Warehouse stores like BJ’s can get expensive when you’re buying in bulk, but that can also work to your advantage if you’re trying to save money.
As a savvy senior shopper, you can take advantage of membership stores to help stretch your retirement income while picking up items that are perfect for retirees, from food to home goods and more.
Here are some can’t-miss things you should add to your shopping lists on your next trip to BJ’s.
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Nuts
Nuts are a great source of protein, vitamins, and fiber, which can be important as you get older.
The selection at BJ’s includes a wide variety of options, including mixed nuts or specific choices that come in both salted and unsalted options, depending on your dietary needs.
Ready-to-eat meals
It can be difficult to make dinner when you’re retired and not making full family meals like you used to.
Consider some ready-to-eat options at BJ’s, like entrees, salads, and wraps that are perfect for one or two people without much preparation.
Baking supplies
Retirees have more time to pursue other interests like baking, so make sure you have the right ingredients in your pantry when inspiration hits.
You can get flour, sugar, and baking staples at an affordable price to keep on hand for cakes, cookies, and more.
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.
Over-the-counter medication
You may start to get more ailments as you age, like heartburn or minor aches and pains.
So stock up your medicine cabinet with antacid tablets, ibuprofen, probiotics, and other over-the-counter medication to make your day a little easier.
Toilet paper
A bulk-sized version of toilet paper is great to grab, so you’re always stocked up whenever you need a roll.
However, it’s a good idea to consider how much space you have to store items like paper products before you buy them in bulk in case you downsize after you retire.
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Coffee
Now that you’re retired, you probably have more time to enjoy a good cup of coffee in the morning instead of rushing to the office and grabbing a cup from a local cafe.
BJ’s offers a variety of options, including ground coffee and K-cups, depending on how you like to make your coffee or what type of machine you have.
Ground beef
Fresh meats can get pricey, but you can save some money by picking up meat at BJ’s.
Buying ground beef in bulk can mean big savings if you break it up into servings when you get home and freeze it so you always have the right amount when you need it.
Cleaning supplies
More time at home means you have more time to clean all those nooks and crannies you may have missed while working.
Grab some cleaning supplies and stock up so you have what you need on hand to clean regularly without worrying about the extra costs.
Tires
You may be surprised to learn that BJ’s has a tire center, but you’ll be happy to know it’s there when you need it.
With national brands like Goodyear and Michelin, you can definitely save money on a new set of tires for your vehicle at BJ’s.
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Seasonal items
Holidays can get expensive when you’re trying to buy extra wrapping paper or Halloween decorations.
BJ’s has affordable seasonal items to decorate your home or celebrate with your family, and they may be less expensive than other retailers.
Storage bins
If your goal is to sort through things in your home now that you have more time to organize, you’re in luck.
Check out BJ’s for storage bins that can help you save space and organize your items as you declutter and clean your house.
Frozen vegetables
Vegetables are a must for healthy eating, but it may be daunting to buy fresh produce in bulk only for it to go bad before you can eat all of it.
Instead, get frozen vegetables that you can store and only have to use as much or as little as you need without the rest going to waste.
Furniture
If you’re downsizing or moving to a city for retirement, new furniture may be on your list.
BJ’s has plenty of choices to help you furnish your new place without busting your budget. Check out new pieces for your kitchen, living room, and even bedroom.
Oatmeal
Ditching your morning commute during retirement means you have more time to enjoy a quiet breakfast.
So grab some oatmeal, which is healthy for you and can also be a healthy and filling way to start the day.
Sports equipment
Starting a new sport when you retire can be expensive, but BJ’s has the equipment to get you started without busting your wallet.
If you’ve wanted to try pickleball, grab a racket set at BJ’s or pick up a home putting green to improve your skills for the golf course.
Bottom line
If you want to avoid wasting money on a fixed income, BJ’s can help you save and keep you on track.
It’s also a good idea to shop with a budget to prevent overspending or buying unnecessary items, which can be tempting with the wide selection at BJ’s.
Lucrative, Flat-Rate Cash Rewards
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Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Current Offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Benefits
- Low spend threshold for its welcome offer — $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
- Cell phone protection benefit (subject to a $25 deductible)
- Can redeem rewards at an ATM for literal cash
Drawbacks
- Foreign transaction fee of 3%
- No bonus categories
- Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
- Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
- 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
- $0 annual fee.
- No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
- Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
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