best deal.
Executive Summary
The best time to buy a hot tub is during Labor Day sales (late August to early September) and Black Friday (November). Expect savings of 30-50% compared to peak prices in spring and early summer. If you can't wait, end-of-year clearance in December also offers solid discounts.
Why Timing Matters
Hot tub prices are heavily influenced by seasonality. Demand is highest in spring and fall when homeowners prepare for cooler weather, so prices rise accordingly. Retailers also refresh their lineups in early spring, leading to clearance on older models in late summer. By waiting for key sales events, you can save $1,000 to $3,000 on a mid-range hot tub. For example, a $5,000 hot tub commonly drops to $3,500 during Black Friday. Additionally, floor models and last-year's inventory can be deeply discounted.
Best Time to Buy: Labor Day and Black Friday
Expected Savings: 30-50%
Labor Day is a traditional clearance event for summer items, and many hot tub retailers offer 30-40% off floor models or last year's inventory. Black Friday is the biggest sale of the year, with many brands slashing prices 40-50% off MSRP. Both periods see heavy competition among online and brick-and-mortar stores, driving prices down. Additionally, manufacturers often introduce new models in early 2026, making late summer and fall the prime time for closeouts.
What to Expect:
- Deep discounts on previous year's models
- Free accessories bundles (covers, steps, chemicals)
- 0% financing offers for 12-36 months
- Floor model clearance (30-50% off)
- Free delivery and installation deals
- Price matching between major retailers
- Limited-time flash sales on popular brands
Alternative: January Clearance and Mid-Summer Sales
Retailers clear out remaining holiday inventory in January, especially floor models and discontinued colors. July offers Independence Day sales and Amazon Prime Day, where inflatable and plug-and-play hot tubs see deep discounts. These periods are ideal for shoppers who missed the fall sales.
Worst Time to Buy
The worst time to buy a hot tub is during the spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October, before Black Friday). During spring, demand surges as people prepare for summer, and new model year introductions keep prices firm. Early fall is also high demand as colder weather sets in. You'll pay near MSRP, often 50-70% more than during sale periods. Additionally, December 15-24 can be expensive for last-minute gifts.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
Recommended Products
1. Bestway Saluspa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub
The Bestway Saluspa Miami is an affordable, inflatable hot tub that seats up to 4 people. It heats to 104°F and features a covered pump and built-in hard water treatment system. Perfect for renters or first-time buyers, it's easy to set up and store. During Prime Day or Black Friday, prices often drop to $300 or less.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Prime Day (July) or Black Friday (November) for 25-40% off.
2. Intex PureSpa Inflatable Hot Tub
The Intex PureSpa Plus is a 6-person inflatable hot tub with 140 bubble jets and a saltwater system for easy maintenance. It includes a hard water treatment system and a cover. This is a step up from Bestway, offering more capacity and features. During sales, it drops under $350.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Black Friday for 30% off, making it $315.
3. Lifesmart LS100DX 78-jets 2-Person Hot Tub
The Lifesmart LS100DX is a 2-person plug-and-play hot tub with 78 jets, a LED light, and a waterfall feature. It heats to 104°F and runs on 110V, requiring no special wiring. This is an excellent entry-level hard-shell tub. During Labor Day or Black Friday, prices often drop to $1,999 or less.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Labor Day or Black Friday, save $500+.
4. Bullfrog Spas A5L 5-Person Hot Tub
The Bullfrog Spas A5L is a 5-person hot tub with Bullfrog's exclusive JetPak system, allowing you to customize jet placement and intensity. It features LED lighting, a premium sound system option, and energy-efficient insulation. This is a high-end luxury tub. Sales events can bring savings of 20-30%.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Black Friday or end-of-year clearance for 25% off.
5. Master Spas LSX200 8-Person Hot Tub
The Master Spas LSX200 is an 8-person hot tub with a unique swim current system (optional). It has 120 jets, LED lighting, and a waterfall. This tub is great for families or fitness enthusiasts. During fall sales, expect prices around $6,999.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Labor Day or Black Friday for 20-30% off.
6. Coleman Saluspa Inflatable Hot Tub
The Coleman Saluspa is a 4-person inflatable hot tub with 60 jets and a durable laminated PVC construction. It heats quickly and includes a cover. It's a great balance of price and durability. During sales, it often drops to $350.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Prime Day for 25% off.
7. AquaRest DaySpa 6-Person Hot Tub
The AquaRest DaySpa is a 6-person plug-and-play hot tub with 94 jets, LED lighting, and a waterfall. It runs on 110V and fits easily in a patio. This is a mid-range option with great features. Labor Day sales often bring it under $2,500.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Labor Day for 30% off, often $2,239.
8. Hot Spring Revel 5-Person Hot Tub
The Hot Spring Revel is a 5-person hot tub with 38 jets, Moto-Massage DX jets, and a 10-year warranty. It features a high-efficiency circulation pump and insulation. This is a premium spa from a trusted manufacturer. Black Friday deals can save $1,500.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Black Friday for 20% off.
9. Intex PureSpa Greywood Inflatable Hot Tub
The Intex PureSpa Greywood is a 4-person inflatable hot tub with a wood-look exterior, 140 bubble jets, and a saltwater system. It includes a cover and treatment system. This is a stylish upgrade from standard inflatables. On Prime Day, it can be $399.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Prime Day for 27% off.
10. American Spas 78-Jet 5-Person Hot Tub
The American Spas 78-jet hot tub seats 5 people and includes 78 jets, a 220V heater, LED lighting, and a waterfall. It's a solid mid-range option for those with existing 220V wiring. During fall clearance, prices drop to $3,199.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Labor Day or Black Friday for 20% off.
11. Essential Spa 6-Person Inflatable Hot Tub
The Essential Spa 6-person inflatable hot tub offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy hydrotherapy. It heats to 104°F and has 120 bubble jets. While not the most durable, it's perfect for occasional use. During sales, it can be as low as $250.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Prime Day for 30% off.
12. Coast Spas 6-Person Premium Hot Tub
The Coast Spas 6-person hot tub features 80 jets, including pulsating and rotating jets, a Bluetooth sound system, and LED lighting. It's built with high-density insulation for cold climates. This is a top-of-the-line model. Black Friday discounts can knock off $2,000.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Black Friday for 25% off.
Pricing Strategies
Wait for Labor Day/Black Friday
- Research models now. 2. Set price alerts on CamelCamelCamel for specific models. 3. Sign up for retailer newsletters. 4. Purchase during the sale window.
Buy Display/Floor Models
- Visit local hot tub showrooms. 2. Ask about floor model discounts. 3. Inspect for damage. 4. Negotiate extra accessories.
Off-Season Purchase in July
- Identify inflatable models. 2. Compare Prime Day deals. 3. Use price tracking tools. 4. Buy during the event.
End-of-Year Clearance in December
- Check Amazon and local stores. 2. Look for 'clearance' labels. 3. Buy before year-end.
Negotiate with Local Dealers
- Visit multiple dealers. 2. Get quotes. 3. Mention competitor prices. 4. Ask for 'out the door' price.
Buy Last Year's Model
- Identify new model release dates. 2. Search for [model year-1] online. 3. Compare prices. 4. Buy from authorized dealers.
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Bottom Line
For maximum savings on a hot tub, target Labor Day or Black Friday. If you can't wait, July sales on inflatables or end-of-year clearance are good alternatives. Always compare prices and negotiate. Remember that portable tubs offer great value for less money. Plan ahead, track prices, and don't rush into a purchase during peak season. With patience, you can save 30-50%.
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Hot Tubs