Costco is a favorite among shoppers who want to stock up on groceries, paper products, cleaning supplies, and other household basics for less. Buying larger packages can bring down the price per item, but warehouse shopping isn’t always the best fit for every budget or household.
Several other retailers offer good deals on family-size packages, pantry staples, and everyday necessities, and some don’t charge an annual membership fee. Depending on your storage space and shopping habits, these seven stores may be worth checking before your next Costco run.
1. BJ’s Wholesale Club
BJ’s Wholesale Club is a close competitor to Costco, especially for shoppers along the East Coast, with bulk groceries, paper goods, cleaning supplies, pet food, frozen foods, and seasonal merchandise. Regular coupons and special promotions can bring prices down even further, so check the current offers before filling your cart.
Related Article: 14 BJ’s Wholesale Club Membership Perks That Might Make You Rethink Your Costco Membership
2. Sam’s Club
Sam’s Club carries bulk groceries, drinks, snacks, household cleaners, personal care products, electronics, appliances, and outdoor furniture. Some products come in different package sizes, so you can stock up without buying the largest quantity available.
Related Article: Before You Buy These Items at Costco, Check Sam’s Club First
3. Walmart
Walmart offers family-size packages and value sizes of many everyday items, from laundry detergent and paper towels to pantry staples, toiletries, and pet supplies. It’s a convenient option for shoppers who want to stock up without paying for a warehouse membership or making a separate trip to a club store.
4. Target
Target carries multipacks, family-size groceries, and larger household products that can work well for shoppers who don’t need warehouse-sized quantities. It’s worth comparing unit prices on pantry goods, cleaning supplies, and toiletries, especially if your home has limited storage space.
Related Article: 14 Household Essentials That Are Cheaper in Bulk at Costco
5. Amazon
Amazon makes it easy to order larger packages of pantry staples, paper products, pet food, coffee, toiletries, and cleaning supplies from home. Compare the price per ounce or item with local stores, and check delivery fees and subscription terms before deciding whether an online deal is worth it.
6. Dollar Stores
Dollar stores can be useful for stocking up on inexpensive basics such as cleaning supplies, snacks, storage bags, party goods, and seasonal items. Check package sizes and unit prices carefully, since buying several small packages isn’t always cheaper than purchasing one larger pack elsewhere.
Related Article: 10 Dollar Store Buys That Aren’t the Bargain You Think
7. Aldi
Aldi keeps grocery costs down with affordable store-brand products, including canned goods, pasta, rice, baking ingredients, snacks, and frozen foods. It’s a practical option for smaller households or shoppers with limited storage who want to stock their pantries without buying oversized packages.
