Dollar stores might not be your first stop for groceries, but they should be. Some of the food on those shelves is cheaper than anywhere else and still holds up. You won’t find every name brand or specialty item, but the basics are more than covered. Whether you need pantry staples, frozen vegetables or snacks for the week, it’s one of the easiest ways to stretch your budget without giving up convenience.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is one of the most practical pantry staples you can get at the dollar store. The instant packets are easy to grab and go, and they usually come in multipacks for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere. If you prefer making a bigger batch, the larger tubs of rolled oats are just as affordable and can stretch across breakfasts for the whole week.
Baking Mixes
Baking mixes from the dollar store are great for when you need something quick or in a pinch. Whether you’re whipping up brownies for a bake sale or just want pancakes without pulling out 10 ingredients, the basics are usually on hand and ready to go. The selection might not include every trendy brand, but what they have tends to be reliable and cheap enough to grab a few at a time.
Condiments
Dollar store condiments are a smart way to restock without overspending. You’ll usually find the basics like ketchup, mustard and mayo, and sometimes even hot sauce or salad dressing. The savings add up fast if you go through these regularly. They might not carry every variety, but for everyday use, it’s hard to beat the price.
Specialty Drinks
These are one of the biggest surprises hiding in the dollar store beverage aisle. From sparkling waters to random juice blends and the occasional kombucha, you can often snag a trendy drink for far less than you’d pay anywhere else. The stock rotates often, so you may not find the same thing twice, but it’s worth checking if you want a little treat without the fancy price tag.
Chips
The snack aisle at the dollar store can be hit or miss, but chips are usually a strong bet. It’s not uncommon to find name brands at a discount, especially in smaller bags that are perfect for lunchboxes or snacking on the go. They’re way cheaper than grabbing them at the gas station or convenience store, and you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture.
Frozen Foods
Most people don’t expect much from dollar store freezers, but they’re usually stocked with basic frozen fruits, veggies and even some meal starters. It’s an easy way to keep staples on hand without making a separate trip to the big grocery store. The prices are consistently lower, and the quality is better than you’d think for a quick stir-fry or smoothie addition.
Bread
Bread is one of those surprise finds that makes the trip worth it. Whether it’s basic white or whole wheat sandwich loaves or something more niche like low-carb options, dollar stores can have fresh options for way less than the supermarket. It may not last as long as bakery loaves, but if you go through bread quickly, it’s a solid way to cut back on your weekly spending.
Coconut Milk
Canned coconut milk can get weirdly expensive, especially if you’re shopping at natural food stores. The dollar store version usually costs at least a buck less and works the same way in everything from curries to smoothies. It’s a smart buy for anyone who uses it regularly or just wants to keep a can or two in the pantry for backup.
Spices
Spices are one of the easiest things to overpay for, especially when you only need a little. At the dollar store, you can grab the basics like garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon and Italian seasoning without spending $5+ a jar. If you’re stocking a new kitchen or just don’t need fancy stuff, this is where to start.
Granola
Granola is often priced like it’s full of gold, but dollar store bags keep it in a more reasonable price range. You might not find organic, artisanal brands, but what they do carry usually tastes just fine and costs way less than similar options at Target or the grocery store. It’s a good pick if you go through a lot or just want something crunchy for yogurt or snacks.
Coffee
You’re not going to find third-wave beans at the dollar store, but if your coffee standards are more about caffeine than craft, you might be surprised. Brands like Café Bustelo and instant options show up often and cost way less than at the grocery store. For backup caffeine or casual sipping, it’s worth a shot.
Beans
Beans are one of the best-value items in any grocery store, and even better at the dollar store. Canned or dried, they’re loaded with protein and fiber and work in just about anything. If you’re looking to stretch meals or build cheap dinners, this is the place to start. You can usually find black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas and more for under a buck.
Tea
The tea selection at dollar stores may not wow you, but it covers the basics. You’ll often find black, green or chamomile tea bags for way less than anywhere else. If you just want something warm to sip on at night or use it to make iced tea in summer, it’s a reliable buy.
Snack Sized Nuts & Pretzels
Snack-sized bags of nuts and pretzels are a smart pickup for school lunches, travel snacks or anyone who needs grab-and-go options. Larger stores tend to overprice these for convenience, but the dollar store keeps them budget-friendly.
Plant-Based Milks
Shelf-stable cartons of almond or oat milk are surprisingly common and much cheaper than the same brands at chain stores. If you’re dairy-free or just like having backup cartons for smoothies or cereal, this is a smart way to keep your fridge stocked without draining your wallet.
10 Grocery Hacks to Beat Inflation And Save Big
Feeling the pinch at the grocery store thanks to inflation? Prices are skyrocketing, but that doesn’t mean you have to bust your budget. Here are our best grocery hacks to help you beat inflation and save big on your next shopping trip. Get started and keep more money in your pocket!
Read it Here: 10 Grocery Hacks to Beat Inflation And Save Big
10 Common Foods That Now Cost a Fortune Thanks To Inflation
Inflation has been hitting everyone’s wallets hard, especially at the grocery store. Some of the most basic foods we buy regularly have seen their prices skyrocket. It’s surprising how much more we’re paying for essentials these days. These common foods have skyrocketed in cost thanks to inflation.
Read it Here: 10 Common Foods That Now Cost a Fortune Thanks To Inflation
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.
