Grocery stores are convenient, but convenience often comes with a price. While they may be the perfect place to grab milk, produce, and dinner ingredients, there are plenty of everyday items that typically cost far more than they should. If you’re trying to stretch your budget, these are some of the items worth buying elsewhere.
Kitchenware
Pots, pans, and kitchen gadgets displayed near grocery aisles are rarely the best value. Big-box retailers, warehouse clubs, and online stores typically offer better quality and lower prices.
Gift Wrap and Gift Bags
Many shoppers grab wrapping paper and gift bags while grocery shopping, but these items are often marked up significantly. Dollar stores usually carry nearly identical options for much less.
Related: These Grocery Chains Are Cheapest Across the Country
Pre-Cut Fruits and Vegetables
You’re paying a premium for someone else to do the chopping. Buying whole produce and cutting it yourself can save a surprising amount of money every week.
Related: Want Cheaper Groceries? A New Study Says Skip Walmart and Shop Here
Cleaning Supplies
Laundry detergent, dish soap, disinfecting wipes, and paper towels are often cheaper at warehouse clubs or discount retailers. Grocery stores frequently charge more for the same brands and sizes.
School Supplies
Pens, notebooks, markers, and folders tend to be marked up outside of back-to-school season. Big-box stores and office supply stores usually offer better pricing.
Pet Toys
Grocery stores typically carry a limited selection of pet toys at premium prices. Pet supply stores and online retailers often offer better quality and lower prices.
Related: How To Make Your Airbnb Pet Friendly: The Pros And Cons
Greeting Cards
It’s easy to grab a birthday or holiday card while shopping for groceries, but you’ll often pay several dollars for a single card. Dollar stores, discount retailers, and online packs usually offer similar designs for a fraction of the cost.
Magazines
Single magazine issues at the grocery store often carry premium prices. If you regularly enjoy a publication, a yearly subscription is usually much cheaper than buying individual copies.
Diapers
Parents already spend enough on diapers without paying grocery store markups. Subscription services, warehouse clubs, and online retailers frequently offer lower prices and automatic delivery options.
Party Supplies
Balloons, napkins, tablecloths, and decorations are easy impulse purchases while grocery shopping. Dollar stores and party supply retailers usually sell the same items for much less.
Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is another product where buying in bulk often pays off. Warehouse stores and subscription programs frequently offer lower per-roll pricing than grocery store shelves.
Gift Cards
Many grocery stores sell gift cards at face value, which seems harmless enough. However, warehouse clubs often sell restaurant and entertainment gift cards at a discount, allowing you to get more value for the same amount of money.
