Let’s be honest: Starbucks is a treat, but those treat adds up fast. That $6 iced drink? Multiply it by 3 times a week and suddenly you’re looking at over $900 a year. But what if you could make your favorite Starbucks drinks at home—for a buck or two each—with ingredients you probably already have? That’s the magic of copycat recipes. I’m spilling the tea on 15 Starbucks-inspired drinks you can make in your own kitchen.

Note: The prices I’m using are for a Grande size in my town in northern California, and are accurate as of April 2025.

1. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

Why we love it: This cult favorite has a cozy cinnamon kick and a smooth oatmilk finish—like fall in a cup, shaken not stirred.

Ingredients: 2 shots espresso, 1 Tbsp brown sugar syrup, 3/4 cup oat milk, ice, cinnamon

At-Home Cost: ~$1.25 | Starbucks: $5.95 | Savings: $4.70

Issue When I Made It: The first time I made this, I didn’t shake it enough and it came out flat and kinda sad—definitely not giving “Starbucks energy”. Don’t be afraid to shake the hell out of it.

PRO TIP: SANS SHAKER?

Don’t have a cocktail shaker? Who cares. Grab a mason jar or literally any jar with a lid that won’t leak. Throw your ingredients and ice in there, screw it shut, and shake like you’re trying to wake up your last brain cell.

It’s not fancy, but it works—and it makes you feel like you’re doing something impressive. Pour it out through the lid or strain it if you’re feeling classy. No need for bar gear when you’ve got a jar.

See Also: Starbucks Menu Hacks That’ll Save You Bigly

2. Mocha Frappuccino

Why we love it: It’s dessert in a cup. Creamy, chocolatey, and ice-cold—basically a $6 caffeinated milkshake.

Ingredients: 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup strong coffee, 1.5 Tbsp chocolate syrup, 1.5 cups ice, whipped cream

At-Home Cost: ~$0.95 | Starbucks: $5.75 | Savings: $4.80

Issues The First Time I Made It: I got a little heavy-handed with the ice and ended up with a sad, slushy milk cube situation.

PRO TIP: MAKE IT CREAMY

Trying to get that thick, creamy Starbucks texture at home? Toss in a pinch—like 1/8 teaspoon—of xanthan gum.

Don’t have that? A spoonful of instant pudding mix works weirdly well. It smooths everything out and gives your drink that fancy, blended vibe without turning into weird, watery soup. No barista skills required. Just dump, blend, and sip like you paid $6 for it.

3. Iced Matcha Latte

Why we love it: Earthy and slightly sweet, this one makes you feel like you’re doing something healthy—even if you’re sipping it in your pajamas and vegging on the couch.

Ingredients: 1 tsp matcha powder, 2 Tbsp hot water, 3/4 cup milk, 1 tsp honey or simple syrup, ice

At-Home Cost: ~$1.10 | Starbucks: $5.75 | Savings: $4.65

Not a fan of Matcha so haven’t made this one yet, let me know in the comments if you’ve tried it.

PRO TIP: FROTH IT BABY

Look, if you’re gonna make a matcha, at least do it right. Grab that $10 milk frother you impulse-bought and put it to work.

It whips everything into a silky, no-clump situation in like five seconds. Your matcha deserves better than a sad swirl of green at the bottom of the cup. Froth it like you mean it. Bonus points if you pretend you’re on a cooking show.

4. Pink Drink

Why we love it: Instagram made it famous, but we love it for the light coconut flavor and fruity tea base. It’s basically summer in a cup and great for coffee haters.

Ingredients: 1/2 cup Passion Tea, 1/2 cup white grape juice, 1/2 cup coconut milk, strawberries, ice

At-Home Cost: ~$1.25 | Starbucks: $5.95 | Savings: $4.70

The First Time I Made It: I didn’t chill the tea before mixing, and the whole thing tasted like lukewarm regret. Also, I used the wrong coconut milk—the kind from a can—and it separated. Stick with the carton kind (the one by the almond milk).

