If it seems as though you're passing a dollar store every few blocks, you're not imagining things. More than 37,000 dollar stores are spread across the U.S. They operate under names like Dollar General, Dollar Tree, and Family Dollar. To put that number in perspective, Walmart has around 4,717 stores located in the U.S.
To be clear, dollar stores would not exist if they weren't so popular. In many cases, dollar stores are a financial lifeline to households watching every dollar in their checking account. Big-chain retailers like Dollar General, Dollar Tree, and Family Dollar recognized when it was time to swoop into areas where the need was greatest.
No retailer is perfect, but here are four reasons to shop at the dollar store of your choice.
1. You can save money
It's safe to say the majority of dollar store shoppers are there to save money. However, that doesn't mean every item in the store represents the lowest price in town. It pays to have a shopping list and to know how much the items on your list would cost at another nearby store. There are some pretty great apps available to help you compare prices before you leave home.
Still, for the savvy shopper, there are bargains to be had. According to The Washington Post, here are some of the easiest ways to save money at a dollar store:
- Most dollar stores accept manufacturer coupons. Cut out paper coupons when you run across them, and check for digital coupons on the store's website or app.
- Speaking of websites, see if the dollar store you're visiting sells its products online. You'll save time and the temptation to impulse shop.
- When you find a great bargain, stock up. True bargains don't last long.
- No matter how low products are priced, resist the urge to buy anything you don't need.
2. It's fun
One of the best things about shopping at a dollar store is the rotating stock. There always seem to be new things on the shelves to look over. Sure, stores keep items that have sold well for them in the past, but at the same time, they bring in new and different inventory.
If you have a favorite dollar store and you're on social media, check to see if there's a dedicated page where shoppers share insider secrets. For example, if you're a big fan of Dollar General, there may be a Dollar General page you can visit to get ideas and share what you've found.
3. Dollar stores work well for small households
As of 2020 (the latest U.S. census), 27.6% of U.S. households consisted of one person. A great thing about shopping at a dollar store is that some of their products are specially packaged to be smaller. Not only does the smaller size help keep costs down, but it also means a single-person household is more likely to be able to use the product up while it's still good.
4. Seasonal items are often a steal
Dollar stores offer more than batteries and eyeshadow imported from who-knows-where. They're also a great place to pick up items that fit the season. For example:
- In spring, dollar stores are an ideal place to buy small planters and yard decor.
- By late summer, stores are full of back-to-school items like pens, pencils, crayons, and notebook paper.
- In the fall, you'll find plenty of spooky Halloween decorations and an aisle of candy for the trick-or-treaters.
- Around the holidays, you may be surprised to see holiday-themed plates, glasses, napkins, and anything else you'll need to entertain.
- Year-round, dollar stores are a great place to pick up greeting cards, wrapping paper, and party favors.
You may not want to do all your shopping at a dollar store, but every dollar you save is a dollar more you can tuck away into a savings account.
