Hidden Ways to Save at Aldi, Walmart, and Other Discount Stores

Saving a lot of money at the grocery store may sound like extreme couponing or another time-consuming strategy. Instead, it’s just a few ideas to be mindful of when planning your grocery shopping, regardless of which store you prefer to visit.

Here are a few easy ways to save:

• Know the store’s markdown schedule: Each store has specific days when it will mark down certain items. Additionally, clearance items are usually marked before the store opens, so showing up early could pay off. It could be helpful to speak with a manager to see if you can get more information.

• Focus on per unit pricing: If you look closely at the price tag, you should find a second number that details how much an item is by weight or contents. If you’re at a store that has 15 ketchup options, compare that number across the products to find the best deal. 

• Use price matching to your advantage: If the store you shop at has an online shopping option, take the time to price-match in store. If the item is cheaper online, you may be able to get it reduced.

• Download the store’s app: Many discount grocery stores have exclusive app-only deals and digital coupons available. Before you run out the door, it’s worth checking to see if you can save a few bucks on items you’re already planning on purchasing.

  • Also to consider - Upside is an app where you can earn valuable cash back on what you buy on your next grocery store run.

• Sign up for alerts: Some stores offer discounts and alerts to customers who sign up for email or text alerts. If it ever become annoying, you can always unsubscribe from them.

Aldi has become the outright leader for shoppers looking to save money. The brand’s no-frills shopping approach and modest employee count at each store keeps costs and prices low.

If you choose to shop at Aldi, here are a few ways to save even more.

• Bring your own bags and a quarter: The store uses quarters to unlock its grocery carts, so keep some change in your car for your next visit. Additionally, keep a few reusable bags in your car as Aldi doesn’t offer disposable bags. Or, you can use the boxes that employees regularly collect throughout the store.

• Look for red sticker markdowns: There are sometimes red sticker markdowns throughout the store. These aren’t announced, but are typically on perishable food items like meat and dairy. However, the best day to shop at Aldi is likely Wednesday or Sunday as they roll out new products to their Aldi Finds aisle.

• Watch for Aldi’s “Twice as Nice” guarantee: If you’re displeased with any Aldi product, you may be able to get a refund AND get it refunded. You will need to keep the receipt and speak to a manager.

Walmart has several ways to stretch your dollars even further.

• Check the clearance sections at the back of departments: When you walk into a Walmart, you’ll see tons of items that are on sale. However, the real deals are in the clearance section. back of the store.

• Use the Walmart app’s barcode scanner: As you’re putting items in your cart, take a moment to use the Walmart app to see if the item is cheaper online. At checkout, they will price-match it.

• Buy online, pick up in store: If you value convenience and don’t feel the need to go in-store, consider just shopping online and picking it up in store. This is an easy way to compare Walmart’s prices to other stores in the area.

• Also consider checking Instacart as well. You may be able to score a promotion making your groceries cheaper, and delivered right to your door.