Trader Joe’s continues to lead the way in affordable groceries. No wonder they have a cult following, always eager to grab those marked-down prices!
Their inexpensive, unique products and strong branding appeal to the public. Once you become a Trader Joe’s shopper there’s no going back.
Saving money is the order of the day when shopping, especially in recent times. Prices have gone up quite a bit since the pandemic as resources have gotten scarce and demand has gone up.
Whether you are a frequent shopper at Trader Joe’s or just started shopping there, you’ll want to know the following hacks to make the most out of your TJ’s experience.
8. Get the Fearless Flyer
If you want to know the new seasonal items coming up throughout the year, subscribe to Trader Joe’s Fearless Flyer. It’s an entertaining booklet and newsletter all in one.
Along with corny entertainment, you’ll be in the know about the items coming and can successfully plan your meals. The Fearless Flyer is a must-have for anyone who frequently shops at Trader Joe’s. And guess what — it’s free!
7. Purchase the Staple Signature Items
The majority of Trader Joe’s times are signature to their brand and are absolutely irresistible. The draw here is these items are top quality at impressively low prices. Their brand is economical for purchasing your weekly staples, in addition to getting new treats.
Some signature items we recommend getting include the Everything but the Bagel seasoning, Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups and Asparagus Risotto. As for their tasty adult beverages, their Two Buck Chuck bottle of wine is a must if you are looking for a cheap option.
6. Have Your Own TJ’s Reusable Bag
You have the option to buy paper or reusable Trader Joe’s bag at check-out. In recent times several US cities decrease their usage of single-use plastic bags to protect the environment.
Retail locations in various states make you pay for their bags paper or plastic bags. So when you purchase reusable bags you will save the environment and your hard-earned money.
5. Know Their Shipment Schedule
All Trader Joe’s locations are different, so take inventory to see what’s available at your closest location at certain times of the day or week. The retail giant has a large and loyal following, so find out what days your favorite items will arrive to avoid disappointment.
Shoppers generally grab the best and cheapest products fast. As you develop relationships with staff, find out from them when shipments will arrive. Bear in mind that some of the stores are small, so avoid peak hour shopping when the stores are crowded.
4. Favorite Frozen Foods
The frozen food selection at TJ’s is where you will save money. You will also enjoy some delicious side dishes, main courses, or salivating treats.
Get their meatballs for your dinner menu or those persons on the go. Add their cauliflower gnocchi to it or have it separate for a healthy, inexpensive, delicious dish.
You also should never leave without their deliciously glaze orange chicken that goes well with their frozen jasmine rice. And we must not forget about Trader Joe’s frozen desserts. They carry many delicious options vegan and non-vegan that will always satisfy your sweet tooth.
3. Be Picky When Buying Produce
There is an exception to everything. Trader Joe’s produce can certainly miss the mark at times. Their produce is typically fresh, organic and inexpensive which may explain why they don’t last as long as the produce from other stores.
When it comes to fruit and veggies, their bananas and spinach are safe choices. They also sell bags of tiny avocados for a great price and they will last a long time when stored in the fridge. So the hack here is to purchase bulk produce from other stores such as Vons or Albertsons. TJ’s is great for everything else!
2. Enjoy Their Generous Return Policy
Get off the fence if you are not yet a member of the Trader Joe’s customer family. Thanks to their popular return policy, customers can always try new and exciting foods.
You can return any food item and receive a 100% refund! And the policy includes returning items that have already been open.
TJ’s management policy is to please customers. They help ensure that you find something you like. So be adventurous and try unique products that spice up your kitchen and surprise the family.
If you don’t like it, you get your refund and get something else. There is always something for every taste, any time of the day — breakfast, lunch or dinner.
1. Have a Shopping List Ready
Trader Joe’s items are inexpensive but very enticing. You can easily get carried away and waste your time packing up your cart with things you don’t want or need.
Yes, you can take advantage of their generous return policy, but you want to be responsible and stay within your budget. Don’t waste money buying what you don’t feel like trekking back to town for a return.
So have the items you need ready on your list and try to stick to them. You’ll save time and money and get out of the store in an efficient manner.
Happy shopping!
Shopping hacks are necessary to help shoppers get the best of what their community store has to offer. You want to get the best for less, right? So head over to your local Trader Joe’s and keep these hacks in mind.