PRO TIP: PLAN AHEAD

Make the tea when you’re already in the kitchen—just throw a few bags in hot water and stick it in the fridge.

That way you’re not standing around later, annoyed that you have to wait for it to cool. Cold Passion Tea = pink drink ready whenever. No thinking, no drama, just pour and go.

5. Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew

Why we love it: Smooth, strong coffee with a sweet and creamy finish. Think of it as your morning coffee “leveled up” and will take you down the road towards diabetes…which is nice.

Ingredients: 3/4 cup cold brew, 2 Tbsp vanilla syrup, 1/4 cup sweet cream (half & half + vanilla syrup), ice

At-Home Cost: ~$0.90 | Starbucks: $5.45 | Savings: $4.55

Issues When I Made It: I was out of half & half and so I used regular milk and it was sad and thin.

PRO TIP: CREAM IT YOURSELF

Mix up a jar of sweet cream and keep it in the fridge. It’s literally just cream, milk, and whatever sweetener you like.

Shake it once and you’re set for the week. No need to mess with measuring every morning or opening a million tiny containers. Just grab it, pour it, done.

See Also: Outside the Box Ways to Save Money at Starbucks

6. Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew

Why we love it: PSL’s chill cousin. You get the fall flavor without the sugary overload—plus the cold brew keeps it tasting like actual coffee, gasp.

Ingredients: 3/4 cup cold brew, 1 Tbsp vanilla syrup, pumpkin cold foam (cream + pumpkin purée + spice + syrup), ice

At-Home Cost: ~$1.50 | Starbucks: $5.95 | Savings: $4.45

When I Made It: This one comes from longtime blog reader Roxanne when she made it. “The pumpkin foam actually foamed (shoutout to my milk frother), and it floated on top just like the real thing. My husband took one sip, raised an eyebrow, and said, “Wait, you made this?” I said “damn right I did!”

PRO TIP: FREEZE YOUR OWN PUMPKIN

Got extra pumpkin purée? Don’t let it die in the back of the fridge. Scoop it into an ice cube tray and freeze it. Pop out a cube whenever you want to make a fall drink without opening a whole new can.

One cube = one cozy drink. No waste, no weird science experiment growing in the Tupperware.

7. Honey Citrus Mint Tea (aka Medicine Ball)

Why we love it: It’s cozy, it’s comforting, and somehow always hits the spot when you’re feeling like crap.

Ingredients: Teavana Jade Citrus Mint + Peach Tranquility tea bags, 3/4 cup hot water, 1/4 cup lemonade, 1 Tbsp honey

At-Home Cost: ~$0.95 | Starbucks: $4.75 | Savings: $3.80

When I First Made It: I used whatever random green tea I had in the pantry—big mistake. It tasted like hot lemon grass clippings.

8. Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino

Why we love it: This one is not subtle. It’s sweet, crunchy, creamy—it’s pretty much dessert disguised as a Starbucks drink.

Ingredients: 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup coffee, 1.5 Tbsp caramel syrup, 1.5 cups ice, whipped cream, crushed candy for crunch

At-Home Cost: ~$1.25 | Starbucks: $6.25 | Savings: $5.00

When I First Made It: Be sure to blend just enough to get it thick and frosty, then layer it like Starbucks does—caramel drizzle, whipped cream, more drizzle, then your candy crunch on top.

PRO TIP: GET YOUR CRUSH ON

Don’t overpay at the drive-thru. That Teavana tea they’re using? You can buy the same stuff online or grab it at Target for way less.

Same brand, same flavor—just without the $6 price tag and someone misspelling your name on a cup. Stock up once, and you’re set for weeks of DIY drinks.

9. Hot Chocolate

Why we love it: It’s simple, nostalgic, and kid-approved. Just don’t order it “kids” temperature or your kid will chug it and ask for more (trust me on this!).

