11 Products You Should Only Buy at Big Box Stores

October 11, 2010 - Posted to Groceries, In-Store Shopping, Online Shopping.

Big box stores have the extraordinary ability to make even seasoned shoppers weak in the knees. These wholesale behemoths hold a euphoric place in many a deal-digging heart, sharing a coveted spot with free shipping on all orders, 50-percent-off coupons and the smell of napalm -- er, savings in the morning. Why? Walk through an aisle of discount plasma TVs or half-off prescription meds and see for yourself.

While bulk buying is a major draw for big box stores like Sam's Club, Costco and BJs Wholesale, the perks of being a cardholder go beyond feeding an army. On a near-daily basis, many non-bulk items can often be found for much less than at supermarkets and retail chains. Membership fees range from $40 to $100 annually, yet the initial cost is quickly devoured by savings of 30 to 70 percent on everything from food to electronics.

For those who prefer to buy in person, SmartMoney.com recommends BJs for "it's customer service and overall atmosphere." BJs accepts manufacturer's coupons, unlike other stores. Shopping in your PJ's at home is a whole different beast, and in general, the cost and quality of products at each online store is equivalent.

Once you enter a digital or brick-and-mortar warehouse, remember to stay disciplined with a solid shopping list. You may not be looking to buy in bulk, but impulse rapidly becomes regret when you exit the store with a 20-pound jar of sunscreen. Only equatorial albinos need that level of UV protection. All tubs, vats and pallets aside, here are 11 products you should almost always buy at big box clubs, along with a spattering of things to avoid.

1. TVs
What once cost two or three grand can now be found for under $1,000. Where the clubs shine is with generous warranties and return policies.

Example: Every LCD screen from Costco and Sam's Club can be returned within 90 days for a complete refund, a full 60 days longer than major electronics stores and a month more than online outlets. For certain brands, such as Sony, Sam's Club even extends the manufacturer's warranty by two years. Sniff out an instant rebate -- some up to $500 -- and your TV will enjoy a long, happy, vivid life.

2. AA Batteries
Is there even a need to bring expiration dates into a discussion of bulk battery buying? Didn't think so.

3. Pre-Ground Coffee
Granted, this is more of a bulk-buy type item, but with the way early-morning zombies go through java, a 48-ounce canister is lucky to last several weeks. For most of the early morning undead, bulk buy loses out to the pre-ground variety for both cost and convenience. Large coffee cans cost up to 30 percent less per pound at a big box store than the local supermarket.

4. Tires
In many ways, big box stores are self-contained shopping centers: It's only a matter of time before tanning salons nestle alongside the food court. While not every location has a full-service mechanic, the trend is picking up along with in-house gas stations. All three major merchants have tire stores, but Costco offers the best overall deal.

To put things on a level, we looked at the most affordable Bridgestone tires for a 2006 Honda Civic. Most stores, including big box outlets, charged around $420 for a full set, though a few didn't include installation. From Costco, the same treads clocked in at $330, nearly $100 less. Included in the price were free shipping, mounting and tire disposal. Even when compared to standalone mechanic shops and specialists like Discount Tire Company, Costco lead the way. What's more, manufacturer rebates are almost always available when you buy four at once and most big box stores honor them.

5. Prescription Drugs
Similar to your local supermarket, nearly every wholesale club comes equipped with a full-service pharmacy. But what's the difference? An average of 50 percent on most prescription meds. Though it varies by store and location, most even let non-members fill prescriptions online or in person.

That said, some experts warn against buying supplements and vitamins from big box retailers. You won't believe how old vanilla gets after a few months of the same post-workout shakes, and some people react adversely to different vitamin brands.

6. Cell Phone Plans
Setting up or changing a cell phone plan through a big box store is much like buying a TV. The base rates are almost identical to what you'd get with a service provider, but it's the fringe benefits that make it worthwhile. Along with a convenient, hassle-free way to compare and contrast different providers -- the in-store kiosks are operated by an independent vendor, meaning no pushy salesmen -- you'll find more instant and mail-in rebate deals than anywhere else. Each major cell company offers at least one free smartphone with a new plan, plus the store usually includes a free accessory kit just for doing business through them.

7. Milk
Although the average shopper can save more by carefully scoping sales at the local grocery store, milk is one of the few non-bulk food items that's nearly always cheaper at a club. A gallon will typically cost $1.50 less, even organic varieties. Combine these prices with coupons and watch the price drop until it's udder-ly unbelievable. And that's no laughing matter.

8. Alcohol
Several money-savvy sites have made an unexpected discovery at big box stores: They carry a wine and beer selection on par with some of the finest restaurants and brewpubs. Most brands and varieties can be found for 20-percent less than at liquor stores or supermarkets. You'll need to check local laws, but some states' allow anyone of legal age to buy from warehouse clubs; cardholder or not.

The real winners, however, are high-end spirit connoisseurs. Bottles regularly priced over $150 can be found for 30- to 50-percent off the going rate. If you're looking to splurge on Bordeaux for your next suave get-together, visit a big box retailer and use your extra cash to indulge in a decadent main course instead.

