Buying in bulk is one of the first suggestions money experts make when people ask them how to save money on living expenses. The problem most people run into is that they feel buying in bulk is too expensive. While the initial price at checkout is higher, you can get double the amount of product for the price and save money to boot. In addition to fewer trips, you also get the security of knowing you’ll have enough of your most used products. Stores that offer items in bulk are a better bet than just buying larger quantities at the regular grocery store.
One thing you should do before you think buying individually is cheaper is get close to the price tag and check out the store’s price per unit. The unit price will tell you how much you’re actually getting compared to the cost of a certain measurement, usually some amount of ounces or pounds. You’ll often realize that by paying individually, you wind up forking over far more for a fraction of what you get when you buy in bulk. To help you score the best deals, this post will cover five of the products you can save the most on when you buy in bulk.
Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is the one household staple you never want to find yourself without, as we learned during the pandemic when every store seemed to run low. With bulk orders, you can guarantee there will always be a roll within reach when you need it most. Avoid purchasing smaller packs or single rolls as they will be used up quickly. This merits not only another trip to the store but additional fuel and time spent as well.
Pasta
Pasta is a highly versatile pantry staple. You can make it dozens of different ways, dress up different shapes with various sauces and turn a single box into at least two separate meals. As long as it’s kept properly, dry pasta can last on the shelf for up to two years.
Snacks
Want to add more variety to your snack cupboard? Consider signing up for a subscription snack box. You can get a mix of snacks from all different countries delivered right to your door every month, and there’s always a delicious new treat to experience from around the world. You’ll save money, cutback on mindless munching and get to discover new favorites.
Soap
Buy a commercial size bottle and refill smaller ones at home rather than rebuying over and over again. This will save time and money, and you can also avoid overusing. The same goes for laundry and dishwasher detergent.
Stationary
If you work from home or are a parent of school-aged children, head to a bulk store and buy all the supplies you tend to use the most throughout the year. This includes notebooks, pens, highlighters and paper folders. A big box could easily last you throughout the year and then some. You’ll also be grateful to never find yourself in the position of needing supplies at the last minute.