5 Tips for Aldi Shopping

So you've never been to Aldi? There are a few unique elements about the store, but don't let that discourage you from shopping there. Here are my 5 tips for the Aldi beginner:

1. Before you can enjoy your shopping spree, you need to remember a quarter for your grocery cart. I keep one permanently in my cup holder since I forget it so frequently. Take it with you to the cart, insert the coin into the slot, and the chain should go free. When you are finished, unload your groceries, take your cart back up to the store, connect the chain and receive your quarter back. This reduces Aldi's need for cart collectors and the quarter incentivizes customers to bring carts back.

2. Save those swag bags from your conferences and fairs. Aldi is all about that green life! I collect plastic bags from other stores and stuff them into the tote bags to reuse them for Aldi. Keep those bags in the car and then take them into the store with you. Since it's winter, I try to pack my bags inside. Aldi does not bag the items - that will be up to you! It's not too bad, I promise.

3. Be savvy. Be decisive. If you see an item, don't second guess yourself. When they say, "Here today, gone tomorrow!" they mean it. Most of the seasonal or special finds won't be back around. I rarely find their brands anywhere else. Make sure to use their website to see what is upcoming. Most of those non-consumable items are pure genius (mini trash can for car, straw cleaner brush, etc..). Everything at Aldi has an amazing price tag so don't let your conscious fool you, you're getting a great deal! You would be spending more else where. 

4. The cashiers are very quick but can be careless sometimes with placing items in the cart. Leave your delicate items like bread and eggs for last on the belt to ensure they aren't crushed.

5. Do not let the whole "generic" outlook on Aldi fool you. Most of their products are the same quality, if not better than any other name brand. A good majority of their products are imported from Germany and other European countries. I just bought a face wash this week made in Luxembourg! Next time you go, look to see where their products are made.