If you're retired, shopping smart is all about finding dependable, practical items that make life easier while keeping spending in check. February is a particularly good time to stock up because winter-clearance deals often overlap with seasonal transitions and everyday essentials at Walmart.
Let's take a look at 15 items retirees can't miss if they want to plan for spring, improve daily routines, and save money at Walmart with the best value, usefulness, and peace of mind.
Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Betty Crocker Au Gratin Potatoes
Price: $2.98
This twin-pack of boxed potatoes is a dependable pantry staple for retirees who want easy meals without extra prep. With eight ounces on hand, it's easy to enjoy leftovers and avoid frequent grocery trips in cold weather.
You're also saving $0.60 per count as compared with stocking up at Target.
Great Value Frozen Whole Berry Medley
Price: $3.52
Frozen berries last longer than fresh fruit and work in everything from smoothies to parfait toppings. This whole-berry 16-ounce blend also provides plenty of vitamins during one of the coldest months of the year.
Stocking up at Walmart saves you $0.41 per pound when compared with buying Good & Gather berries at Target.
Metamucil Fiber Supplement
Price: $36.72
Buying 180 servings of this fiber supplement in February spells months of peace of mind. The sugar-free formula is perfect for retirees who avoid added sugar.
Shoppers love the product's subtle orange flavor and effectiveness: "I have used many over-the-counter products, and this one is my favorite," explains reviewer April.
Great Value Apple Cider Vinegar
Price: $2.48
Apple cider vinegar is a multipurpose item, useful in cooking, dressings, and as an ally against the colds and flu that run rampant in February. This 32-fluid-ounce bottle offers long-term value without taking up too much storage space.
The value shines when compared with a 16-fluid-ounce bottle of Bragg vinegar, which costs $4.99 at Target.
Vtopmart Glass Food Storage Containers
Price: $30.99
If you need reusable, durable storage for leftovers and meal prep this winter, look no further than these seven glass containers. They have locking lids, making it easier to keep the fridge organized.
Better still, they're the same price as Target's five Ello glass storage containers.
Great Value Diced Tomatoes
Price: $0.96
February is comfort-food heaven, and nothing beats canned tomatoes as an affordable base for soups, sauces, and casseroles. These 14.5-ounce cans are easy to store and convenient if you don't want to rely on fresh produce for every recipe.
They're also "a great choice for your recipes" and "better than more expensive brands," according to buyers.
Barilla Classic Elbow Pasta
Price: $1.84
Homemade mac-and-cheese for dinner? Yes, please. Elbow pasta is a practical pantry item you can keep on hand for everything from simple meals to elaborate casseroles this February.
Since it's cheaper per ounce than Target's offering, stock up on a few 16-ounce boxes at Walmart. The price doesn't get any better.
Scott 1000 Toilet Paper
Price: $19.98
Bulk household essentials like toilet paper are always a smart purchase, especially for retirees who want to minimize in-person shopping in inclement winter weather. Scott 1000 rolls last, and buying 24 for less than $20 is a steal.
Get them at Walmart, and you won't have to pay Target's over $23 price for the same count.
Pompeian Smooth Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Price: $7.74
With 16 fluid ounces of extra-virgin olive oil, you can cook, sauté, and make healthy salad dressings just in time for spring. The Pompeian oil is mild, versatile, and "a must for all households," as shoppers attest.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
EOS Shea Better Body Lotion
Price: $9.97
Dry indoor air can be tough on skin, making a shea body lotion useful in February. Besides, this daily-use product comes in a long-lasting 16-fluid-ounce bottle.
Buying it at Walmart saves you one dollar and the extra trip to Walgreens.
Great Value Cottage Cheese
Price: $2.87
The small curd texture of this cottage cheese makes it easy to pair with fruit, toast, or savory snacks. If you enjoy a simple, protein-rich staple, you'll find the 24-ounce tub the perfect addition to your fridge this February.
Buy it before the end of this month to save the extra $0.02 per ounce you'd be paying at Target.
Sterilite Clear Storage Drawers
Price: $16.42
Decluttering this month? Organization tools like this three-drawer cart can make it easier. It's useful for paperwork, craft supplies, or medications in one accessible spot.
"The bonus is the wheels," writes reviewer Barbara, who also likes being able to see what each drawer contains without opening it.
Healthy Choice Honey Glazed Turkey & Potatoes
Price: $2.77
If you've been cooking more from scratch after the holidays, by late February, it may feel like a chore. Grab this single-serve frozen product for a quick, convenient warm meal you can enjoy without much cleanup.
Buying multiples? Don't get them at Target, where they cost $0.22 more per pack.
Nature Valley Protein Granola
Price: $4.68
A healthy breakfast helps conserve energy during cold February days, and granola is tasty whether paired with yogurt, milk, or fruit.
The resealable 11-ounce bag keeps it fresh, although shoppers don't expect it to last. "Great taste, satisfying, and surprisingly filling. Are these not meant to be eaten by the handful?" is reviewer Michael's rhetorical question.
TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse
Price: $15.34
Oral care is paramount for retirees, and this two-pack of alcohol-free oral rinse is worth stocking up on this winter, especially for the price.
A single bottle of icy mint rinse costs $9.79 at Walgreens, or $4.24 more for the same amount.
Bottom line
A little planning goes a long way when you shop on a fixed income. By focusing on practical buys that support comfort and everyday needs, retirees can make the most of Walmart's late-winter selection before February ends.
To save on groceries and essentials and reduce repeat trips, check Walmart's website for online-only discounts, even if you plan to shop in-store. Many locations will price-match Walmart.com, unlocking extra savings.
Earn Easy Cash Rewards at Amazon.com
on Chase's secure website Intro Offer
Get a $150 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members
Annual Fee $0 Why we like it
If you're a loyal Amazon Prime member and you love getting cash back rewards on your purchases, the Prime Visa is a fantastic option. You can earn big rewards with this card, and it comes with some other valuable perks as well.
With the Prime Visa card, you get a $150 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members. Plus, cardmembers earn a whopping
unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership, unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare), and unlimited 1% on all other purchases
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The Prime Visa also comes with some great travel protections that you rarely see with a no-annual-fee card. It offers lost luggage reimbursement, baggage delay insurance, travel accident insurance, and travel and emergency assistance.
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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