Fall is in full swing, and winter is right around the corner. That means you need to stock up for both seasons. But shopping isn't always easy when you're living on a tight budget.
While retirement has given you more time for yourself, it may have changed your spending habits. Whether you have a fixed income or just want to score the best bargains possible, we've got you covered with the top ways to save money at Costco this month.
Get ready to fill your cart with these affordable autumn items.
Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.
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Kirkland Signature Shepherd's Pie
Price: $4.29 per pound
Costco's fan favorite oversized, overstuffed shepherd's pie has finally returned to the prepared deli section. And if you're looking for an easy meal option, this bulk buy bargain is a major win.
Don't worry about eating this in one sitting. Redditor arkmtech called it "Mighty tasty!" and noted, "I tend to freeze half (before baking) and have the other half for two days' worth of dinners."
32 Degrees Heat Heated Vest
Price: $59.99
Going to a football game, your grandkids' soccer tournament, fall festival, or other outdoor event? You need to nab this rechargeable heated vest. Features you'll appreciate include three heat settings, four heating zones, and a cozy fleece lining.
Even though almost $60 may seem like a lot, a similar item from ActionHeat costs $119.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods.
Kirkland Signature Nitrile Gloves
Price: $18.99
Use these nitrile gloves to clean your home, craft, tackle messy home improvement projects, care for someone who is sick, or just keep germs at bay. You'll get 400 gloves for less than $19. CVS sells a smaller 120-count for over $10 more ($29.79).
Smash Foods Jam-Packed Protein Bites
Price: $19.99
Looking for a tasty way to add more protein to your diet? These sweet snacks are quick, convenient, and tasty. Toss a bag into your travel tote to take on an autumn getaway or indulge in these "healthier" treats after your morning workout.
The 18-count box of individually wrapped packs includes nine Sunflower Butter and Strawberry and nine Cashew Butter and Blueberry flavors.
3M Command Hooks
Price: $14.99
Decorating for the season? Don't ruin your walls with permanent hardware. These hooks hold up to three pounds, making them perfect for everything from pine wreaths to heavy winter coats.
How much can you save at Costco? Compare this $14.99 pack of 16 hooks and 20 strips to $9.93 for eight Command hooks and 12 strips at The Home Depot.
Nature's Way Sambucus Elderberry Immune Gummies
Price: $22.49
Cold and flu season is here. Support your immune system with these yummy gummies. The superfood blend contains 3,200 mg of elderberries, zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin D3.
At $22.49 for 120, this deal is a steal. You'll pay $20.99 for half the quantity (a 60-count bottle) on the brand's website.
Kirkland Signature Gallon Plus Freezer Bags
Price: $15.99
Costco's bulk buys don't always make financial sense for empty nesters. But if you have these generic gallon-plus freezer bags, you can divide oversized items into manageable portions. The double-zipper seal top 1.2-gallon BPA-free freezer bags are strong, easy to use, and affordable.
Starbucks Hot Cocoa
Price: $14.79
Indulge in the rich, creamy taste of Starbucks hot chocolate on a chilly fall day. Pass on pricey barista-blended cocoa and pick up this 30-ounce (30 servings) canister of brand-name mix for $14.79. For reference, a single grande hot chocolate from a Starbucks cafe costs $4.45.
Kirkland Signature Meatload with Yukon Gold Potatoes
Price: $4.79 per pound
Whip up a hearty autumn feast without breaking the bank on expensive ingredients. This oven-ready item features fresh ground beef, a tangy glaze, fluffy Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, and plenty of creamy butter. Just remove the lid, cover with foil, and heat this mouthwatering meal for 60 to 70 minutes at 375 degrees.
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Kirkland Signature Golf Gloves
Price: $22.99
Retirement means more time for leisure activities. And if you're a golfer, this deal is a hole in one. The premium Cabretta leather gloves have an adjustable Velcro tab closure and come in sizes small through extra-large.
Save on this store-brand bulk buy and get four for one low price ($22.99). Dick's Sporting Goods sells a single Callaway X-Tech glove for $17.99.
Kirkland Signature AAA Batteries
Price: $15.99
You need new AAAs for your TV remote, flashlight, smoke detector, and other devices in your home. Instead of wasting cash on brand names, nab this generic 48-pack for under $16. The same quantity of Energizers costs $29.99.
3M Filtrete Air Filters MPR 2,500
Price: $44.99
Get a jump on the winter heating season and keep your home's indoor air clear. This four-pack of MERV 14 high-performance filters captures larger particles like dust, pet fur, lint, and pollen as well as smaller microparticles (smoke, bacteria, dander).
First Alert 2-In-1 Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Price: $69.99
Protect your family with this battery-operated smoke and carbon monoxide detector. For $69.99, you'll get two of the voice-alert monitors. And don't worry about changing batteries any time soon. This one will last for 10 years.
Singer Heavy Duty Sewing Machine 64S
Price: $179.99
Whether you need a new hobby or want to save money on potentially pricey alterations, this heavy-duty sewing machine is worth the cost. A powerful motor and adjustable presser foot pressure make it easy to sew different weights of fabric, create decorative stitches, and more.
Get major savings on this Costco buy. We found the same item at Target for $100 more.
Designer Fragrances
Price: $59.99
Forget about the fine fragrance counter at your local department store. Now you can nab scents from the top designers for less. Brands vary by location, but we found perfumes from fan favorites like Chloe, Ralph Lauren, Versace, and Estee Lauder.
Bottom line
Living on a budget shouldn't limit your shopping power. With the right strategy, you can score deals on the best brand names, tasty treats, easy-prep meals, and more this October.
If you're looking for more ways to save money on groceries at Costco, check your local club's in-store specials. You might find bulk-buy bargains to stock your pantry and fill your freezer for the next few months.
Benefits Card Details on Wells Fargo’s secure website Intro Offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Annual Fee $0 Why we like it
If you love earning cash rewards but prefer to avoid the hassle of tracking spending categories, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card could be a good option for you. Card members can earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
This card also offers a 0% intro APR on qualifying balance transfers and purchases for 12 months from account opening, then 18.99%, 24.99%, or 28.99% Variable. Those looking for straightforward rewards and an introductory APR will likely find value in this card.
FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment.
Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
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