15 Incredibly Common Mistakes People Make at Trader Joe’s

It can be difficult to stick to a budget during a trip to the grocery store. This can be especially true for stores like Trader Joe’s, where there are so many flavors and interesting items to try.

The good news is that there’s a bevy of genius hacks for Trader Joe's shoppers to help them avoid a steep grocery bill.

Avoid these 15 common mistakes made at TJ’s to keep your wallet intact.

One of the biggest mistakes people make at Trader Joe’s is trusting the low prices and going in blind. Instead, you should develop a budget or a shopping list to try and stick to.

$4 freezer meals and 23-cent bananas are a great deal but can add up if you start mindlessly tossing items in the cart.

Often, Trader Joe’s will place employees on the sales floor to offer free samples of their products to shoppers.

While many people breeze by these tables, stopping to taste the product could alert you to new product rollouts, or avoid buying something new you end up not liking at home.

Fun fact: If you ask for a sample of almost any product in Trader Joe’s, a crew member will let you try it.

This can save you quite a bit of money on items that you are on the fence about.

Trader Joe’s sells really great dupes of dozens of products — like Honey Nut Cheerios and Oreos — branded under their own label.

If you have a favorite brand-name snack or condiment, there’s a chance Trader Joe’s has made a similar knockoff that’s better for your health — and your wallet.

At Trader Joe’s, approaching a crew member with questions and thoughts can really help you navigate the shopping experience.

Each one has a unique perspective to offer, a little insight on your shopping cart, or a hidden gem they would recommend.

Did you know that Trader Joe’s has a generous return policy? If you don’t like an item you purchased from them, simply take it with your receipt back to the store, and in most reasonable cases, they will refund you for the product.

This is perfect for when you’re curious about cost-effective skincare or seasonal coffee options but just aren’t happy with the taste or results.

Trader Joe’s introduced the first reusable shopping bag in 1977 and now charges 10 cents for every paper bag used.

Save money – and the planet – by bringing reusable bags.

Trader Joe’s commitment to health-conscious foods at affordable prices has made it a great spot to nab pantry staples.

Choose from an array of shelf-stable flours, sugars, cooking oils, whole grains, olives, canned goods, and more at everyday prices that are, frankly, way more affordable than many grocers.

Trader Joe’s doesn’t offer coupons and isn’t known for sales or discounts. While most of the store is populated with Trader Joe’s-branded items, there are still a few items they sell from other brands.

Feel free to bring applicable vendor coupons to the store to get even more savings on their low, everyday prices.

Trader Joe’s has a pretty extensive alcohol offering, including an impressive stock of original and sourced wines.

Keep your eyes on affordable prices on Trader Joe’s branded options like ciders and wine. If you’re in a city with a designated Trader Joe’s alcohol storefront, consider yourself a VIP.

This is true for anywhere you go, but shopping hungry is a horrible idea.

Trader Joe’s is known for their snack items and unique, internationally-inspired meals that will really be calling your name if you head into the store with an empty stomach.

Trader Joe’s has worked hard to develop skincare options that focus on organic and sustainable ingredients. And since they’re developed in-house, you reap the benefit of amazing prices.

Where else can you get a high-quality, $9 SPF40 Daily Facial Sunscreen or a sweet-smelling rose water facial toner for just $4?

The cash wrap has a bevy of mints, chocolates, small gifts, candies, and more. If you aren’t careful, you can end up with a dozen extra items at the cash wrap alone.

Purchasing things you don’t need is more common if you have people behind you in line and you rush through your decisions.

Trader Joe’s Fearless Flyer is a monthly shopping booklet that gives readers tips on upcoming deals, steals, recipes, and more.

Looking for a new meal to try with the family? Need a fun recipe for your next potluck or a list of seasonal items to try? The Fearless Flyer is your go-to guide for all things TJ’s

If you didn’t know Trader Joe’s had a podcast, you aren’t the only one. There are monthly rollouts, with episodes that discuss seasonal items, upcoming offerings, product taste tests, and more.

The behind-the-scenes content from the brand directly will get you info on limited-edition items before all the influencers can buy them out.

Trader Joe’s is a great option when you want to save money on essentials. Just make sure you’re shopping mindfully while you’re there, and browse online for honest product reviews so you’re not buying things you’ll end up tossing out in the end.