Shoppers have some great stores to shop at when they're trying to save money on groceries.
However, not all stores have the same benefits for what you need. For example, many Aldi fans believe their store is better than Costco when it comes to shopping for food and other items.
Are they right? Check out some things Reddit users swear Aldi does better than Costco and see if you agree.
Editor's note: For the most updated information, click here.
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For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Aldi is faster
It can be daunting to wander the aisles of a large warehouse store like Costco to get everything you need, and that's after you battle through the parking lot to find a spot.
But Reddit users like the quickness and ease of a trip to Aldi. "I can get in and out of Aldi in 15 minutes," said Redditor craigzzzz.
It's cheaper
It can also be hard to get out of Costco without spending a lot of money, which can be tough if you're shopping on a budget.
"I don't think I can leave Costco without at least spending $300," said Reddit user PurduePaul.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that Costco is a bulk store, so it's important to compare pre-unit costs when looking at the prices of items at Costco and Aldi.
You don't have to buy in bulk
Costco is great if you can buy items that can be stored in a pantry or fresh items to eat quickly. But buying in bulk isn't for everyone; sometimes, you don't want or need all that extra.
"Smaller packages of everything!" said Redditor jss58, while another Reddit user posted, "We shop at Costco also, but don't have much storage space, so Aldi wins there!"
Quick tips: How to save on your grocery bill
Grocery shopping doesn't have to break the bank when you use the right strategies. Here are three quick tips for reducing food expenses:
- Buy store brands instead of name brands whenever possible.
- Always make sure to compare unit prices, not just sticker prices.
- Join your store's loyalty program so you don’t miss out on member discounts.
Even though something like choosing coupons in your grocery store app can feel like an annoying task, the savings can really add up.
Aldi doesn't have a membership fee
Costco has great deals, but most of its items can only be purchased by members.
Redditor Impressive_Milk_ said they preferred Aldi because shoppers don't need a membership.
Reddit user martphon joked that Aldi's "membership fee" was the quarter shoppers use to unlock their shopping carts at Aldi. Shoppers get the quarter back when they return their cart.
Aldi changes its stock
You may have certain items you love to see every week, but sometimes, it's nice to see unique or different choices rotate on and off the shelves.
Reddit user NotSureWhyIAsked said they like that their Aldi has new stuff every week while there's less turnover on the shelves of their local Costco.
The lines aren't bad at Aldi
Costco can be a great place to buy items in bulk, but you may face long lines when you check out, especially on the weekends.
Aldi could be a better option if you don't like the crowds or don't want to wait. "My Aldi is never overcrowded, and I rarely have to wait in line," said Redditor GingerrGina.
You have to pay for an Aldi cart
One unique thing about shopping at Aldi is that you need a quarter to unlock your cart and then get it back when you return it and lock it back up.
That's a great option if you hate dealing with random carts left in a parking lot. "Aldi parking lots aren't a disaster with random carts all over the place, unlike every Costco I've ever been to," said Redditor atmp.
Aldi is better with dietary restrictions
Some customers may have specific dietary issues or are trying to avoid certain ingredients, which could make Aldi easier to navigate.
"Gluten free? Vegan? Aldi had way more options," said Reddit user lan_mcdo.
It's better for single people and couples
Costco can be a great option when shopping for a family or a large group of people for a party, but it's not easy to buy in bulk for a smaller household.
"Shopping for one or two," said Redditor rainbowkey about why Aldi is better. "Obviously a lot of Costo quantities are only for parties or occasions."
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Aldi has good sales
Shoppers on a tight budget might appreciate a good sale or extra discounts, which is a better option at Aldi.
"Aldi does some wicked closeout sales," said Redditor Bubbly_Roof. "For example, they sold leftover holiday butterball turkeys for 69 cents a pound."
Fresh items are a better deal at Aldi
Costco can be a good spot for non-perishable pantry items, but it can be difficult to finish things like fruits or bread that you buy in bulk before they spoil.
"I go to Aldi mostly for fresh things I can't finish off in a week if I buy bulk," said Reddit user xxrachinwonderlandxx.
Shopping pro tip: This month's best deals
January is here, bringing fresh starts, clean slates, and a renewed focus on routines. As the new year kicks off, so do savings, making it the perfect time to reset your space and budget with smart seasonal buys. Look for deals on:
- Fitness gear, wellness products, and activewear
- Home organization essentials
- Cold-weather basics, like coats, boots, and cozy layers
- For grocery savings, look for seasonal produce, including citrus fruits, leafy greens, and root vegetables
With post-holiday markdowns and a shift toward fresh priorities, January is a great time to shop smart, stock up, and set the tone for a well-prepped year ahead.
Bottom line
You can find ways to take advantage of deals when trying to save money shopping, regardless of whether you think Aldi or Costco is better.
You may even find that shopping at both stores could be a good balance when it comes to keeping cash in your pocket.
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