5 Tips for Shopping at the 99 Cent Store

1.  Find the Healthier Items:  Stores get different items in throughout the year.  While there are a lot of junk foods there, you can still find some healthier options.  In my opinion, even these healthier options are on the junkier side (whole and homemade foods usually being the best), but you can score some good finds that are perfect for days when you are out and about.  In my recent trip I got pretzels (which are there quite often), organic cheese crackers (for my dairy tolerant kid), applesauce pouches (I would prefer organic, but for every once in a while I'll get this), Honest Organic Juice, yogurt covered raisins and regular raisins.  There is usually a good selection of dried fruit and occasionally some granola bars that are not entirely sugar laden.  This is the perfect example of snacks I would stock up on for a family trip, as mentioned in my post "A Frugal Family's Path to Disneyland."

2.  Be on the Lookout for Name Brands and Better Quality Items:  You typically won't find great quality items, but occasionally some sneak in.  This week I found a pack of Hanes girls underwear, and sunglasses and tights of brands you will find at some big retailers.  You also can't go wrong with things like flip flops.  I like to get these for my kids to wear to the pool or beach.  I stocked up on a few sizes!  I also found my favorite kids flossers there.  Watch out though - a few weeks ago I got a pack of 60 plain white flossers, while these are only a pack of 30.  This brings me to my next tip.

3.   Read Labels Carefully!:  Something my look like a better deal, but if you look at the quantity you are getting, that may not be the case.  Take note of how much product you are actually getting to see if it is comparable to what you get at a grocery store.  Also note the expiration dates!  Sometimes items end up at the 99 Cent store because they are close to expiring.  If you are going to use them right away, go for it.

4. Shop the 99 Cent Store First, Before You Head to the Grocery Store:  This is important, especially if you do not use coupons or if you are on a little hiatus from couponing. I just finished such a hiatus and am glad to be back in the swing of things.  It was so nice to score some deals on things like toothpaste and flossers before I headed to the grocery store.  Discover what your 99 Cent store staples are.  One of my staples is band aids.  My kids go through band aids like crazy!  They love these animal print ones.  I also like stocking up on dried beans and veggie pasta. You could most likely find just as good if not better deal on dried beans at a store that sells bulk items, but these are good in a pinch. 

5.  Don't Forget Your Party Supplies:  Planning a party?  Wrapping a gift?  Shop here first for these items.  I don't think I've bought a gift bag in a long time because I keep recycling them, but if you do need one, don't pay over a dollar!  I was able to stock up on some party favors for a birthday party.

Did I mention they often have Disney items?!  I grabbed these items to add to my Disney swag bags - a collection of a few things I'm getting on the cheap to avoid the high priced gift shops at Disneyland.

I leave you with some other finds.  What are some of your best finds?