12 Summer Dollar Tree Finds Over $1.25 That Are Worth It (And What to Skip)

Once known as a literal dollar store, Dollar Tree has seemingly abandoned the $1 pricing strategy. While shoppers were quick to accept the quarter increase to $1.25, the discount retailer didn't stop there. The newer "dollar plus" system means you could pay $3, $5, or more.

Even though Dollar Tree's prices have increased, we still found plenty of over-$1.25 bargains that make it easy to avoid wasting money this summer. From bold beach towels to cute Crocs copycats, here are 12 items that are worth the added cost (and a few that aren't).

Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

Price: $1.50

Give your kitchen a mini makeover without breaking the bank. This adorable (and at $1.50, affordable) find features a whimsical watermelon print that's perfect for the summer. The 12-by-18-inch mat is more than just decor. Absorbent material will soak up water, keeping your counter clean and dry.

Price: $6

Celebrate the summer and set the stage for parties and other outdoor events. We spotted this sweet drink dispenser and four-cup set for $6 in Dollar Tree's seasonal section.

Choose from a green and pink watermelon print or a yellow lemon wedge pattern. Kohl's sells a similar beverage dispenser (minus the cups) for $8.

Price: $1.50

Organize your outdoor gear with this genius gadget. The space-saving solution makes it easy to store everything from rakes and shovels to cleaning supplies.

What do shoppers think? One Dollar Tree customer raved, "They are well worth it, I put one in my laundry room to hold the mop, broom, and hang the dustpan."

Price: $5

Add a fun, festive, and fabulously funky touch to your home's outdoor entertaining area or decorate for a summer luau. This four-foot inflatable palm tree is sure to get a giggle from your party guests.

Price: $1.50

Pass on plain cups and nab this color-changing summer-themed tumbler (straw and lid included) before it's gone. One Dollar Tree customer gushed in a five-star review, "I bought this for an event and it was the highlight of the party!" The BPA-free bargain buy is available in green, yellow, purple, and orange hues.

Price: $1.50

Set the table for summer parties and backyard barbecues. We found this 30-count of seasonal strawberry-themed napkins for $1.50. Don't assume you'll get a better deal online. Amazon sells a similar style (20-pack) for $6.19.

Price: $1.50

Nothing screams summer like icy cold popsicles. And this 12-pack of paper plates features the chilly design. Swap dull disposables for this seasonal style without sacrificing quality for cost. Priced at $1.50, this deal is a must-have steal.

Price: $5

Pool and beach season is finally here. If last year's towels have seen better days, nab a few of these 30-by-60-inch stunners.

Even though this pick costs more than $1.25, it's still less than what you could pay elsewhere. Macy's sells a slightly larger 40-by-70-inch beach towel for over $19.

Price: $6

Fill this 17.5-by-13-by-26-inch oval tub with cold drinks at your next barbecue or use it to store your family's summer gear (think towels, flip-flops, sports equipment). Choose from teal, royal blue, red, and sage green — or, for the low price of $6 each, pick up a few.

Price: $1.50

Score these non-binding, lightweight, cushioned size men's 6-12 crews for $1.50.

Not sure about diabetic socks from a dollar store? Take it from this Dollar Tree customer: "These are the best diabetic socks ever. There is no one out there that can make a more comfortable, fitting, working diabetic sock."

Price: $6

This Croc copycat is a summer value that deserves a spot in your cart. The causal shoes feature a comfortable, breathable design that's perfect for the pool, the beach, or a walk around town.

Get this budget-friendly bargain for $6. In comparison, Crocs Classic Clogs cost $49.99 (on the brand's website).

Price: $3

Display precious summer memories in this bold beaded four-by-six-inch frame. Even though the interior accent is more than Dollar Tree's usual $1.25 price, the beachy-chic item is an on-trend accent that looks like it came from a pricey high-end store.

Price: $6

Snacks are a summer road trip staple. But this take-and-tote treat box isn't worth the extra few dollars. We found a similar item from Cook With Color at Walmart for $4.48.

Price: $5

Dollar Tree has a sizable stock of single and triple-wick candles for the same price (or less) as this artificial option.

Instead of wasting your money on this plastic pick, splurge on one of the store's more sophisticated scented glass jar styles. The faux glow LED pillar just doesn't have the same high-end vibe as the real deal.

Price: $5

The $5 price tag for this 12-piece pack isn't the value you expect from a dollar store. Aldi sells an almost identical sweet frozen treat from the retailer's Sundae Shoppe brand for $3.25.

Whether you're planning a backyard barbecue, headed to the pool, or celebrating the season with a summer soirée, our handpicked list of "dollar plus" deals is a smart shopping guide that can help you to separate deals from don'ts.

How can you offset the added cost of these pricier Dollar Tree picks? Choose your payment method wisely and use the best cash back credit cards to earn points, perks, or other valuable rewards on eligible purchases.