Saving money on groceries is a priority for many households, and ALDI has earned a reputation for offering high-quality products at lower prices. With a few strategic tips, you can maximize your savings at ALDI and stretch your grocery budget even FURTHER. Here’s some very practical advice for making the most out of your next shopping trip to your local ALDI.

1. Plan Your Meals and Make a Shopping List

One of the best ways to save money on groceries is to plan your meals for the week.

By deciding in advance what you’ll cook, you can create a precise shopping list and AVOID impulse buys.

Before heading to ALDI, take inventory of what you already have at home.

Plan your meals around items you already own and make a list of what you need to buy.

Stick to this list while shopping to avoid unnecessary purchases.

2. Use ALDI’s Weekly Ads and Specials

ALDI offers weekly ads that highlight their current specials and deals.

These ads can be found online or in-store. Reviewing these ads before you shop can help you take advantage of the best deals.

ALDI also has special “Aldi Finds,” which are limited-time offers on a variety of items, from food to household goods.

Planning your shopping trip around these specials can lead to significant savings.

See Also: The Best Stuff to Buy at ALDI to Maximize Your Savings

POTENTIAL SAVINGS AT ALDI?

When buying essentials like vegetables, canned goods, pasta, dairy, and eggs you can expect to save 10-15% compared to a store like Walmart. Just go check out the store if you haven’t, you’ll be AMAZED with their low prices. The one item where you won’t save very much is on meats.

3. Buy ALDI’s Private Label Brands

One of ALDI’s biggest cost-saving strategies is their extensive range of private label brands.

These brands are often just as good, if not better, than their name-brand counterparts but come at a fraction of the cost.

Some popular ALDI brands include:

– Simply Nature: Organic and non-GMO products.

– liveGfree: Gluten-free products.

– Never Any!: Meat products free from antibiotics, added hormones, and animal by-products.

– Little Journey: Baby essentials like diapers, formula, and baby food.

– Specially Selected: Gourmet and specialty items.

4. Bring Your Own Bags

ALDI encourages eco-friendly practices by requiring customers to bring their own bags.

If you forget, you can purchase bags at the store, but this adds to your total cost.

Bringing reusable bags not only saves you money but also helps reduce plastic waste.

5. Use a Quarter for the Cart

At ALDI, you’ll need a quarter to unlock a shopping cart.

This system helps keep costs down by ensuring carts are returned properly and not left scattered around the parking lot.

When you return your cart, you get your quarter back. Remember to bring a quarter with you to avoid any inconvenience.

6. Take Advantage of ALDI’s Return Policy

ALDI has a generous return policy called the “Twice as Nice Guarantee.”

If you’re not satisfied with a product, ALDI will replace it and refund your money.

This policy applies to most items except for non-food ALDI Finds, alcohol, and national brands.

This guarantee ensures you can shop with confidence, knowing that your satisfaction is a priority.

PRO TIP

Beware of the “treats” trap. From this Reddit thread, “I spend more money on “treats” at Aldi then I do elsewhere because they are cheaper, but I end up getting more.” This is an easy trap to fall into thinking you’re saving money but end up spending more in the long run.

7. Shop ALDI Finds Early

ALDI Finds are special items that are available for a limited time and in limited quantities.

These can range from seasonal food items to home goods, and they often sell out quickly.

To get the best selection and take advantage of these deals, shop early in the week and early in the day.

See Also: Clever Tricks to Save Big at the Grocery Store

8. Compare Prices Per Unit

When shopping at ALDI, pay attention to the unit prices listed on the shelf tags.

This information allows you to compare the cost per ounce, pound, or item, helping you identify the best deals.

Sometimes, larger packages may seem like a better deal, but the unit price can reveal otherwise.

9. Stock Up on Non-Perishables During Sales

When you find a great deal on non-perishable items, consider stocking up.

Products like pasta, rice, canned goods, and household items can be stored for long periods and purchased in bulk when prices are low.

This strategy can help you save money in the long run and reduce the number of shopping trips you need to make.

10. Utilize ALDI’s App

The ALDI app is a valuable tool for saving money.

It provides access to weekly ads, special deals, and the latest ALDI Finds.