9. Quality Meat
What's better than butcher-quality meat at a wholesale price? For avid carnivores...not much. If you hit up a local store, there's no pressure to buy in bulk and most carry the same selection as premium supermarkets, from seafood and sausage to filet mignon and roast chicken.

Buying online is a slightly different story, similar to mail-order meat providers. BJs, Costco and Sams Club all have an online ordering and distribution service for certain meats. Most orders come with free shipping and the prices are comparable to specialized delivery companies. Don't be shocked by costs above $100: You're still buying in bulk. Order only if you plan on throwing a gourmet bash or have plenty of room cleared in the freezer.

10. Pet Food
Cat, dog, dry, canned -- it doesn't much matter when it comes to pet food. With the exception of occasional sales at Walmart, you're almost guaranteed to snag a better deal for your four-legged significant other at warehouse stores. Plus, it's already cheaper to buy pet food in bulk: The per pound cost of a 44-pound bag of Iams dry dog food is 26 cents less than the 17.5-pound one. Buying from a big box store knocks it down another 15 to 20 percent, saving you enough to buy Fido a frisbee.

11. Gas
Filling up at your local club can be anywhere from 5 to 10 cents cheaper per gallon than gas stations in the area, provided it has pumps. That said, be judicious and pay special attention to dips or jumps in gas prices. When the cost of a gallon falls, big box stores reap the benefits. Gas prices nationwide are relatively stable at the moment, but it pays to be cautious.

A FEW TO AVOID

12. Pasta
Pasta is an oft-used, already inexpensive commodity, which puts warehouse prices about even with those at a supermarket. Plus, pasta crafters offer regular discounts. With some grocery coupons you should be able to find a buck off a bag or box.

13. Large Frozen Foods
As mentioned earlier with mail-order meats, storage is a stumbling block for mounds of frozen food. Do you really have a place to keep 12 frozen pizzas, 80 pot stickers and 150 jalapeno poppers? Didn't think so.

14. Toilet Paper
It seems counter-intuitive, yet with the exception of large households, buying toilet paper in bulk doesn't save money. In fact, it can be up to 10 cents more per roll than buying reasonably-sized supplies elsewhere. For singles or those living in small apartments, there's simply no room or need for 36 rolls.

Photo by: Thomas Hawk

Whoops, make that "bag" of bacon bits.

Posted November 4, 2010 by Amy Alkon

Costco has great roast chickens for $4.99. They also have a big back of real bacon bits for...maybe $7.99. And for somebody like me who doesn't cook (I heat) they have some good deals on roasts and other meat you just heat for a few minutes in the microwave. Love the place.

Posted November 4, 2010 by Amy Alkon

Some of my faves: Big barrels of snacks for school, bagged fresh spinach, sugar, cryo-wrapped meats like ham and lamb, butter, picnic paper goods, frozen meatballs, #10 cans of anything (great for make ahead meals, potlucks), roaster chicken. Laptop return policy is awesome, same as TV's at SAMs. Soda prices are always higher than grocery store sales Salad lettuce is typically gone bad at least 5 days prior to their expiration date, so only a good deal if you're eating a lot asap.

Posted October 28, 2010 by Michelle

I have found many OTC to be outdated at Costco's. I have found some good purchases, but am very careful when I purchase meat and OTC stuff -- check your dates always at Costco's......

Posted October 17, 2010 by Robert

Luves Diapers at BJ's is a lot cheaper, and if you have the $5.00 off store coupon plus any other coupon to use with the bj's coupons - it's a GREAT deal

Posted October 17, 2010 by Julia's mom

Some may think it is preposterous to buy Pet Food at Costco, if you read the label you will find it is the opposite. I started buying my pet food here years ago after being sticker shocked every month from buying IAMS. Costco has two dog foods where the first ingredient is a meat, not a meat by product. So stop laughing and try it out.

Posted October 15, 2010 by Proud pet owner

BJ's in Orlando is having a free 90 trail. So thats thru the holidays. that alone will save some money.

Posted October 15, 2010 by NANCY

Stefanie said: "Organic Milk. It's a minimum of $4.50 a quart at the grocery store, and the expiration date is always within 2 weeks of the current date." Where do you normally get your organic milk, 7-Eleven? Maybe you mean $4.50 per half gallon? It is cheaper to buy the 3-pack of half gallons at CostCo, but most supermarkets do have a store-brand of organic milk now, usually under $4/half gallon. As to the expiration date, except for Trader Joe's store brand, I have only seen UHT (the kind that typically good for 6 weeks in the fridge) at supermarkets. For some reason Trader Joe's doesn't do that for their milk - maybe they think it's more natural?

Posted October 14, 2010 by Cy_Guy

I just had to get new tires on my car and was told to go to CostCo for a good deal and I even considered buying a membership, until I realized it would cost me more money for crappier tires with the same guarantee. The car dealer sent me to a local shop that was wonderful and local and treated me like a person not someone on an assembly line. I think big box stores are the pit of hell (how are they at all enjoyable to shop at???) and I know I can save more money elsewhere. Unless you have a large family it's not worth it.

