10 Groceries I Always Stock Up on Before Winter

Winter has a sneaky way of creeping up on us, and before you know it, you’re in the thick of holiday prep and those bone-chilling mornings. Over the years, I’ve had my fair share of “Oops, we’re out of that!” moments, which always seem to happen when it’s freezing outside and the last thing you want to do is run to the store.

Plus, let’s be real, prices just aren’t what they used to be come December.

So, from one busy mom to another, I want to share my list of top groceries to stock up on now. These are the staples that keep my kitchen running smoothly, help me whip up warm meals for my boys and my husband, and save me from those all-too-frequent grocery store price hikes.

Here’s what to fill your pantry with, so you can enjoy the winter months a little more stress-free.

Fruits and Vegetables

Stocking up on fruits and vegetables before winter isn’t just about filling the freezer—it’s about smart planning. Prices for produce like blueberries and cherries skyrocket when they’re off-season because they have to travel from afar to reach our kitchens.

To avoid this, I capitalize on current lower prices by preserving what I can. Making jams, marinara sauces, or even pickles from fresh produce not only saves money but also adds a homemade touch that store-bought items just can’t match. These home-canned goods serve as delightful gifts and add a special touch to any holiday spread.

For those less inclined to can, frozen fruits and vegetables are a godsend. They lock in nutrients and provide that summer freshness even on the dreariest winter days. Stocking up on frozen goods is an economical move that ensures you always have a healthy side ready to go.

Spices

When it comes to spices, buying in bulk can be a game-changer, especially as the holiday cooking season approaches. I’ve learned the hard way that running out mid-recipe can be frustrating. Check out local international markets or bulk sections for the best deals.

Reusing old spice jars and filling them with new, whole spices not only cuts down on waste but also keeps your flavors vibrant longer. Whole spices last significantly longer than ground ones and grinding them at home with a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle means you get the freshest flavor when you need it.

Cooking Oils

In our house, cooking oils are indispensable, especially as we dive into the comfort food season. With everything from sautéing veggies to whipping up quick stir-fries, having a variety of oils like olive, vegetable, and canola on hand is a must. However, come winter, their prices can really go up due to supply chain hiccups and increased demand.

I’ve learned that stocking up early not only secures better prices but also ensures that we’re set for any culinary challenge. Plus, these oils last a long time, so it’s worth grabbing a few extra bottles now.

Oats

Oats are a breakfast hero in our family, but they’re also fantastic for baking. With the weather turning colder, there’s nothing quite like starting the day with a warm bowl of oatmeal. But, just like many pantry staples, oats tend to become more expensive in winter due to rising demand and production costs. By purchasing oats in bulk now, you can avoid those seasonal price spikes.

Oats store beautifully and are a hassle-free way to add nutrition to your diet, making them perfect for hearty, warming dishes that fuel us through the chillier months. Stock up now, and you’ll be ready to enjoy everything from yummy chocolate chip baked oatmeal to homemade granola bars without any stress.

Flour

Every winter, I make sure our pantry is well-stocked with flour because let me tell you, there’s nothing like the smell of fresh bread or cookies baking when it’s snowing outside. Flour isn’t just for those sweet treats; it’s crucial for thickening gravies and making hearty sauces for those winter stews.

However, come winter, the price of flour tends to climb due to the rise in production and transportation costs. By stocking up now, you’ll avoid those spikes and be ready to bake or cook at a moment’s notice.

Hot Beverages

Winter is coming, and there’s nothing like wrapping your hands around a warm mug on a chilly evening. Now’s the perfect time to grab deals on tea, coffee, and hot cocoa mixes—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

Prices tend to jump when everyone’s looking for that warm cup to soothe the soul, so buying in bulk now can save you a bit when it matters most. Keep an eye out for those bigger packages! They’re usually the best bang for your buck.

Butter, Cream Cheese, Etc.

If you’ve ever faced the holiday baking rush, you know ingredients like butter and cream cheese can become gold dust. Prices soar as Thanksgiving and Christmas near, so I always stock up early. Freezing extra blocks of cream cheese and butter works wonders—they last much longer than you’d think.

Sugar

Just like flour, sugar is a must-have as the holidays approach. It’s essential for everything from baking pies to creating those sweet glazes that everyone loves. However, sugar prices can soar due to the increased demand during festive seasons and unexpected shifts in production costs.

Buying sugar in bulk at this time of year ensures I don’t fall short during our holiday baking marathons. Plus, it’s always useful for sweetening up those winter morning coffees.

Pasta

Pasta has saved many a dinner in my house—there’s something about twirling spaghetti that just feels comforting when it’s bleak outside. To dodge those seasonal price hikes, I load up on various pasta types while they’re cheaper. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about ensuring we can enjoy hearty meals like lasagna or mac and cheese anytime we want during the winter.

Plus, pasta has a fantastic shelf life. Stock your pantry with it, and you’ll always have a quick meal option ready to go.

Rice

Rice is the unsung hero of my pantry, especially when winter’s chill sets in. Just like pasta, the price of rice can jump due to demand spikes and supply chain snags as the year ends. By stocking up now, you ensure that this versatile staple is on hand for whatever recipe might come your way, from creamy risottos to comforting soups.

Rice’s longevity is a bonus, staying fresh for months on end. Keeping a supply means you’re ready to bulk up meals economically and nutritiously, which is a win when feeding a hungry family through colder months.