Shopping at Trader Joe's
Grocery shopping can unfortunately get expensive fast these days. But if you’re a frugal shopper who love saving money without sacrificing actual quality, Trader Joe’s is a goldmine. Their stuff is cheap and many people report back that it’s also delicious. Give it a try!
Frozen Meals
Frozen meals may not be very good for you, but they’re cheap, and they can help feed your family. And to be fair, these specific frozen meals aren’t as bad for you as you might think – they often have veggies and protein in them. They’ll set you back less than $4.
Frozen Vegetables
Fresh produce wilting in the fridge is the worst, so why not try frozen veggies instead? Trader Joe’s bags of peas, broccoli, and more are cheap but still surprisingly nutritious. Toss them into stir-fries, soups, or just steam them, and find yourself saving money as you go.
Vegetarian Dishes
If you eat plant-based food to save the environment or the animals, TJ’s has surprisingly affordable vegetarian and vegan options. Their veggie burgers, chickenless strips, and meatless sausages often cost less than similar items elsewhere, but the taste is still good.
Milk and Plant-Based Alternatives
If you’re into oat, almond, or another plant-based milk, Trader Joe’s could be exactly what you’re looking for. Their milk shelf (including regular dairy milk, of course) is competitively priced versus name brands, and the quality doesn’t feel cheap. Try it and see what you think.
Snacks
If you like to eat small things between meals, try Trader Joe’s before anywhere else. It has a wide variety of snacks both sweet and savory, and there’s always something new that won’t cost the earth. You can score things like salted peanuts or chocolate bars for just a few bucks.
Prepared Meals and Salad Kits
Some nights you don’t want to cook but still want something decent – and Trader Joe’s can help you there. The company’s prepared meals and salad kits are priced well (often $5 or less), convenient, and generally better for you than takeout.
Wine
You don’t need to be mega rich to get a decent bottle of wine. Trader Joe’s wine selection includes surprisingly good options at wallet-friendly prices, including Charles Shaw Merlot for under $5. A great option if you’re having a house party.
Specialty Bread and Cheese
Want to feel a little fancy without paying fancy prices? Trader Joe’s specialty breads and cheeses can help you cosplay as rich without breaking the bank. Grab a focaccia with roasted tomato and parmesan or build a cheese board. It all goes well with the wine!
Pasta and Rice
Everyone needs to have at least some pasta and rice in their house, so why not get it from Trader Joe’s? They’re inexpensive, long-lasting, and super flexible pantry staples. A 2-pound bag of organic basmati rice for under $4 can become a base for countless meals, for example.
Canned Goods
Canned items are the unsung heroes of a frugal kitchen - or even a non-frugal one. They last a really long time, they’re ready in minutes, and more often than not they’re actually very tasty. Trader Joe’s offers everything from vegetarian options to classic soups, all at bargain prices. Keep a few on the shelf for emergency dinners.
