5 Best Items to Stock Up on in January to Save Money and Build a Stockpile
If you’re new to stockpiling, January is one of the best months to start. Stockpiling isn’t just for extreme couponers or people with tons of space—it’s a practical way for anyone to save money by buying essentials when they’re discounted. Starting small with just a few key items can help you save hundreds of dollars over time while keeping your family prepared for the months ahead.
January is a great time to begin because post-holiday clearance sales and seasonal discounts make it easy to buy items for less. Whether you’re building your first stockpile or just trying to save on items you’ll use throughout the year, here are five of the best things to stock up on in January.
1. Holiday Decorations and Gift Wrap
Stores deeply discount holiday items in January to clear space for new inventory, which makes it the perfect time to save big. If you’ve ever had to pay full price for wrapping paper or decorations in December, you’ll appreciate the savings that January offers. Discounts range from 50% to 75%, and sometimes even higher, so now’s the time to plan ahead for next Christmas or other celebrations.
What to stock up on:
- Wrapping paper, gift bags, and bows
- Christmas lights, ornaments, and garlands
- Holiday-themed candles, napkins, and tableware
Why it saves you money:
By buying holiday items now, you’re avoiding the higher prices during the busy holiday season. A roll of wrapping paper that costs $6 in December might be marked down to $2 or less in January. Plus, stocking up now means you won’t be caught off guard next year, scrambling to buy supplies at full price.
Tips for beginners:
- Look for neutral or solid-colored wrapping paper and ribbons that can be used for birthdays or other occasions.
- Check big-box stores like Walmart and Target, as well as craft stores, for clearance sections.
2. Winter Clothing and Accessories
January is a great time to stock up on winter gear for your family because retailers begin clearing out coats, boots, and cold-weather clothing to make room for spring collections. Even though winter is still in full swing, you can find great deals on warm essentials that you’ll use for years to come.
What to stock up on:
- Coats, jackets, and sweaters
- Hats, scarves, and gloves
- Thermal socks and boots
Why it saves you money:
Winter clothing tends to go on sale in January, with discounts ranging from 30% to 60%. By buying at the right time, you can save hundreds of dollars, especially if you’re shopping for multiple family members.
Tips for beginners:
- Buy sizes that your kids can grow into next year to stretch your savings even further.
- Look for end-of-season clearance sales at major retailers or online.
3. Non-Perishable Foods to Build Your Pantry
Non-perishable foods are a cornerstone of any stockpile, and January is a great month to start building your pantry. Many grocery stores discount canned goods, boxed meals, and baking supplies after the holidays to clear out inventory or attract shoppers trying to eat at home more.
What to stock up on:
- Canned vegetables, fruits, and soups
- Pasta, rice, and boxed side dishes (like instant potatoes)
- Coffee, tea, and hot cocoa mixes
- Baking supplies like flour, sugar, and yeast
Why it saves you money:
Non-perishables have a long shelf life and are often discounted in January, making them ideal for a budget-friendly stockpile. For example, canned goods often last 1-5 years, so buying them during sales ensures you’re prepared for months without having to pay full price later.
Tips for beginners:
- Start small by stocking up on items your family already uses regularly.
- Use a sharpie to write the expiration date on the top of cans or boxes so you can rotate your pantry stock.
4. Fitness Equipment and Health Items
With so many people focusing on health and fitness goals in the new year, stores often discount wellness-related products to encourage shoppers to get started. Whether you’re trying to improve your own health or just want to be prepared, January is an ideal time to stock up.
What to stock up on:
- Vitamins and supplements
- Protein powders and meal replacement shakes
- Small workout equipment (resistance bands, dumbbells, yoga mats)
- Over-the-counter cold and flu medications
Why it saves you money:
Fitness and wellness items are heavily marketed in January, which means lots of sales and discounts. Small workout equipment, for example, might be 20-40% off at major retailers. Vitamins and supplements are also often bundled into “buy one, get one free” promotions.
Tips for beginners:
- Prioritize items that you’ll actually use regularly, like basic vitamins or workout gear.
- Look for online sales at stores like Amazon, Target, or Walmart.
5. Storage and Organization Supplies
The start of a new year is all about fresh starts, and for many people, that includes organizing their homes. Stores know this and offer big discounts on storage and organization supplies, making January a perfect time to stock up.
What to stock up on:
- Plastic storage bins and containers
- Closet organizers and shelving units
- Labels, drawer dividers, and file folders
Why it saves you money:
Organizational tools can be pricey later in the year, especially during back-to-school season. January discounts make it easier to tackle those decluttering projects without breaking the bank. Plastic storage bins, for example, might be marked down by 20-50%.
Tips for beginners:
- Use storage bins to organize holiday decorations, seasonal clothing, or pantry items.
- Buy neutral-colored bins that can be reused for any season.
Estimated Stockpile Costs for January Deals
| Category | Item Examples | Estimated Cost | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holiday Decorations | Wrapping paper, lights, ornaments | $15-$30 (bulk) | 50-75% off retail |
| Winter Clothing | Jackets, hats, gloves | $20-$50 per item | 30-60% off |
| Non-Perishable Foods | Canned goods, pasta, coffee | $10-$25 (variety pack) | Up to 40% off |
| Fitness & Health Items | Vitamins, small weights, yoga mat | $10-$40 | 20-40% off |
| Storage Supplies | Plastic bins, closet organizers | $10-$30 | 20-50% off |
How to Get Started Stockpiling in January
If you’ve never stockpiled before, don’t worry—you don’t need a ton of space or a big budget to get started. Focus on buying small amounts of the things you use most often and take advantage of January’s sales to save money.
- Start small: Stockpile items that your family uses every week, like canned goods, toilet paper, or snacks.
- Track your spending: Look for sales and only buy items that are on discount to maximize your savings.
- Stay organized: Use clear storage bins, label everything, and rotate older items to the front so you use them first.
Stocking up in January is an easy way to start saving money and preparing your household for the year ahead. By focusing on these five categories—holiday decorations, winter clothing, non-perishable foods, fitness gear, and storage supplies—you can build a smart, budget-friendly stockpile and be ready for whatever the year brings.