Buying in bulk isn’t just for bargain hunters or people with extra storage space. It’s a smart way to save money, avoid last-minute store runs, and stay stocked up on the things you use every day. The items we rely on most for cooking, cleaning, and daily routines add up fast, and running out at the wrong time is always frustrating — like realizing there’s no rice left when you planned to make taco bowls for dinner. Keeping a good supply of those essentials on hand means fewer trips to the store and a little extra breathing room in your budget.
Rice
Rice is used in so many meals, from your favorite burrito bowl recipe to risottos and easy casseroles. It’s worth stocking up instead of buying one small bag at a time since it lasts for years if stored correctly. Transfer large bags into airtight containers or sealed glass jars and keep them in a cool, dark pantry. This keeps moisture and bugs out while helping the grains stay fresh and fluffy. With rice on hand, you’ll always have the start of a meal ready to go.
Pasta
Pasta makes sense to buy in bulk because it’s something most households reach for several times a week. You can stretch one box across multiple meals or mix and match shapes to keep dinners interesting. Keep unopened packages in a dry cupboard away from sunlight, or pour them into large sealed jars if you prefer to decant. Having plenty on hand means you can make a quick dinner anytime without running to the store.
Toilet Paper
No one wants to realize too late that there’s no toilet paper left, which makes this one an easy bulk buy. Larger packages usually cost less per roll, and they save you the hassle of frequent restocking. If you have the space, store extras in a dry closet, under a bed, or in labeled bins in the basement. You’ll always have plenty ready for guests or unexpected shortages, although hopefully not another pandemic.
Canned Beans
Canned beans are one of the easiest pantry staples to buy in bulk. They’re a fast, reliable protein source for soups, chili, salads, tacos, and stews. Keep them organized on sturdy shelves in a cool, dark place, and rotate older cans to the front so nothing goes to waste. Buying by the case is often cheaper, and it means you can throw together a quick, healthy meal anytime.
Nuts and Seeds
Buying nuts and seeds in bulk saves money and gives you the flexibility to portion out just what you need for snacks or recipes. They’re high in healthy fats but can turn rancid if exposed to heat or air, so store them in airtight containers or resealable freezer bags. Keep a small jar in the pantry for easy access and freeze the rest to maintain freshness for months. They’ll taste just as good as the day you bought them.
Flour
If you bake often, flour is one of the smartest things to buy in bulk. It keeps well as long as it’s protected from moisture and pests. Store it in sealed containers or food-grade buckets, ideally in a cool, dark pantry. For long-term storage, you can refrigerate or freeze portions, which helps prevent spoilage and keeps it fresh for up to a year. Nothing’s worse than wanting to bake some cookies and realizing you don’t have flour on hand to do so!
Oats
Oats are one of those ingredients that work for both sweet and savory dishes, from breakfast bowls to baked goods to meatloaf binders. Buying in bulk is far more affordable than small canisters. Store them in airtight containers away from light and humidity, and they’ll last for months. They’re shelf-stable, easy to use, and give you countless ways to make meals more filling.
Coffee Beans
If you start your day with coffee, buying beans in bulk is a simple way to save money and make sure you’re never out. Whole beans stay fresh much longer than pre-ground coffee, especially when stored in airtight containers away from heat and sunlight. For the best flavor, grind only what you need before each brew instead of preparing a large batch ahead of time. Divide big bags into smaller sealed jars or vacuum-sealed bags, opening one at a time so every pot tastes freshly roasted.
Cooking Oils
Cooking oils can be expensive in small bottles, so larger containers are a better deal over time. Whether it’s olive, avocado, or vegetable oil, store bulk sizes in a cool, dark cupboard to protect them from light and heat, which cause oils to turn bitter. Pour smaller amounts into a dispenser bottle for daily use, and leave the rest sealed until you need to refill. This keeps oil fresh for months and saves repeat trips to the store.
Frozen Vegetables
Buying frozen vegetables in bulk guarantees you always have a quick side or soup ingredient ready to go. They’re just as nutritious as fresh produce, sometimes even more so, and last much longer. Keep larger bags sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn, and portion out smaller amounts into reusable containers for convenience. Bulk frozen veggies make it easier to eat well, even on busy nights.
Laundry Detergent
Laundry detergent is a simple item that always runs out at the worst time. Buying a big jug or multiple-pack in bulk saves money per load and cuts down on waste. Store it in a cool, dry place with the lid closed tightly to prevent clumping or leaks. Whether you use pods, powder, or liquid, having a large supply on hand means one less household errand to worry about.
Toothpaste
Buying toothpaste in multi-packs makes sense since it’s something you use every single day — we hope. The tubes are small, easy to store, and last for years unopened. Keep extras in a bathroom cabinet or linen closet so they’re easy to grab when you run out. It’s one of the simplest ways to save money on a product you’ll never stop needing.
Pet Food
If you have pets, bulk bags of food can save you a noticeable amount over time. Buy in larger quantities to cut down on trips to the store and lower the cost per pound. Transfer the food to a sealed container to lock out moisture and pests while keeping the kibble fresh. Label it with the date you opened it so you can track freshness, and both you and your pet will benefit from the savings.
Don’t Leave Costco Without These 13 Organic Picks
Shopping at Costco can be overwhelming with so many options, but if you’re into organic products, there are some real gems you shouldn’t miss. From pantry staples to fresh produce, Costco’s organic selection is surprisingly impressive. We’ve narrowed down the top organic items that are not only great for your health but also your wallet. Check out what you should be adding to your cart on your next Costco run.
Read it Here: Don’t Leave Costco Without These 13 Organic Picks
12 Aldi Bargains That Put Other Stores to Shame
Shopping at Aldi can be a game changer for your wallet, but only if you know what to buy. Some items at Aldi are such incredible bargains that you’ll wonder why you ever shopped anywhere else. Here are the Aldi products that put other stores to shame, proving you can save money without sacrificing quality. These are the must-have deals that your grocery budget will thank you for.
Read it Here: 12 Aldi Bargains That Put Other Stores to Shame
*Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
