A friend of mine recently expressed to me her embarrassment at shopping at the local 99 cent store. True, she’s out of work and has to economize. I was surprised to her say this, since I am a regular customer. Maybe I shouldn’t have been surprised – I’ve had several friends express shock that I shop at these stores. I’m not poor, but I’m not rich and the bargains are too good to pass up.

You might think of dollar stores as places to buy paper supplies, toys and kitschy holiday decorations. Well it is, but I’ve found a number of great deals that keep me coming back for more.

• Produce Who said feeding your family on the cheap meant forgoing fresh veggies and fruit? I am blown away by the 99 Cent Store’s selection of fresh produce, bread and tortillas every time I go. I’ve stocked up on cauliflower, potatoes, celery, mini carrots, salad mix, red bell peppers, pears, onions, chili peppers for nine dollars. (9 items, 99 cents each.) Try buying these items at a regular store for such a great deal. I wish these stores were spread all over the country. Apparently, they only have stores in Arizona, Texas, Nevada and California – a shame for those of you not living in these states.
• Spices Spices at the regular grocery chains run several dollars for a single container. You can get quantity amounts for just 99 cents, even things like sesame seeds.
• Aluminum foil According to this Shop Mart Magazine dollar store guide, aluminum foil is a deal at the many dollar stores across the country.
• Gift wrap – Even before Christmas, you can find really good deals here.
• Q-tips The same box that goes for $2.99 at the pharmacy or grocery store goes for $.99 here.

Despite some good deals – “you get what you pay for” is often true here, so buyer beware.

• Take a list of prices for items you purchase at the “regular” grocery store for comparison. Sometimes your regular grocery store sells these “bargains” cheaper than the dollar store.
• Check the quantity or net weight of the product. Is the dollar item cheaper but holds fewer fluid ounces or number of items? You’ll have to calculate per item to do the true comparison.
• Some toys are dangerous. The Shop Mart Magazine guide points out that some of the toys sold at dollar stores are leftover lots from China and Mexico and contain dangerous amounts of lead. Others have small parts which could be lodged in a child’s throat.
• Vitamins and Medicines. The Shop Mart Report found some items sold at the dollar stores had a expiration date one month after the purchase date.

With a little planning and some price comparison lists, you can save yourself a fortune without having to mess with coupons.

Are you a proud dollar store shopper and have more tips for us? Tell us by leaving a comment!

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