Ingredients: 1 cup milk, 2 Tbsp cocoa powder, 1 Tbsp sugar, splash of vanilla, whipped cream

At-Home Cost: ~$0.70 | Starbucks: $3.95 | Savings: $3.25

PRO TIP: POLAR EXPRESS SPECIAL

Making hot cocoa? Toss in a chunk of dark chocolate while it’s heating like your Tim Hanks in The Polar Express. That’s it.

It melts down and suddenly your basic mix tastes like it came from some fancy café with jazz music and tiny spoons. No one has to know it started with a packet.

10. Chestnut Praline Latte

Why we love it: A holiday favorite with nutty warmth and sugary spice. Yes, I said nutty warmth. It tastes like December, minus the high credit card bill and piles of toys your kids will never actually play with.

Ingredients: 1 cup milk, 1 shot espresso, 1 Tbsp brown sugar syrup, dash hazelnut extract, candied nuts

At-Home Cost: ~$1.10 | Starbucks: $5.75 | Savings: $4.65

When I First Made It: I couldn’t find hazelnut extract, so I tried to fake it with almond… which was a bold and very wrong choice. I’ve since been able to track down the right extract and it’s a game-changer.

PRO TIP: FIRE UP YOUR OVEN

Got some pecans lying around? Throw ’em on a pan with a bit of sugar and cinnamon, then toast them. That’s it.

Crunchy, sweet, and way fancier than it has any right to be. Sprinkle on your latte or just eat them by the handful. No need to spend $7 on a seasonal drink when you’ve got snacks and a hot oven.

See Also: Tips to Get Free Starbucks on the Regular

11. Strawberry Açaí Refresher

Why we love it: Tart, fruity, and lightly caffeinated. It’s the afternoon pick-me-up that doesn’t taste like crap which green tea usually does.

Ingredients: 1/2 cup white grape juice, 1/2 cup green tea, 1 tsp açaí powder (optional), strawberries, ice

At-Home Cost: ~$1.10 | Starbucks: $4.95 | Savings: $3.85

When I First Made It: I tried skipping the açaí powder because I thought “how much could it matter?” — spoiler: a lot. Without it, the drink  just tasted like grape tea with floating berries.

PRO TIP: BE SMART WITH THE ICE

If you toss ice in too early, your drink’s just gonna sit there getting weak and weird.

Make it without the ice, stick it in the fridge, and pour it over ice when you’re actually ready to sip. Trust me—no one likes a watered-down drink. Cold and strong beats sad and slushy every time.

12. London Fog Latte

Why we love it: It’s the tea drink for people who want coffee vibes. Smooth, creamy, and a little fancy, not unlike the cool jacket from the 80’s. Yes, I’m proud to say I actually owned one.

Ingredients: 1 Earl Grey tea bag, 1/2 cup hot water, 1/2 cup steamed milk, 1 tsp vanilla syrup

At-Home Cost: ~$0.75 | Starbucks: $4.65 | Savings: $3.90

When I First Made It: I steeped the tea WAY too long and it got bitter. The fix is to steep the Earl Grey for exactly 3–4 minutes, heat the milk first, then froth it. And DO NOT skip the vanilla syrup—it’s what takes this bad-boy to a whole new level.

13. Cookie Butter Latte

Why we love it: A secret menu hit that tastes like a Biscoff cookie melted into a hug, I mean a mug.

Ingredients: 1 cup milk, 1 shot espresso, 1 Tbsp Biscoff spread, dash cinnamon & nutmeg

At-Home Cost: ~$1.15 | Starbucks: $5.75 | Savings: $4.60

When I First Made It: Not knowing what the hell I was doing, I just tossed the Biscoff in cold and tried to stir—big mistake. It just clumped at the bottom and was kinda gross. See pro tip below…

PRO TIP: USE YOUR MICROWAVE

Don’t just throw a Biscoff into cold milk and hope for the best.

Nuke that sucker with a splash of milk for like 20 seconds. It melts down smooth and creamy—no weird chunks floating around. Stir it up, pour it in, and thank your microwave for doing the heavy lifting.