You can also create a digital shopping list within the app to keep track of what you need.

Additionally, the app sometimes features exclusive digital coupons and offers that can help you save even more.

See Also: Staples and Food Items That Don’t Really Expire

11. Shop Seasonal Produce

ALDI offers a variety of fresh produce, and buying what’s in season can save you money.

Seasonal fruits and vegetables are often cheaper and fresher than out-of-season options.

For example, buy berries and corn in the summer, apples and pumpkins in the fall, and root vegetables like carrots and potatoes in the winter.

“Time Saver” Factor

For many ALDI shoppers the time savings is a HUGE positive. It’s very easy to be in and & out of ALDI with a full cart is less than 30 minutes. If you’re a fan of less choice, and don’t need to pick between 6 brands of things like flour, eggs, pasta, and cheese you’ll love ALDI.

12. Check the Clearance Section

Most ALDI stores have a clearance section where you can find deeply discounted items.

These are often products that are nearing their expiration date or seasonal items that need to be cleared out.

Checking this section can lead to significant savings on groceries and household goods.

13. Avoid Pre-Packaged Convenience Foods

While pre-packaged convenience foods can save time, they are often more expensive than buying ingredients separately and making meals from scratch.

Cooking from scratch can be more cost-effective and healthier.

Look for basic ingredients at ALDI and make your own snacks, meals, and baked goods.

14. Buy in Bulk Wisely

Some items are more cost-effective when bought in bulk.

ALDI offers a variety of bulk items, but it’s important to ensure you’ll use them before they expire.

Non-perishable items like toilet paper, paper towels, and certain dry goods are good candidates for bulk buying.

15. Compare Prices with Other Stores

While ALDI is known for its low prices, it’s always a good idea to compare prices with other local grocery stores.

Sometimes, other stores may have sales or promotions that make certain items cheaper.

Use price comparison apps or check weekly ads from other stores to ensure you’re getting the best deals.

16. Use Cash to Limit Spending

One way to avoid overspending is to shop with cash.

Decide on a budget before you go shopping and bring only that amount in cash.

This method can help you stick to your budget and make more mindful purchasing decisions.

17. Take Advantage of Special Buy Weeks

ALDI periodically has “Special Buy” weeks where they offer themed products at discounted prices.

These weeks might focus on international foods, kitchen gadgets, or other unique items.

Keep an eye out for these special events to score great deals on items you wouldn’t normally find at ALDI.

See Also: The Cheapest Grocery Stores in Your Neck-of-the-Woods

18. Buy Store Brands Over National Brands

ALDI carries some national brands, but their store brands are usually cheaper and of comparable quality.

Whenever possible, opt for the store brand to save money.

The quality is often just as good, and you’ll be spending less on your overall grocery bill.

19. Plan Your Shopping Around ALDI’s Restocking Schedule

ALDI typically restocks their shelves on Wednesdays, which is also when their weekly ads start.

Shopping on this day can give you first access to the freshest produce and the best deals.

Check with your local ALDI to confirm their restocking schedule.

See Also: Shop on the Right Day…12 Tips on Store Markdown Days

20. Shop Alone

Shopping with family or friends can sometimes lead to unplanned purchases.

To avoid this, consider shopping alone so you can stay focused on your list and budget.

This can help you make more mindful decisions and avoid impulse buys.

21. Learn to Love ALDI’s Weekly Themes

ALDI often rotates themes for their special buys, such as Italian week, German week, or Asian week.

Embrace these themes and plan your meals around the featured products.

This can add variety to your meals and allow you to try new items at discounted prices.

22. Check for Digital Coupons and Rebates

While ALDI doesn’t typically offer coupons, they occasionally have digital coupons or rebates available through their app or website.

Check for these offers before you shop, as they can provide additional savings on already low prices.

See Also: Hate Clipping Coupons? Smart Ways to Save Without Clipping

23. Make Use of Freezer-Friendly Foods

Many of ALDI’s products are freezer-friendly, allowing you to buy in bulk and store for future use.

Items like meats, bread, vegetables, and even certain fruits can be frozen to extend their shelf life.

This strategy helps you take advantage of sales and reduce waste.

24. Avoid Shopping When Hungry

It’s a well-known tip, but it’s worth repeating: never shop on an empty stomach.

