11 Costco Items Homeowners Should Stock Up On Before Winter Hits

The first day of winter officially arrives on Dec. 21; but, depending where you live in the United States, the season might have arrived early. As homeowners start weatherproofing their homes, it’s a good idea to look at what can be bought in bulk or as a one-off purchase that saves money over time, that they’ll use this winter and many seasons to come.

From bib snow pants to snow shovels and pantry staples, GOBankingRates explored Costco’s winter offerings for homeowners and selected 11 must-buys. Stock up on these winter staples before they’re sold out.

• Price: $349.99

If you live in a region where snowfalls tend to be on the heavy side, this Greenworks 80V 12″ snow shovel will be your new best friend. 

This snow shovel is equipped to clear driveways of up to two to four cars and can throw snow up to 25 feet. A 4Ah battery and rapid charger is included with your purchase. Additional nice-to-have features include an LED light, directional vane control and an exo-flex shoulder strap for ease in carrying and overall movement.

• Price range: $124.99 to $129.99

Fair warning to readers as both of our Costco recommendations for snow boots cost more than $100 each. Sticker shock aside, homeowners will be grateful they spent their money on these well-made boots as they’re worth the investment.

Our recommendation for men’s snow boots are the Sorel Caribou boots. These boots are priced at $129.99 a pair and are waterproof and cold rated to minus-40°F. For women, we pick the tall Hunter intrepid snow boots. These boots are also waterproof and priced at $124.99.

Each pair of snow boots is available to buy online, and they come in a wide range of men’s and women’s sizes. Just don’t wait too long to buy. These boots are available only while supplies last.

• Prices start at: $38.99

The nice part about investing in a pair of high-quality bib snow pants is that homeowners can use them for snow removal and recreationally to wear while skiing or enjoying a wide variety of snow day activities. 

If you’re not sure which brand to stock up on, try the Gerry bib snow pants. The men’s bib snow pants are available for $39.99 and feature adjustable suspenders, waist tabs and an active fit. Ladies’ bib snow pants cost $38.99 and are made with water-resistant fabric with adjustable suspenders. Both pants can be purchased by Costco members online.

• Price: $27.99

It’s not your imagination: the FrostBlocker ice scraper combo pack does have a smile design. Scrape the snow and ice off your car windows with ease using the two Scrape Buddies. When you’re done, store each buddy into its neoprene sleeve. 

Two Scrape Babies are included with attached keychains to add to your set of car and/or house keys. In the event you don’t have the bigger Scrape Buddies handy, the Scrape Baby can help you clear off frost and ice in a pinch. This is available online only for Costco members.

• Price: $19.99

Always keep some fleece blankets handy during the winter season. Now through Dec. 21, Costco members receive $5 off Life Comfort Sherpa fleece blankets. Shop blue, gray and green colors while supplies last.

• Price: $29.99

Keep your home clean from melting snow and slush with this set of Eurow microfiber floor mats. 

This online-only buy includes two mats that work to quickly absorb water, lift and trap dirt and reduce unwanted odors. Add them to your home’s entry and exit doors and anywhere else needed.

• Price: $11.99

Stock up on Quaker oatmeal for a comforting, filling breakfast for the whole family. Each container includes two 5-pound bags of oatmeal that make more than 110 servings.

• Price: $10.69

Why is it a good idea to stock up on chicken broth ahead of winter? 

Pantry prep YouTuber Leisa Sutton recommends making this purchase since it’s a good base for soups. Sutton said it’s just as satisfying to drink broth on its own to take away from “fake boredom hunger” — i.e., eating because you’re bored.

• Price: $7.99

Ahead of cold winter months, Sutton recommends buying “all things tomato” like tomato paste, pasta sauce, salsa and diced tomatoes. 

The reason is that tomatoes are a staple for making many quick and easy meals, like casseroles and stews, that are filling and loaded with Vitamin C.

• Price: $15.99

Keep the comfort meal of Campbell’s chicken noodle soup stocked in your pantry. This eight-count bulk buy comes out to paying about $2 per can on soup filled with noodles, carrots and celery.

• Price: $9.99

Swiss Miss hot cocoa is a winter must for homeowners. Rather than trek out to a coffee shop for hot chocolate, you can whip up a few mugs at home at a fraction of the cost. 

Each box includes 50 hot cocoa mixes and can be made in just minutes using hot water or milk. Take your cocoa to the next level in comfort by adding marshmallows or whipped cream on top.

Editor’s note: Prices and availability are accurate as of Dec. 5, 2024, and are subject to change.