13 Clever Walmart Buys if You've Got Wiggle Room in Your October Budget

October is that in-between month when you can refresh your home, stock up for the festive season, and enjoy quiet time with family and friends, or on your own.

If you've got a bit of extra room in your budget this month, you can save money at Walmart while enjoying a few tempting "wants" as well as useful buys that make your life a little easier.

Here are 13 Walmart deals that are worth a spot in your cart this October.

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

Price: $4.70 (on sale from $11.70)

Hosting game day? These football-themed paper plates will make you look like a thoughtful and fun host. They make cleanup easy and are sturdy enough for chili and wings. On sale, they're an unmissable bargain.

Price: $34.97

Do you want to wow trick-or-treaters this Halloween? This fog machine can turn your decor into a full-on haunted experience. It comes with a remote and can double as a party prop throughout the year. It's also incredibly affordable, since Target sells a fog machine for over $500.

Price: $177.00 (on sale from $249.00)

If you're worried about grocery prices, this chest freezer can save you money in the long run. It doesn't take a lot of space, but it offers reliable storage.

Paying less than $200 for a 5.0 cubic-foot freezer is a no-brainer, especially when 3.5 cubic-foot models go for $369.99 (on sale) at Target.

Price: $9.94

Nothing like a pumpkin scent for autumn. With this limited-edition Pumpkin Roll air freshener, you indulge your senses and well-being for under $10.

While the price is just okay, Walmart shoppers praise this lovely scent that "smells amazing for fall."

Price: $81.00

Now, this is a splurge, but do hear us out. This set offers salon-quality hair care at home, strengthening color-treated and aging hair, and letting you skip a salon visit. Besides, a twenty-ounce set costs $41.90 at Ulta, while Walmart sells three times that amount for $81.

Price: $47.00 (on sale from $189.00)

A little sparkle never hurt, especially when priced modestly. These two-carat moissanite studs shine brighter than diamonds for a fraction of the price.

Reviewers rave that they're "wonderful Christmas gifts," so if you don't want to splurge for yourself, save them as a festive present for someone else.

Price: $29.95

Making risotto from scratch is hard work, so why not indulge in this simplified Italian comfort food? Shoppers rave online about how easy and top-quality this Alessi option is.

The six eight-ounce packs of Arborio rice cook to creamy perfection, turning into a restaurant-quality dish. A 6.5-ounce bag sells for $9.37 on Amazon or $115.20 for the same amount.

Price: $12.32

These Applegate chicken bites are the "best tasting gluten-free option for chicken nuggets," as reviewer Kim puts it. They are quick, easy, and made with humanely raised chicken. Grab them for protein-packed lunches when you don't feel like cooking from scratch on a lazy, cold fall evening.

Price: $3.17

Enjoying authentic Mexican food is one way to savor slow living in October. This fresh, crumbly, and mild queso fresco can upgrade your salads, soups, and tacos.

Besides the affordable price, shoppers can't get enough of this high-quality cheese's versatility: "Added to tostadas, salads, beans, pasta, melting on delicious quesadillas," writes reviewer Kim.

Price: $63.99 (on sale from $119.99)

One way to effortlessly change the mood of your room is by adding an elegant set of table lamps on your nightstands. Take advantage of this Walmart sale and grab two rustic, USB-equipped lamps that will bring warmth to your space with their three brightness levels.

Price: $84.99 (on sale from $299.00)

Buying a new mirror can be a significant investment, but not today. Add light and elegance to your home with its vintage-inspired gold silhouette, which makes it look like a boutique find.

Reviewers agree: "Beautiful mirror at an incredible price. Huge and looks way more expensive than it was," writes Lisa.

Price: $139.29 (on sale from $298.99)

If you have some wiggle room in your budget, why not upgrade your breakfast nook? This five-piece set features a warm wood top and sturdy yet minimalist metal frame.

It's also versatile, especially for small spaces. "Fits snugly against my countertop, extending usable counterspace, doubles as a bar, and triples as a dining room table," explains reviewer Virginia.

Price: $49.99

Have you always wanted an inflatable for Halloween? This 5.7-foot light-up skeleton puppy will make your yard look fun and become the cutest spooky addition to your Halloween decor.

Walmart's fall deals can blur the line between what you want and what you need, and that's okay if your budget allows for it.

When you shop intentionally, you pick great deals that fit your lifestyle and save money on groceries, essentials, and even splurges. Another money-saving tip: make a list of needed upgrades around your house and tackle them each month, depending on your "leftover" budget.