With grocery prices still rising in 2025, more families are looking for ways to cut costs without cutting quality. Two of the most budget-friendly options—Aldi and Costco—are helping smart shoppers save big in just one trip. Whether you prefer Aldi’s no-frills simplicity or Costco’s bulk buying power, each store offers unique ways to stretch your grocery budget. The key is knowing what to buy, when to shop, and how to make the most of each visit. One trip to either store can stock your pantry, freezer, and fridge for less than you think. Here’s how to save serious money at Aldi or Costco with just one well-planned visit.
Buy Staples in Bulk at Costco, Save on Basics at Aldi
Costco is ideal for buying pantry staples like rice, pasta, flour, and canned goods in large quantities. The price per unit is often significantly lower than traditional grocery stores, especially on name brands. Aldi, on the other hand, offers unbeatable deals on everyday basics like bread, eggs, and milk. You’ll find generic or store-brand options that rival national brands in taste and quality. Smart shoppers stock up at Costco for long-term items, then hit Aldi for affordable weekly essentials. Combining both approaches can lower your monthly grocery bill by 20% or more.
Skip the Middle Aisles Unless It’s a Special Buy
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At Aldi, the middle aisle is home to their rotating “Aldi Finds”—limited-time products ranging from small kitchen gadgets to international snacks. While tempting, these aren’t always budget-friendly and can lead to impulse buys. The same goes for Costco’s “center court,” which features electronics, furniture, and seasonal items. Unless it’s something you planned for, these sections are best avoided. Stay focused on food and household staples to stick to your budget. One trip becomes much cheaper when you shop with a list and avoid distractions.
Take Advantage of Store Brands
Both Aldi and Costco excel when it comes to private-label products. Aldi’s brands like Simply Nature and Clancy’s offer high-quality food at a fraction of the cost of name brands. Costco’s Kirkland Signature line is beloved for delivering bulk versions of everything from olive oil to paper towels—often with better quality than the name-brand counterpart. These store-brand items consistently rank high in taste tests and customer satisfaction. Substituting even a few name-brand items for store brands can lead to instant savings. Once you find what works, you won’t miss the labels.
Plan Around the Freezer and Protein Deals
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A single Costco trip can stock your freezer for weeks. From frozen vegetables and fruits to bulk ground beef, chicken thighs, and fish, the value adds up fast. Aldi also shines in frozen options, with ready-to-cook meals and veggie-based items at low prices. Look for markdowns on meat or fish and freeze what you won’t use right away. This helps prevent waste while ensuring you always have protein on hand. Building meals from your freezer stash keeps future grocery trips smaller—and cheaper.
Compare Unit Prices, Not Just Shelf Prices
Costco usually sells in bulk, so the overall price tag might be higher, but the cost per ounce or unit is often lower. Aldi’s packaging is smaller, but still competitively priced per unit. Take a calculator or use your phone to check the price per pound, ounce, or count to make the best decision. Knowing your family’s usage habits will help you decide what’s worth buying in bulk. It’s not a deal if half of it goes to waste. Smart shopping means doing the math before you buy.
Stock Up on Non-Food Essentials
One major benefit of shopping at Costco or Aldi is saving money on household items, too. Think toilet paper, laundry detergent, trash bags, and cleaning supplies. Costco offers bulk packages with long-term value, while Aldi carries essentials at rock-bottom prices. Grabbing these during your grocery trip saves you from extra store runs later. Non-food items can quietly eat up your budget—buying them smartly can help you save big. Don’t skip these aisles when you’re looking for full-trip value.
One Trip, Big Savings
Whether you’re shopping at Aldi or Costco, one well-planned trip can save you money for the rest of the month. Focus on the staples, avoid distractions, and stick to your list. Leverage store brands, freezer deals, and bulk pricing to stretch every dollar. Both stores offer different strengths, but together, they make the perfect combo for budget-savvy shoppers. With a little planning, you’ll spend less without sacrificing quality. And that’s how one trip becomes a smarter way to shop.
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