14. Iced Americano with Cream

Why we love it: It’s bold and basic (in a good way). The cream takes the edge off and makes it kinda sweet, similar to my mother-in-law.

Ingredients: 2 shots espresso, 3/4 cup cold water, 2 Tbsp cream, ice

At-Home Cost: ~$0.60 | Starbucks: $3.75 | Savings: $3.15

When I First Made It: This is my go-to drink now. But when I first made it, I poured the hot espresso straight over the ice, and it was way too watered-down. Then I added too much cream and it was basically milky water. Now I let the espresso cool, add the cold water first, then pour it over ice. Perfection!

PRO TIP: ICE CUBE TRAY HACK

Got leftover coffee? Don’t toss it—just pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze it.

Next time you make iced coffee, use those instead of regular ice so it doesn’t taste like sad, brown water. It’s one of those little things that makes you feel like you’ve got your life together… even if you don’t.

15. Cinnamon Dolce Latte

Why we love it: Sweet, spicy, and full of cozy cafe vibes. It’s like a snickerdoodle with caffeine, no really, that’s exactly what it tastes like.

Ingredients: 1 cup milk, 1 shot espresso, 1 Tbsp cinnamon dolce syrup (or brown sugar + cinnamon + vanilla), whipped cream

At-Home Cost: ~$1.00 | Starbucks: $5.25 | Savings: $4.25

When I First Made It: I tried to shortcut the syrup with just cinnamon and sugar, turns out that’s how you make gritty milk. Now I make the full syrup (it’s easy, promise) and don’t skimp on the whipped cream. It’s called dolce for a reason—go sweet or go home.

PRO TIP: DIY THE SYRUP

Make your own syrup: simmer 1/2 cup water + 1/2 cup brown sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon until dissolved.

That’s your syrup. Pour it in your coffee, your tea, whatever. Smells amazing, tastes even better—and takes like five minutes to make.

Final Sip:

If you made all 15 drinks at Starbucks, you’d spend around $85, which is insane. Make ’em at home? Under $20. That’s a latte savings (sorry couldn’t resist).

Pick your favorites and batch your ingredients—your wallet and your taste buds will thank you.

Ask the Reader: Let me know what Starbucks copycats I should add to my article. Please include exactly how you make it, thanks!

By Kyle James

You go in for eggs. Maybe coffee. A few things. You walk out $300 lighter, cradling a flatbed cart filled with a 10-pound brisket, a neck pillow, and an inflatable kayak. We’ve all been there. That’s the Costco Effect—and it’s real. You need a smarter way to shop. Enter the Costco-Specific Budget — a plan tailored to the unique way Costco works its magic on your wallet. Let’s break it down…

Why Your Regular Budget Doesn’t Work at Costco

Let’s face it—your grocery budget wasn’t made for Costco. You go in for a few basics and suddenly you’re hauling out crap you don’t need, not to mention more string cheese than any human needs.

And don’t even start on the food court. That churro? It’s the gateway snack.

Here’s why:

– Bulk pricing creates a spending illusion. You’re saving money per unit, yes—but that doesn’t mean you’re spending less overall.

– Unplanned purchases are practically encouraged. There’s always a seasonal aisle, new Kirkland clothing item, or tech gadget to catch your eye.

– Price points are higher—even on essentials. Buying two months’ worth of detergent feels frugal, but it hits your bank account all at once.

– The “we might as well” effect. Since you’re there, you might as well grab the salsa sampler, a new book, and a 5-pack of Tommy Bahama solar lights.

If you’re treating Costco like just another stop on your shopping list, you’re setting yourself up to overspend.

PRO TIP: USE A SEPERATE DEBIT OR COSTCO CASH CARD

Costco’s a budget trap if you’re not careful. One minute you’re grabbing chicken, the next you’re eyeing a $400 massage chair.

Try using a separate debit card just for Costco—or better yet, load a gift card with your monthly limit. When it’s gone, you’re done. No mental math, no guilt, no “how did I spend $312?” moments.

