15 Timely Walmart Buys If You’ve Got Room in Your December Budget

Mid-December is the time when "nice to have" turns into "boy, am I glad I bought this." You're hosting more, and all you want is comfort and convenience without blowing your budget.

You can save money at Walmart with these 15 picks. While they aren't essentials, they're smart splurges that earn their keep this Christmas if you've got the wiggle room in your budget.

Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

Price: $20.89

Want to try something different this Christmas? Consider this USDA Grade A duck, which comes with a ready-to-heat orange sauce and no complicated prep, just like a restaurant meal.

It works, especially if you'll have a smaller, "just us" Christmas. It's also a better deal than buying directly from Maple Leaf for $29.99.

Price: $37.47

A gift pack is a thoughtful stocking stuffer. This holiday set pairs Olay's Super Serum body wash and lotion to give skin deep moisture in the dry December weather.

It pulls five out of five stars from 82% or over 2,300 reviewers who love its seasonal scent and call it "hydrating and luxurious."

Price: $29.98

December is about embracing winter. With this set, which includes a ribbed top and matching leggings, you have a warm base layer that doesn't feel bulky under top clothes when you prance outdoors.

While not designed for winter sports, it's a great buy for the price, given that thermal sets from outdoor brands like Hot Chillys start at over $100.

Price: $39.99

If your bathroom mat gets damp easily, consider this chenille-fiber bath rug. At 30 inches by 20 inches, it becomes a soft, absorbent landing pad outside the shower, trapping water and drying quickly.

Shoppers are impressed with its performance. "Thick, absorbent, and a nice sturdy backing" is reviewer Lola's summary.

Price: $24.99

These four cable-knit stockings come with name tags, so all your Christmas guests or loved ones get a coordinating stocking without you having to hunt for a matching design.

For the price, they're a no-brainer, since Target sells a single cable-knit stocking for $20.

Price: $10

December can be stressful, so this gift set shows how much you care. The three Epsom salt soaks are great for tired feet and sore muscles, while the follow-up lotion locks in moisture.

Shoppers love the price and quality: "It's a great product and makes a perfect gift (or treat for yourself!)," writes reviewer Happy Tester.

Price: $1

This three-ounce carton dresses classic Whoppers in Christmas packaging. The malted centers and milk-chocolate coating have the right nostalgic movie-theater flavor many of us grew up with.

You can grab several packs and pay less than you would at Walgreens for the same amount.

Price: $14.83

Adding to your storage containers in December makes sense, since you'll have plenty of leftovers to contend with. This 26-piece set includes assorted sizes with vented lids.

Satisfied reviewer Julie mentions that they are "my favorite food storage containers. The lids are very sturdy and I like the vent feature to get a good seal."

Price: $38.95

If you have the room, getting a pair of mid-calf boots is just what you need this season. The Tanleewa boots have a PU-leather upper, faux-fur lining, and anti-slip sole, keeping feet dry and warm in snow and slush.

They're a dupe of the Pajar Henta boots from Holt Renfrew, minus the $350 price tag.

Price: $6.96

This tin is a festive stocking stuffer candidate, containing an assortment of caramel, butter, and white cheddar popcorn. At 21 ounces, it's perfectly sized for a small group on movie night.

Reviewer Luella loves it: "These are the greatest, affordable gift ideas for neighbors."

Price: $13.08

If you're hosting this month, this bundle gives you six multipacks of non-scratch sponges, so you won't run out at the most crucial time. Their surface is safe for nonstick pans and delicate dishware.

Getting 24 sponges for less than $15 is a great deal, considering a single four-pack of Scotch-Brite sponges costs $4.59 at Target.

Price: $14.76

Hosting shouldn't mean prepping everything from scratch. With this 28-ounce tray of salami, pepperoni, cheese, and crackers, you can welcome drop-in guests without batting an eye.

Reviewer Chris gives us the run-down: "The salami and pepperoni are flavorful and have a nice, savory bite. The cheese is fresh, and the crackers add a satisfying crunch."

Price: $9.77

Not happy about your decor? Grab these honeycomb paper trees that fold out into 3D decorations. They're lightweight and festive for bookcases, end tables, or as part of a mantel piece.

Available in four festive colors, they're a better deal than Target's single paper tree at $5.95.

Price: $24.96

Chores aren't fun, but having a complete arsenal of cleaners for tile, tubs, sinks, and toilets makes them manageable. This bundle lets you do just that with The Pink Stuff cleaning paste, foaming spray, toilet powder, sponges, and cloths.

Shoppers agree that it's a "complete, powerful, and eco-friendly solution for every bathroom."

Price: $10.12

Available in five scents and colors, this adorable eight-ounce Christmas tree-shaped candle brings festive warmth to your space. Even after the candle is spent, you can reuse the holder as part of your seasonal decor.

Grab it as an affordable dupe of the $39.50 Silver Lidded candle from Pottery Barn.

None of these Walmart finds are must-haves. However, they're the kind of splurges that are worth it in December. As countless times before, Walmart does more than help you tackle high grocery costs. It offers you small comforts that fit seamlessly into your budget.

Keep an eye on Walmart's return window, too. Many December purchases qualify for extended holiday returns into late January, making them safer to buy.