Save more at dollar stores

The discount retailers are so popular, there are now more than 30,000 stores across the country— and with these tricks, you can nab even bigger deals

Shop around for steals

If you shop at just one dollar store, you’re missing out on additional savings since you’ll find different inventory between chains: “At Dollar Tree, all merchandise is priced at $1 or less, and you can find lots of seasonal merchandise, books, toys and household items that change frequently,” reveals Collin Morgan, founder of Hip2save.com. “Dollar General and Family Dollar are like a small version of Walmart and have both name-brand and private-label staples like food, beauty products and health needs.” What’s more, inventory often varies from store to store within the same chain due to limited quantities or customer preferences, so it’s worth shopping around.

Snag the best bargains

While there are lots of savings to be had at dollar stores, there are certain buys that should not be missed! For example, if you see fresh fruit and vegetables, scoop them up. A new University of Nevada study reveals that 84% of produce is “significantly” cheaper than in grocery stores—and the quality is just as high! Other smart buys, according to Heather Wheeler and Joanie Demer, co-founders of Thekrazycouponlady. com: Sunday newspapers (which come with coupon inserts), greeting cards and name-brand OTC medicine.

Buy in bulk online

Brick-and-mortar dollar stores are about one-tenth the size of an average Walmart, which means you may not be able to purchase large quantities of certain items (such as bath tissue or party supplies) due to limited space for inventory. The good news? You can often find the products you want at an online dollar store—for example, at Dollartree.com and Dollargeneral.com—so you can get bulk quantities at a low dollar-store price!

Take advantage of coupons

Think prices can’t get any lower than they already are at dollar stores? “Don’t forget about coupons!” advises Morgan. “Dollar stores accept print coupons, and some offer digital coupons, which you can access from your phone right in the store to save even more.” Even better: If you’re lucky enough to come across a manufacturer’s coupon and a store coupon for the same item, Dollar General and Family Dollar both let you combine them for double the savings. Also smart: Be on the lookout for coupons that are equal to or greater than the value of a product since you can usually get it for free.