See Also: Smart Costco Hacks to Maximize Your Savings

How to Build a Costco-Specific Budget

So how do you build a budget that keeps your spending in check—but still lets you enjoy your giant tubs of hummus?

Here’s a 4-Step system that works:

Step 1: Track Your Past Spending

Look back at your last 3–6 months of Costco purchases. Yes, this means digging into old receipts or checking your account statements. Break down what you’ve been buying and how often.

Step 2: Categorize Everything

Most Costco hauls break down into four types of purchases:

– Essentials: Groceries, toiletries, cleaning supplies.

– Restocks: Pantry staples, paper goods, pet food.

– Seasonal or Gifts: Holiday décor, birthday presents, party trays.

– Impulse/Fun: A three-pack of waffle mix you didn’t know you needed.

This breakdown will help you separate needs from wants—and build realistic spending buckets.

Step 3: Identify Patterns

Are you overspending every time you hit the book table? Buying snacks in bulk that never get finished?

Noticing your spending spikes every other month? The goal isn’t judgment—it’s insight.

Step 4: Set Your Budget by Category

Decide what you can spend each month at Costco. Then divide that amount into three mini-budgets:

– 60% Essentials

– 25% Restocks

– 15% Splurges or seasonal

If you only shop once every 4–6 weeks, treat your Costco budget like a mini savings plan: set aside money weekly so it’s ready when you go.

PRO TIP: USE THE “UNIT PRICE RULE” TO SPOT TRUE DEALS

Costco doesn’t always give you the unit price, so grab your phone and do a quick calculation—price divided by ounces, sheets, bags, whatever. Then compare it to what you’d pay at Target or your regular grocery store.

Just because it comes in a massive box doesn’t always mean it’s the best deal. Bigger isn’t always better… especially when it’s 40 packs of granola bars you don’t actually like.

See Also: The Kirkland Brands That Are Made by BIG Name Brands

Costco Budgeting Hacks from Seasoned Shoppers

Savvy Costco fans know this: the best budget is one you’ll actually follow.

Here are some hacks to help you stay on track:

– Shop with a list—and stick to it. The more specific, the better. “Snacks for school lunches” turns into $80 in mixed nuts. “1 box granola bars” keeps things focused.

– Use the “two-cart” trick. Mentally (or physically) divide your cart into “Need Now” vs. “Want Later.” Revisit your “Want Later” pile before checkout. You’ll almost always put something back.

I had longtime blog reader Elena, try this and she summed it up like this, “It’s like giving myself permission to want things, without committing to buying them. And nine times out of ten, the impulse wears off by the time I circle back to the front.”

When she hit the checkout line, she paused and asked herself: “If I only had $50 left, what would I still buy?”

Answer: None of the “Want Later” items made the cut. She put them all back. Final receipt: $112.48, not $175+.

– Time your trips. The fewer times you go, the fewer chances you have to impulse buy. Set a Costco schedule—every 4–6 weeks works for many.

Plan your meals around your haul. Got a 3-pack of spinach? Great. Now plan three dinners that use it. Budgeting without a meal plan leads to waste and re-buys.

Below is how one my faithful readers is implementing this tip.

From Heather in Boise, ID:

“I used to stop at Costco every other weekend ‘just to see what’s new’ and I’d always walk out with way more than I needed—hello, $300 bill.

Now, I’ve switched to going every five weeks, and I build my meal plan around whatever I buy in bulk. If I get a twin-pack of mushrooms, I know we’re having mushroom quesadillas, mushroom pasta, and a frittata that week. It seriously cut down on waste and my grocery spending.”

PRO TIP: MAKE YOUR COSTCO LIST “SMART”

A “SMART” list follows the layout of your particular Costco, guiding you aisle by aisle so you don’t backtrack—or detour into danger zones.

By sticking to the outer loop and avoiding the center aisles (where all the impulse buys and seasonal temptations live), you’ll get in, get what you need, and get out without blowing your budget.

How to Handle the Temptation Buys

Let’s be real. You’re not going to go to Costco and not buy at least one item that makes you giddy. And that’s okay. But don’t let those finds wreck your budget.

Here’s how to handle the thrill of the deal without guilt:

– Create a “Fun Fund.” Allocate a small part of your Costco budget—say $20–$50—for spontaneous buys. Make it official. Call it your “Kirkland Curiosity Cash.”

– Sleep on it. If you’re eyeing something over $40 that’s not on your list, snap a pic and walk away. Give it 24 hours. If you still want it, and it fits your budget, go back.

– Use gift cards as guardrails. Bring only a $150 Costco Shop Card if that’s your limit. No card, no temptation.

PRO TIP: SKIP THE CENTER AISLES

Costco is laid out like a treasure hunt. The outer perimeter holds the essentials—produce, dairy, meat, and frozen foods.

The middle? That’s where the budget busters live: books, tech, gadgets, and throw pillows. Shop the perimeter first. Only venture into the center if you have room left in your budget.

What NOT to Buy at Costco If You’re Budgeting

Some deals just AREN’T deals. Even Costco has duds—especially when you’re watching your spending.

Skip These If You’re Trying to Save:

– Individual snack packs: Often cheaper per unit at Walmart or Amazon.

– Clothing (unless it’s on deep clearance): Styles rotate fast, but quality and fit are hit or miss.

– Name-brand electronics: Costco has a good return policy, but not always the best price. Always comparison shop.

– Overly perishable produce: If you won’t eat a pound of spring mix in five days, skip it.

– Seasonal displays. That fire pit looks amazing. Do you have room for it? Did you budget for it?

Even long-time Costco employees admit: just because it’s in the store doesn’t mean it’s worth buying.

PRO TIP: SHOP WITH A TIMER

Set a timer before you walk in—seriously. Give yourself 30–40 minutes, tops. Costco is not a museum; you’re not there to admire the kayaks or test the memory foam.

The longer you wander, the more that 5 pound tub of Red Vines starts whispering sweet nothings. Treat it like a mission: in, out, done.

Ask the Reader: Have you ever walked into Costco for eggs and left with an air fryer? (I did that once) Tell me your biggest Costco splurge—I promise, no judgment (unless it was the karaoke machine).

By Kyle James

I left a dozen items in my Amazon cart and when I went back to my cart AFTER Trump’s tariffs, every price had gone up. Coincidence? Maybe. The latest round of import tariffs—particularly those aimed at China—could affect more than just international relations. If you’re like most of us who budget for groceries, electronics, and a comfy pair of sneakers, these new costs might hit you right in the shopping cart. Here’s what you need to know.

Electronics (Phones, Laptops, TVs)

What’s happening: Tariffs on Chinese-made components are likely to raise the prices of everyday tech—think iPhones, Androids, tablets, and TVs. Even if your favorite brands are American, many parts (and entire products) come from China.

Some analysts are even predicting that an iPhone will cost $3,500 if Apple brings only 10% off their manufacturing back to the United States.

Why it matters: That upgrade you’ve been putting off might get pricier by fall—especially at Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and Costco. The best time to upgrade might be now.

PRO TIP: MAKE REURB YOUR FRIEND

When possible, buy refurbished directly from manufacturers like Apple, Samsung, or Dell. They’re certified, warrantied, and usually a few hundred dollars cheaper. Bonus: you’re being eco-friendly, too.

Amazon Resale is also a great option as you can buy pre-owned, used, and open box electronics for up to 70% off the retail price.

See Also: Slick Ways to Save Money at Amazon You’ve Never Thought Of

Coffee Makers and Kitchen Gadgets

What’s happening: From air fryers to coffee machines, many small appliances rely on Chinese manufacturing or internal components.

Why it matters: Brands like Keurig, Ninja, and Instant Pot depend heavily on Chinese manufacturing, so new tariffs could drive up their production costs. And you better believe retailers like Costco, Amazon, and Target will adjust their prices to cover that.

What to do: Many analysts suggest that while large appliances might see significant price shifts, small appliances could experience slower increases.

I think shoppers are going to get picky about prices, which could push brands to run more sales or look for cheaper ways to make their products without raising prices too much. If you can’t afford a new major appliance upgrade right now, I’d wait rather than go into credit card debt.

PRO TIP: WATCH FOR OPEN-BOX SPECIALS

Watch for open-box deals at Best Buy or shop clearance aisles. Bonus: check if your credit card offers extended warranties on electronics and fix ’em instead of replace them.

Also, don’t overlook refurbished items on Amazon or direct from the brand—many come with warranties and work just like new.

Auto Parts & Repairs

What’s happening: Tariffs on imported parts could make car repairs more expensive—especially for things like brakes, filters, and sensors.

Why it matters: If your car’s been making that “I’ll deal with it later” noise, now’s the time to actually deal with it. With parts prices creeping up, shops like Pep Boys, Midas, and even dealership service centers could start charging more soon. That little rattle might cost a lot less today than it will a month from now.

PRO TIP: DO BIG REPAIRS NOW

Lock in repairs now. And for DIYers, check out used parts from reputable local salvage yards or RockAuto.com. You might save 40% or more.

See Also: Tips to Build a Costco Budget Without Spoiling the Fun

Clothing and Shoes

What’s happening: A huge percentage of America’s affordable fashion is made in China, Cambodia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India. That includes basics from Target, Amazon, Walmart, Old Navy, and Kohl’s.

These countries face tariffs ranging from 26% all the way up to 49%.

Why it matters:hat $20 pair of jeans? It might be $28 before you know it. And your go-to $12 tee at Old Navy? Get ready to pay $15.

What to do: Smart shoppers are already turning to spots like eBay for better deals. You can score both new and gently used clothes for way less than what you’d pay in stores—and half the time, they still have the tags on.

PRO TIP: SHOP EARLY FOR WINTER

Buy out-of-season. Shop for winter coats in March and swimsuits in September. You’ll snag better deals and avoid tariff-inflated pricing.

Also, know the days that major retailers do their markdowns so you can get first dibs on new clearance items.

Avocados and Imported Groceries

What’s happening: Avocados from Mexico are still okay for now, but that could change. What’s already going up? Stuff like olive oil, cheese, and nuts. Tariffs on the ingredients are making those things more expensive, and it’s starting to show on store shelves.

Why it matters: Avocado toast used to be, what, $1.50? That might not last. Stores like Trader Joe’s and Safeway are getting hit with higher prices on imported stuff, so everything from olive oil to avocados could go up. Could turn your cheap breakfast into a splurge real fast.

PRO TIP: BUY DOMESTIC

Buy California-grown avocados in season, and explore local farmer’s markets.

For imports like olive oil and Parmesan, try ethnic grocery stores—they often have better prices and quality than chain supermarkets.

See Also: Employees Tell Me the Best Buys at Trader Joe’s

Toys and Games

What’s happening: About 85% of toys sold in the U.S. are made in China. That includes dolls, action figures, electronic games—you name it.

Why it matters: Come holiday season, toy prices may surge, especially at Walmart, Target, Amazon, and Five Below.

PRO TIP: MAKE “USED” YOUR FRIEND

Shop early. Like, now. And don’t sleep on consignment sales or neighborhood swaps—many barely-used toys end up there after birthdays and holidays.

Wine

What’s happening: Love wine? Get ready to pay more. Bottles from places like France and Italy are getting slapped with a 20% tariff. So yeah, your favorite weeknight wine is about to get more expensive—for no good reason.

And it’s not just EU wines. Imports from the UK, New Zealand, Argentina, and Australia (which also rank high in U.S. wine imports) will now come with a 10% tariff, according to the USDA.

Why it matters: Since these countries make up a big chunk of the wine we drink here in the U.S., don’t be surprised if your favorite bottle starts creeping up in price at Costco, Trader Joe’s, or your local grocery store.

PRO TIP: TIME TO CONSIDER STORE BRANDS

Love wine but hate the price hikes? Stick to store brands. Retailers like Costco (Kirkland Signature), Trader Joe’s (Two-Buck Chuck), and Aldi offer surprisingly solid bottles at wallet-friendly prices.

They’re often sourced from the same regions as big-name labels, just without the markup. Stock up before tariffs trickle down to shelf prices.

Furniture and Home Goods

What’s happening: From IKEA nightstands to Wayfair couches and Walmart dressers, most affordable furniture relies on Chinese manufacturing. Tariffs here could push prices way up.

Why it matters: Setting up a dorm, guest room, or new apartment just got more expensive. Check Facebook Marketplace, estate sales, or Buy Nothing groups. You’ll save money and maybe score something sturdier than flat-pack furniture.

PRO TIP: FIND A “RETURN” STORE

If you have an Amazon or Costco return store in your town, you’ll want to check it out when buying stuff for your dorm room. I’ve personally found HUGE deals on microwaves, small refrigerators, cool bedroom decor, and bathroom gadgets.

People are still going to be making returns, leading to liquidations, so these return stores should keep having great deals, despite the tariffs.

Cleaning Supplies and Personal Care

What’s happening: Many soaps, detergents, and shampoo ingredients come from China. Tariffs could affect both name brands and generics sold at CVS, Walgreens, Target, and Walmart.

Price Increases: Consumers may notice gradual price increases on cleaning and personal care products as retailers adjust to higher import costs.​

What to do: Stay informed about price changes and consider purchasing essential items before significant increases occur.​

PRO TIP: BUY IN BULK

Consider buying in bulk to take advantage of current pricing and reduce the frequency of purchases. Try refillable or concentrated products. Brands like Blueland, Grove, or Costco’s Kirkland concentrates often cost less per use—and create less waste.

Scented Candles & Home Fragrance

What’s happening: The fragrance oils, glass jars, and packaging in your favorite candles often come from China.

Popular brands like Bath & Body Works and Yankee Candle may face rising production costs.

Why it matters: A $24 candle might inch up closer to $30.

PRO TIP: FIND SALES (THEY EXIST!)

Buy during semi-annual sales, or switch to wax melts and essential oil diffusers, which can stretch further per use.

School and Office Supplies

What’s happening: Binders, pens, notebooks, and markers are often produced or packaged in China. This includes budget brands found at Dollar Tree, Target, Walmart, and Office Depot.

Why it matters: Back-to-school costs could rise—just as families are already stretching their budgets.

PRO TIP: DON’T WAIT

Stock up early in the summer when school supplies hit clearance bins. Warehouse stores also sell bulk packs at a big discount.

See Also: Smart Hacks to Save on Your Back-to-School Shopping

Pet Supplies

What’s happening: Toys, beds, grooming tools, and even packaging for pet treats often originate overseas.

Why it matters: Your pet’s chew toy habit might start costing more at PetSmart, Chewy, and Petco.

PRO TIP: DISCOUNT STORES ARE GREAT

Check discount stores like TJ Maxx or Marshalls for deals on pet beds, toys, and supplies. Or consider auto-ship discounts through Chewy for ongoing supplies.

See Also: 9 Smart Ways to Save Money at TJ Maxx

Holiday Decorations

What’s happening: Most artificial Christmas trees, Halloween décor, string lights, and seasonal trinkets are made in China.

Why it matters: You could see higher prices at Home Depot, Lowe’s, Hobby Lobby, and Michaels.

PRO TIP: SHOP AFTER XMAS

Shop post-holiday clearance for next year, or try crafting your own décor using supplies from dollar stores or nature.

Tariffs might be here to stay, but they don’t have to wreck your budget. By planning ahead, shopping smarter, and getting a little creative, you can soften the blow and keep your finances in check.

And you never know, you might just discover better products and deals in the process.

Ask the Reader: What prices have you seen rise due to the tariffs…let me know in the comments.

By Kyle James