Shopping when you’re hungry can lead to impulse buys, especially of higher-priced snack items.

Eat a meal or snack before heading to ALDI to help you stick to your list and budget.

Ask the Reader: How do you save money when shopping at ALDI? Let me know what tip or trick I may have missed.

By Kyle James

While Costco is known for its value and variety, many savvy shoppers might not be aware of an even more lucrative avenue for savings: Costco liquidation stores. These hidden gems offer an incredible range of products at significantly reduced prices, many of which were originally Costco returns. In this guide, we will delve into what Costco liquidation stores are, how to find them, the types of products and brands they carry, and the potential savings you can reap.

What Exactly Are Costco Liquidation Stores?

Costco liquidation stores are outlets that sell products Costco could NOT sell in their main stores.

These items can include overstock, returned goods, discontinued products, or seasonal items.

While these products are no longer sold at regular Costco warehouses, they are still available at liquidation stores at drastically reduced prices.

PRO TIP: COSTCO RETURN POLICY LEADS TO GREAT LIQUIDATIONS

Because Costco takes back everything, they send a ton of products to liquidation. For consumers this is a good thing as these Costco return stores are filled to the brim with good deals. I’ve seen nice pot and pan sets that appeared to maybe be used one time, furniture that appeared brand new, and even food items like protein bars and snack items. All being sold at 50% – 90% off the original Costco price.

How to Find Costco Liquidation Stores

Finding a Costco liquidation store isn’t as straightforward as locating a regular Costco warehouse, but with a bit of research, you can uncover these treasure troves.

Here are a few strategies to help you find them:

1. Online Search: Start with a simple online search for “Costco liquidation stores near me” or “Costco surplus stores”. This can help you identify any nearby outlets.

2. Liquidation Marketplaces: Websites like Liquidation.com and B-Stock Solutions often list Costco liquidation auctions. These platforms sell bulk lots of Costco merchandise to both businesses and individual consumers.

PRO TIP: GET SOCIAL & ASK COSTCO EMPLOYEES

The best way to find a Costco liquidation store is to ask an employee at your local Costco warehouse. They often have information on where excess inventory and returns are sent or if there are any affiliated liquidation stores in the area.

3. Social Media and Forums: Platforms like Facebook, Reddit, and local community forums can be valuable resources. Join groups or discussions focused on discount shopping or liquidation deals where members often share tips and locations.

4. Local Retail Listings: Check local business directories and retail listings for surplus or liquidation stores in your area. These stores might not always advertise their connection to Costco explicitly, so keep an eye out for descriptions like “discount retail” or “warehouse outlet.”

See Also: How to Find Amazon Liquidation Stores and Save a BOAT Load of Money

What Store Names Should You Look For?

When looking for these stores in your neck-of-the-woods, ANY store name that include the words “liquidation”, “bins”, “surplus”, or “wholesale outlet” is a great place to start.

To give you an idea, here are some actual names of Costco liquidation stores:

– Bargain Bins

– STORE NAME “Wholesale Outlet”

– Overstock Outlet US

– Falling Prices

– Liquidation Depot

– Last Chance

– Oliver’s Liquidation Discount Store

Can You Find These Store Online Too?

Yes.

In recent years, online Costco liquidation stores have been popping up and they provide some great values, especially if you’re looking to buy in bulk and want resell the items for a profit.

Here are a few to check out:

 B-Stock Solutions

Select Liquidations

Direct Liquidations

Products and Brands You Can Find

Costco liquidation stores carry a vast array of products, reflecting the diversity of items sold in regular Costco warehouses.

Here’s a breakdown of the types of products and brands you can expect to find:

Electronics

– Televisions: High-end brands like Samsung, LG, and Vizio.

– Computers and Accessories: Laptops, monitors, and peripherals from brands such as HP, Dell, and Logitech.

– Smart Home Devices: Items like smart speakers, security cameras, and home automation products from brands like Google, Amazon, and Nest.

Home Goods

– Furniture: Sofas, dining sets, and bedroom furniture from brands like Sealy, La-Z-Boy, and Thomasville.

– Appliances: Kitchen appliances such as blenders, coffee makers, and microwaves from brands like KitchenAid, Ninja, and Cuisinart.

– Home Décor: Rugs, lighting fixtures, and decorative items.

Clothing and Accessories

– Apparel: Casual and formal wear for men, women, and children from brands like Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and Levi’s.

– Shoes: Footwear from brands like Nike, Adidas, and Skechers.

– Accessories: Bags, hats, and jewelry.

See Also: What’s a Target Salvage Store? (PLUS How to Find One Near You)

Groceries and Consumables

– Non-perishables: Canned goods, cereals, snacks, and beverages.

– Household Items: Cleaning supplies, paper products, and personal care items.

Seasonal Items

– Holiday Decorations: Christmas trees, lights, and Halloween costumes.

– Outdoor Gear: BBQ grills, patio furniture, and garden tools.

How Much Savings Can You Get?

The primary allure of Costco liquidation stores is the potential for substantial savings.

Here’s an overview of how much you can expect to save on different categories of products:

Electronics

Electronics can often be found at 20-50% off retail prices. This includes items like televisions, laptops, and smart home devices.

The discounts can be even steeper during clearance events or special promotions.

Home Goods

Furniture and appliances are typically marked down by 30-60%. Given the high-ticket nature of these items, the savings can be significant.

For instance, a $1,000 sofa might be available for $500 or less.

Clothing and Accessories

Apparel and accessories can be discounted by 40-70%.

This makes it possible to score designer jeans, branded shirts, and stylish footwear at a fraction of their original cost.

Groceries and Consumables

Savings on groceries and consumables can vary, but you can generally expect discounts of 10-30%.

While this might not seem as dramatic as other categories, the savings add up over time, especially for bulk purchases.

Seasonal Items

Seasonal items often see the BIGGEST discounts, ranging from 50-80%.

This is because retailers aim to clear out these items quickly once the relevant season or holiday has passed.

See Also: 12 Legit Reasons Why Some Shoppers Hate Costco Wholesale

6 Tips for Shopping at Costco Liquidation Stores:

To maximize your savings and ensure a successful shopping experience at Costco liquidation stores, consider the following tips:

1. Inspect Items Carefully: Since some items may be returns or slightly damaged, always inspect them for any defects or issues.

Check electronics for functionality and examine furniture for any visible wear and tear.

2. Check Return Policies: Liquidation stores often have different return policies compared to regular retail stores, and are often FINAL SALE.

Make sure you understand the store’s policy before making a purchase, especially for high-value items.

3. Visit Frequently: Inventory at liquidation stores changes frequently.

To catch the best deals, visit regularly and keep an eye on new arrivals.

4. Be Flexible: You might not always find exactly what you’re looking for.

Be open to alternative brands or slightly different models to take advantage of the best deals.

5. Bulk Buying: If the store allows, consider buying in bulk.

This can lead to even greater savings, especially for non-perishable items and household goods.

6. Haggle: In some liquidation stores, prices might be negotiable.

Don’t hesitate to ask for a better deal, particularly if you’re buying multiple items or high-value products.

Ask the Reader: Have you found a Costco liquidation store near you? If so, how were you able to locate it…word of mouth, Google search, or something else? Let me know!

By Kyle James

Wayfair, known for its vast selection of home goods, furniture, and decor, is a go-to destination for many budget conscious shoppers. However, with the right strategies, you can transform your Wayfair shopping experience from “meh, kinda affordable” to extraordinarily budget-friendly. Here are 21 easy-to-implement savings tips to help you save big on your next Wayfair purchase.

1. Use Wayfair’s Daily Sales and Flash Deals

Wayfair offers daily sales and flash deals that can save you a substantial amount of money.

These deals often include:

– Limited-Time Offers: Discounts on a rotating selection of items, usually for 24-48 hours.

– Clearance Sales: Heavily discounted items that are being phased out to make room for new inventory.

If you pay full-price at Wayfair for anything, you need to be more patient and wait until stuff goes on sale, because it ALWAYS does.

2. Shop the Wayfair Open Box Deals

Wayfair’s Open Box section is a treasure trove of savings. These items have been returned but are in excellent condition.

Benefits of shopping open box deals include:

– Significant Discounts: Save up to 70% on items that have been opened but are still in new or like-new condition.

– Quality Assurance: Open Box items are inspected for quality before being resold.

PRO TIP

Make sure you really like it, or are savvy selling stuff on eBay, because open box deals are all final sale and not returnable.

3. Join Wayfair Professional

If you’re a business owner or professional in fields like interior design, real estate, or construction, joining Wayfair Professional can unlock even more savings.

This free membership offers:

– Exclusive Discounts: Access to special pricing and bulk discounts.

– Personalized Service: Dedicated account managers and custom order solutions.

– Early Access: Preview and purchase new products before they become available to the public.

See Also: 15 Temu Savings Hacks to Help You Save Even More

4. Abandon Your Cart on Their Website

As I’ve talked about before, Wayfair is one of the few retailers that will often send you a 10% or 20% off coupon or discount to entice you to come back and complete your purchase if you abandon your “virtual cart”.

The length of your ghosting to trigger the coupon can vary, but expect an email with a savings incentive within a day or two.

While not worth it on a small purchase, it’s definitely worth a try when buying expensive furniture.

PRO TIP

Be sure you’ve created an account with Wayfair so they have your email address on file. I’ve made the mistake of NOT doing this and the coupon to come back and complete my purchase never showed up in my inbox.

5. Stack Promo Codes and Coupons

While Wayfair doesn’t frequently offer site-wide promo codes, you can still find them through:

– Email Subscriptions: Sign up for Wayfair’s newsletter to receive special offers and coupon codes.

– Third-Party Websites: Check sites like RetailMeNot and Honey for additional promo codes.

– Wayfair’s App: Sometimes, exclusive app-only discounts are available.

PRO TIP

The best part is that you CAN stack Wayfair coupon codes on top of sitewide sales, clearance items, and Open Box deals. But keep in mind that Wayfair has many promo code brand exclusions.

6. Utilize Wayfair Registry and Save 10%

Planning a wedding or housewarming? Be sure to create a Wayfair registry to enjoy:

– Registry Completion Discount: After your event, receive a 10% discount on any remaining items on your registry via what they term the Wayfair Fulfillment Discount.

– Special Offers: You’ll also gain access to exclusive deals for registry holders which could save you up to 35%.

7. Wait for Major Sales Events

Wayfair participates in several major sales events throughout the year.

Plan your purchases around these times to maximize savings:

– Way Day: This is Wayfair’s bi-annual sales event featuring huge discounts up to 80% across all categories. It happens EVERY April and October and lasts for 2 days, mark your calendar.

– Black Friday and Cyber Monday: Significant markdowns (also up to 80% OFF) on a wide range of products.

– End-of-Season Sales: Clearance sales at the end of summer and winter.

– Labor Day and Memorial Day weekend: You’ll find deals up to 75% off the original price.

8. Check Out Wayfair’s Mobile App

Downloading the Wayfair mobile app can provide access to exclusive deals and notifications about upcoming sales. Benefits include:

– App-Only Discounts: Special promotions available only through the app.

– Price Drop Alerts: Get notified when items on your wish list go on sale.

9. Use Wayfair Financing Options

Wayfair offers financing options through partnerships with Klarna and AfterPay. These services allow you to:

– Spread Out Payments: Pay for your purchase over time with manageable monthly payments.

– Zero Interest Offers: Take advantage of interest-free financing on qualifying purchases.

See Also: Which is Better…Temu or Amazon Haul?

10. Become a Wayfair Influencer

If you have a strong online presence, consider joining Wayfair’s influencer program. Influencers can receive:

– Free Products: Opportunities to receive and review Wayfair products.

– Commission on Sales: Earn a commission for sales generated through your referral links.

11. Opt for Free Shipping

Wayfair offers free shipping on most orders over $35. Additionally, you can:

– Filter by Free Shipping: Use Wayfair’s filter options to view only items with free shipping.

– Combine Orders: Group smaller purchases to reach the free shipping threshold.

12. Follow Wayfair on Social Media

Stay updated on the latest deals by following Wayfair on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (X).

Benefits include:

– Exclusive Promotions: Access to social media-only discounts and giveaways.

– Early Sale Alerts: Be the first to know about upcoming sales and promotions.

13. Read Reviews and Compare Products

Before making a purchase, take the time to read customer reviews and compare similar products. This can help you:

– Avoid Costly Mistakes: Choose products that have high ratings and positive feedback.

– Find Better Deals: Compare prices and features to find the best value for your money.

14. DIY and Upcycling

Sometimes the best way to save is by getting creative with what you already have.

– DIY Projects: Use Wayfair items as the base for DIY projects to create custom pieces at a fraction of the cost.

– Upcycling: Repurpose and refresh old furniture and decor with new items from Wayfair.

To this end, Wayfair has created a couple excellent resources you can use for inspiration in your next DIY projects.

11 Easy At-Home DIY Projects to Try in Your Free Time – None of these look incredibly difficult and can really spruce up your home or specific room.

5 Ways to Incorporate DIY Projects Into Your Home – I love the tips that they have for taking pieces of furniture you already own and giving them an inexpensive facelift.

15. Subscribe to Wayfair’s Email Alerts

Sign up for Wayfair’s email alerts to receive notifications about sales, new arrivals, and exclusive promotions PLUS 10% off your first order.

– First to Know: Be the first to hear about upcoming sales and special offers.

– Personalized Recommendations: Receive product suggestions based on your shopping history.

See Also: All The Stores That’ll Send Out a Coupon When You Sign-Up

16. Take Advantage of Wayfair’s Assembly Services

Wayfair offers assembly services for many of its products. While this might seem like an added expense, it can save you:

– Time and Hassle: Avoid the frustration of assembling complex furniture.

– Money: Prevent potential damage that could occur during DIY assembly, which might lead to additional costs.

17. Use Wayfair’s Room Ideas and Inspiration Section

Wayfair’s Room Ideas and Inspiration section can help you find affordable decor and furniture ideas. Benefits include:

– Budget-Friendly Tips: Discover ways to style your space on a budget.

– Shopping Lists: Get curated lists of products that match the look you want to achieve.

18. Follow Seasonal Trends

Shopping for seasonal trends at the right time can save you money. Consider these trends:

– Off-Season Shopping: Buy seasonal items like patio furniture in the winter or holiday decor in January for the best deals.

– Seasonal Clearance Sales: Take advantage of end-of-season sales to stock up on items for next year.

19. Take Advantage of Free Returns

Wayfair offers free returns on most items within 30 days, which can save you money if you need to send something back.

– Check Return Policies: Ensure the item qualifies for free returns before purchasing.

– Return Promptly: Make sure to return items within the 30 day return window to avoid any fees.

20. Be Patient and Wait for the Right Time

Sometimes the best way to save is simply by waiting. Keep an eye on items you want and:

– Add to Wish List: Use Wayfair’s wish list feature to track items you’re interested in.

– Price Alerts: Set up price alerts to be notified when the price drops.

21. Sign Up for Wayfair Credit Card

One of the most straightforward ways to save at Wayfair is by signing up for the Wayfair Credit Card. This card offers various benefits:

– 5% Back in Rewards: Earn 5% back in rewards on all Wayfair purchases.

– Special Financing: Take advantage of special financing offers on orders over a certain amount, typically $500 or more.

– Exclusive Deals: Get access to exclusive cardholder-only sales and promotions.

But like any store credit card it comes with outrageously high interest rates, so only consider it if you can pay it off every month.

BONUS: Beware of the Wayfair “90% Off” Clearance Scams

It’s recently been brought to my attention that the Wayfair website is notorious for fakes and scams.

Scammers will create a website that mimics Wayfair’s and offer 90% off deals, often on furniture.

They’ll then advertise on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, especially after Christmas and other major holidays.

Shoppers will then visit the fake site, place orders with their credit cards and their stuff WILL NEVER SHOW UP.

Avoid this scam by always being aware of what ads you click on, make sure they actually redirect you to Wayfair.com and not some URL that you don’t recognize.

Better yet, don’t click on Wayfair ads and visit the site directly by typing in Wayfair.com in your browser search bar.

Ask the Reader: How do you save money when shopping at Wayfair? Any tips or hacks that I may have glossed over? Let me know, thanks.

By Kyle James