Posted October 14, 2010 by April

I don't find the big-box stores worth it. They entice you to buy more and the gas and waste of resources driving to these places is not worth the membership. Buy online for tires and larger items.

Posted October 14, 2010 by Steve Zussino

In my area milk is always cheapest at the gas station. It is a constant loss leader.

Posted October 14, 2010 by Ted

I always buy bulk frozen goods at Costco. We bought a cheap, used refrigerator/freezer to keep in the garage as the "beer fridge" for our overstocked bulk goods. That way we can buy the 100 pack of Bagel Bites and those yummy Mystic Pizzas and not have to worry about the storage space for it. Also, buying beer 24 bottles at a time saves a TON - Newcastle at Costco runs for well under $1 per bottle.

Posted October 14, 2010 by Double D

I think the claim on the toilet paper is not completely fair or accurate. On a per roll basis, sure it seems more expensive, but when you compare the actual quantity of usable toilet paper on each of those rolls, I have yet to see anything cheaper unless you are a "coupon ninja" with the sale, the mfr. coupon, and a store coupon to use all at once.

Posted October 14, 2010 by CH

My fiance and I always buy bags of frozen fruit for our smoothies at Sam's Club. You get about 2.5 times as much for the same cost as the small bags at our local grocery store. Since we make smoothies for breakfast nearly every day it's the only way to go.

Posted October 13, 2010 by Jonathan A.

Yes, because exactly what I want is the kid they just pulled out of the frozen food working on my car. Independent tire dealers can nearly leverage the price that Costco can, and moreover they benefit from offering the experience and knowledge to fit the right product to your vehicle and driving needs and to install it properly. This blind focus on price and rebates over quality and experience is exactly what is wrong with our economy. I'm pretty sure we can't all get jobs as Walmart greeters, but keep voting with your dollars to push local businesses out for the lowest common denominator and see how that works out.

Posted October 13, 2010 by Shaughn P

Organic Milk. It's a minimum of $4.50 a quart at the grocery store, and the expiration date is always within 2 weeks of the current date. At Costco, organic milk is going to $8.50 for three quarts, and the expiration on the milk I bought on Monday is not until November 19. Frozen mixed Veggies: They are higher quality than at the grocery store (at least in my area in Des Moines, IA), and way cheaper per lb. I buy a ginat bag, and it takes us about a month to go through it. I don't buy frozen veggies anywhere else. Veggie Trays/Fruit Trays: No way you will find anything even close to Costco prices on prepped food. I would estimate over 50% less.

Posted October 13, 2010 by Stefanie

Diapers are a must buy at warehouse stores (for those of you with little ones).

Posted October 13, 2010 by D B Cooper

Frozen food? It depends. If I really really want it and it's a good deal, I will find room. I can most definitely find room to store a gazillion frozen potstickers... or raspberries... and I once got a great deal on an insanely large package of dried shiitake mushrooms. Eggs are another item that almost always costs less at Costco, and, often, digital media.

Posted October 13, 2010 by Elizabeth Able

Invariably, milk I've bought from Costco has spoiled before the "sell by" date.

Posted October 13, 2010 by Sam

Who says 150 jalapeno poppers is a lot? But seriously, the size of the family you are feeding can make "large" quantities routine quite quickly, but the higher temptation cost of going to Costco for milk as fast as we go through it makes it more practical to pay a little more at the grocery store for it.

Posted October 13, 2010 by Jeliza

big containers of benefiber!

Posted October 13, 2010 by Zak

Milk is 99 cents a gallon at my local Wal-Mart and over 2 bucks at Costco, not to mention the quality of Costco milk is much lower than Wal-Mart's milk.

Posted October 13, 2010 by David

We have 5 kids, 3 of them teenagers. We bought a freezer specifically to store frozen meats and pizzas and veggies. And, yes, we buy the 45(!) roll toilet paper from Costco. It's better that the stuff it's priced equivalently to at the grocery store. It may not be the *cheapest*, but it's the best value.

Posted October 13, 2010 by Rob K

pet food? really? not if you want anything quality, that has limited ingredients, or that makes sense for what a dog would eat in nature. local pet food stores=only place we'll buy pet food. costco, though, for everything else.

Posted October 13, 2010 by kai

Frozen foods... I buy a ton of them. IQF frozen veggies and fruit specifically. Occasional Ice Cream bars etc. Costco is almost always cheaper than regular grocery prices, not counting sales.

Posted October 13, 2010 by Ed S

large frozen foods are a big deal when you're feeding that awful swill to your family.

Posted October 13, 2010 by Joe P.

"Do you really have a place to keep 12 frozen pizzas, 80 pot stickers and 150 jalapeno poppers?" Maybe. I try to buy bulk foods so that I don't have to go shopping multiple times in a month. On average, are large frozen foods a deal if you plan on storing them?

Posted October 13, 2010 by Wally Strong

A gallon of 2% milk is a whopping $0.05 cheaper at our local Costco. Not much of a savings there!

Posted October 13, 2010 by Hirayuki

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