4 Best Holiday Items Retirees Should Buy at Costco After Christmas

Fang Zheng / iStock.com

Commitment to Our Readers

GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.

20 Years
Helping You Live Richer

Reviewed
by Experts

Trusted by
Millions of Readers

After Christmas is one of the best times of the year for retirees to stretch their budgets at Costco. Stores deeply discount leftover holiday decor, gifts, apparel and household staples, often by 30% to 70%, making it the perfect moment to stock up for next year or refresh your home for less.

Whether you’re preparing for future family gatherings, looking for practical items to enjoy in retirement, or simply love a great deal, the post-holiday markdowns at Costco are worth a stop. Below are some of the best holiday items retirees should consider picking up after Christmas, with each offering long-term value if you’re looking to avoid overspending.

1. Clothing and Sweaters: Winter Apparel Markdowns

• Fyre patterned cardigan price: $21.99
• Quarter-zip sweater price: $17.99

As stores look ahead to spring, winter-themed clothing like heavy sweaters, holiday sweatshirts, cold-weather pajamas and seasonal loungewear gets slashed in price. This post-holiday discount period can be a great opportunity for retirees to refresh their wardrobes for next winter or pick up comfortable, warm pieces for the coming months.

The Frye patterned cardigan is a versatile, cozy addition to anyone’s winter wardrobe, especially for retirees looking for comfort and warmth without overspending. Meanwhile, the Banana Republic quarter-zip sweater is a great option for men that works well as a standalone layer or under a jacket for colder winter days.

2. Holiday Gift Wrap Set

• Price: $29.97

Gift wrap is one of the most practical things to stock up on during the post-Christmas season. Costco’s large wrapping paper rolls, tags and ribbon sets last for years and cost far less once holiday merchandise goes on clearance. Retirees who enjoy giving gifts to children, grandchildren, church groups or community organizations can get ahead of next year’s preparations without scrambling or paying premium prices next December.

3. Fresh Cranberry Splash Lighted LED Wreath

• Price: $54.99

A high-quality wreath is an easy way to elevate your home during the holidays, and Costco’s wreaths are known for durability and realistic design. After Christmas, these wreaths are usually heavily discounted, giving retirees a chance to replace older decor without paying full price. 

Since they’re pre-lit and easy to store, they also reduce setup time and the hassle of untangling lights, making it a win for anyone who wants holiday decor that feels effortless.

4. HeatTrak Heated Snow & Ice Melting Mats Stair Kit

• Price: $179.99

As the season winds down and weather turns colder, outdoor mats (especially heated snow- and ice-melting mats) become a smart purchase for retirees. The HeatTrak Heated Snow & Ice Melting Mats Stair Kit offers an easy, low-maintenance solution to winter hazards. You simply plug the mat into a standard electrical outlet and it keeps stairs, walkways or entry areas clear of snow and ice, eliminating the need for shoveling, salt or deicer.

These mats help with increased safety and convenience during icy winter months, less physical strain from snow removal and more peace of mind when entering or exiting the house.

Disclaimer: Prices and availability accurate as of Dec. 20, 2025 and subject to change. All imagery sourced from Costco.com.

Share This Article: