Big box stores can be convenient for their one-stop shopping appeal. They offer a variety of products, from groceries and clothes to electronics and furniture. However, not everything they sell is a good deal or the best quality. After years of making the mistake of buying certain items at these stores, I’ve learned that it’s actually smarter to buy them elsewhere.
I’ll share 12 things that I’ve stopped buying at big box stores, and I promise you that these tips will save you money and guarantee better quality in the long run.
1. Brand Name Medications
Brand name medications can cost a fortune at big box stores. These stores often mark up the prices of these medications, making it more expensive than it needs to be.
Instead, opt for the generic versions which are just as effective but a lot cheaper. You can buy these from online pharmacies or local drug stores. For instance, instead of buying Advil, buy generic ibuprofen. Always compare the active ingredients and you’ll see that they’re the same.
2. Electronics
Big box stores are not the best places to buy electronics. They usually don’t have the biggest selection, and their prices are often higher than what you can find online.
Consider buying electronics from specialty stores or online marketplaces like Amazon or Best Buy. They often have sales and offer warranties that are better than what you’d find in a big box store. Plus, the staff at specialty stores are usually more knowledgeable about the products.
3. Books
Books at big box stores are often more expensive than those found at bookstores or online. This is because big box stores don’t specialize in selling books and therefore can’t offer competitive prices.
Instead of buying books at big box stores, try shopping at your local bookstore or online. You can find used books in great condition on sites like Amazon or eBay for a fraction of the price.
4. Craft Supplies
Craft supplies at big box stores are usually overpriced. While they might have a wide selection, you can find the same items cheaper elsewhere.
Visit your local craft store or buy supplies online. Websites like Etsy and eBay have a huge assortment of craft supplies at competitive prices. Plus, you might find unique materials that aren’t available in big box stores.
5. Baby and Kids’ Clothes
You’d think that buying baby and kids’ clothes at big box stores would save you money, but that’s not always the case. The quality of these clothes often leaves much to be desired, and they can still be quite pricey.
Instead, consider buying children’s clothes at consignment stores or online. Websites like ThredUP and Poshmark offer gently used clothes at a fraction of the cost.
6. Pet Supplies
Big box stores often sell pet supplies at a higher price than pet specialty stores or online retailers. Plus, their selection isn’t always the best.
Buy pet supplies from stores like PetSmart or online retailers like Chewy. They offer a wider variety of brands and often have better deals.
7. Furniture
Furniture from big box stores is often of lower quality and more expensive than what you can find at furniture specialty stores. They might look appealing in the store, but they often don’t last very long.
Consider buying furniture from stores that specialize in it, or even second-hand stores. You’ll get better quality and a better price.
8. Exercise Equipment
Exercise equipment from big box stores can be overpriced and not as durable as you’d like it to be.
Instead of buying this equipment from big box stores, try purchasing it from sports specialty stores or online. They often have more variety and offer better warranties.
9. High-End Cosmetics
High-end cosmetics at big box stores are often marked up significantly. Plus, the selection is usually limited.
Try buying your high-end cosmetics from department stores or online. They often have sales and provide samples that you can try before you buy.
10. Organic Produce
Organic produce at big box stores can be quite expensive. While they might offer a variety of options, the prices are often higher than what you can find at a local farmers’ market.
Consider buying your organic produce from farmers’ markets or co-ops. Not only will you get fresher produce, but you’ll also be supporting local farmers.
11. Bedding
Bedding from big box stores might not be the best quality. It might look nice in the store, but after a few washes, you might notice the colors fading or the material thinning.
Consider buying bedding from stores that specialize in home goods or online. They often have better quality items and more variety to choose from.
12. Cookware
Cookware from big box stores is often overpriced and not the best quality. You can find the same or better quality cookware at a lower price elsewhere.
Consider buying cookware from home goods stores or online. They often have sales and offer better warranties. Plus, you’ll find a wider variety of brands and styles to choose from.
So next time you’re tempted to buy these items from a big box store, remember these tips. You’ll end up saving money and getting better quality items in the long run.