Discount Stores

Let us not underestimate the savings of simply shopping at the lower cost stores. I get so wrapped up in shopping with coupons nowadays that I sometimes forget that there are equal and sometimes lower prices when I shop at stores like Dollar General, Dollar Tree, or Big Lots. So, this post is not so much about coupons as it is about savings.

I stopped by my local Dollar General last night while waiting for our Chinese food pick-up, and found many items marked down in their clearance section. All of their summer items are SUPER cheap at cents to dollars. To give you an idea of what you can expect, we found a butterfly net for $.30 (great for our Fall nature walks), shaded swimming pool for $1.25, and lots more beach toys, swimming vests, etc. for similar prices. If you like to shop at the end of the season for items to use next year, you'll want to check out Dollar General.

Dollar General will accept 1 coupon per item, whether it be a Manufacturer coupon or Store coupon issued in weekly fliers. They will not stack coupons.


Believe it or not, my first job was at Dollar Tree! The pay was higher than minimum wage, so what 16-year-old wouldn't want to work there?! You'll notice when you walk into Dollar Tree stores, there are signs EVERYWHERE telling you that everything is $1.00. Despite massive signage, I still had multiple people ask me daily if everything is $1.00. So, for all of you doubters out there, yes, everything is still $1.00. :) In fact, some items like candy bars and gum are 2/$1.00. Oh, the beauty of cheap! You may not all know that this is a great store to purchase generic plastic bags, gift bags, partyware, holiday decor, and general cheap kids toys. I don't know that I would recommend purchasing the food though... not sure how long it took since packaging to make it to the store.

Dollar Tree does NOT accept coupons of any kind.


Big Lots is another one of my favorite discount stores. You never know what you might find when you go! We've purchased bunkbeds, school items, cookware, toys, sheets, and more. We used to live very close to a Big Lots and I would frequent it on weekly basis, but now it's a bit of a drive. I like to get holiday decor and gift packaging here as they always have unique items.

I am unsure of Big Lots coupon policy. Does anyone know?
**UPDATE: Thanks to Shynea at Penny Pinching Diva - Big Lots does accept 1 manufacturer coupon (non-printable) per item. Check with your local Big Lots store for any exceptions.**