Consumers in Brazil are relieved as prices cool down, despite the rising temperature. A survey carried out by FGV’s Brazilian Institute of Economics (IBRE) pointed out that the products and services most consumed in the summer recorded a 1.35% drop between January and December 2017.

The data is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI/FGV), calculated by FGV’s IBRE. According to the IPC Coordinator in charge of the survey, André Braz, the main highlights are fruits, which recorded the highest price drop, 15.59% cheaper on average. Airfares also dropped (9.56%), as well as skin care products (6.15%) and hotels, which dropped 4.21% in the same period.

Products in coastal cities tend to be more expensive. According to Braz, if you’re going to the beach, it is definitely worth bringing some of the low-priced items from home. “You don’t have to consume everything at the beach. Travelers can bring some items from home and buy the rest at the beach, where they consume what is harder to bring in quantity, such as drinks and ice cream. Snacks can be brought from home. It is safer and cheaper,” said the economist.

The items that recorded the highest increases include tours (6.47%), the traditional cup of coffee (6.53%), and fruit juice away from home (5.69%). Beers (2.28%) and soft drinks and water (1.39%) increased, but still below the inflation for the period, which was 3.23% (CPI/FGV).

Household appliances are slightly more expensive

For anyone who is still struggling with the heat at home, the good news is the slight increase in prices of fans and air circulators (0.68%), air conditioner (1.67%), and fridge and freezer (1.74%).

“These items lost to inflation. Those who planned to replace their air conditioners can find products with good prices. Cash discounts can make them even cheaper. Term purchases include interest (not always visible to consumers) and have no discounts. In this case, consumers have to be cautious”, said the researcher.