Trader Joe’s is known for their good prices, but you can save even more with these tips on how to save money at Trader Joe’s.
I make a trip to our Trader Joe’s at least once a month. I wish I could go more frequently, but with traffic, this trip can take me a half hour. For me, a trip to Trader Joe’s is like stepping into a world where everything I see looks delicious!
One of the great things about Trader Joe’s is the fact that they have such good prices anyway that I can afford to shop there, but there are ways to save even more, and here are some tips on how to save money at Trader Joe’s if you are heading there soon.
How to Save Money at Trader Joe’s
Go for the private labels. Trader Joe’s is big on them. In fact, most things in the store are private label so that they can offer the best prices. And many private label products at Trader Joe’s (and other stores, really) are made by the big name brand labels, so you are getting excellent quality for a lower price.
Use coupons for name brand items. You can get coupons, often directly from manufacturers when requested or from their email newsletter, for brand names you will find at TJ’s. You can use coupons at TJ’s for these items.
Try it before you buy it. Trader Joe’s will often let you try stuff before you buy it as well. No wasted food equals no wasted money.
Save on floral. You will find some of the best deals on flowers at Trader Joe’s compared to non-specialty grocery stores. Check out the selection there before you buy somewhere else. In addition to great prices, they often have flower varieties you won’t see at most other grocery stores.
Check out the Fearless Flyer. While this is not a coupon book for the store, it tells you about the ever-rotating items that are new at the store as well as their prices.
Buy discounted gift cards for TJ’s online before you head to the store. You won’t save a ton with this method, but it can make things super convenient, and any savings is better than no savings in my book.
Check out giveaways at Trader Joe’s. In many locations, you can get an entry into regular giveaways for Trader Joe’s gift cards if you bring your own reusable grocery bags.
Stick with staples. Cooking from scratch is always the cheapest option, and Trader Joe’s is a great place to load up on the essentials. You will find great deals on pantry staples, canned goods, and other essentials.
Check out the frozen produce. Frozen vegetables are typically cheaper than fresh, but if they don’t hold up after thawing, no one wants to eat them. Trader Joe’s frozen vegetables are amazing. They maintain the flavor and texture of fresh vegetables much better than other brands. You can stock up when you find deals and know you will have great sides ready to go in the freezer.
Special diet options. Unlike most grocery stores, Trader Joe’s carries some of their own gluten-free products, so they have some surprisingly affordable gluten-free options. They also have good prices on dairy-free milk and nut-free butters.
Skip fast food on your lunch break and swing by Trader Joe’s. While it is always cheaper to cook your own food, if you need a meal on the go, you can buy a pre-packed salad at Trader Joe’s for less than most fast food restaurants. They are much better quality too.
More Tips for Saving Money on Healthy Food:
10 Ways to Save Money on Organic Food
How to Cut Your Grocery Bill While Eating Real Food
How to Buy Whole Foods When You Are on a Limited Budget
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Cheryl says
Trader Joe’s is about a half hour drive for me. Unfortunately I have a border crossing and depending on the line up add 20 minutes to 3 hours. Wish they’d expand to Canada, I’d be shopping there lots.