12 Dollar Tree Food Items That Are Totally Overpriced

Dollar Tree is a convenient stop for many bargain shoppers looking for a deal, and that includes saving money on groceries by shopping this store’s selection of foods. This value store has even started including items up to $5 for frozen meals, specialty brands, and more.

But you may be surprised to find out that some of these “affordable” items are actually cheaper elsewhere. Don’t let the allure of $1.25 fool you into spending more than you need to.

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

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1. Junior Mints

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Price: $1.25

While this may seem like a good deal, you can easily find a box of your favorite movie candies elsewhere for just $1 per box.

Dollar Tree has a ton of snack-sized boxes of your favorite treats, like these Junior Mints, but Dollar General has them for $0.25 less. That means you can stock up and save when you buy this candy elsewhere.

2. Blue Bunny Vanilla Mini Swirls

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Price: $5.00

These bite-sized frozen treats actually cost more if you buy them at Dollar Tree.

Blue Bunny Vanilla Mini Swirls cost $4.47 at Walmart for the same exact flavor and eight-count box. Satisfy your sweet cravings while saving when you buy these miniature cones during your next Walmart run.

3. Gatorade Propel Fitness Water

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Price: $2.25

You can get a 20-ounce bottle of electrolyte water from Dollar Tree or spend less by buying at Walmart instead.

This fitness water has a delicious grape flavor and no sugar, but it costs $2.25 at Dollar Tree. In comparison, this same bottle and beverage from Walmart is just $2.08, and it still has the electrolytes you need to stay hydrated.

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4. Winter Blend Broccoli and Cauliflower Frozen Veggies

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Price: $1.25

Adding veggies to your meals should be affordable and tasty like these frozen broccoli and cauliflower stems.

At Dollar Tree, this veggie mix costs $1.25, but the same 12-ounce bag from Walmart is just $1.16. Plus, you can steam the Walmart veggies in the bag to save time and money.

5. Gold Medal Bakery Hamburger Buns

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Price: $1.50

Every little bit of savings counts, especially if you’re throwing a barbecue or hosting a cookout.

These hamburger buns cost $1.50 at Dollar Tree, but for pennies less, you get eight hamburger buns from Walmart instead. Savings from Walmart’s $1.46 bag can add up, so those savings go toward condiments, sides, and other party dishes.

6. Ben & Jerry’s Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream

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Price: $5.00

Dollar Tree has a limited selection of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavors, so there are many reasons why you should buy this frozen dessert elsewhere.

At Kroger, a pint of this tasty chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream is over $1 less expensive at just $3.99. You can even choose between different flavors or dairy-free varieties at Kroger as well.

7. Kraft Mac and Cheese

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Price: $1.25

One box of Kraft mac and cheese at Dollar Tree is just $1.25, but you can save even more when you shop at Walmart.

A five-count box at Walmart makes each box under a dollar, and it saves you from making multiple trips to the store. If you bought five individual boxes of this creamy macaroni and cheese at Dollar Tree instead, you’d be spending $1.37 more.

8. Jimmy Dean Sausage Breakfast Bowl

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Price: $3.00

This breakfast bowl is great in a pinch, but that convenience factor will end up costing you more at Dollar Tree.

Compared to Walmart, you’re spending $0.33 more at this dollar store which really adds up. Plus, Walmart has plenty of other flavor varieties to choose from, like meat lovers or sausage and gravy.

9. Banquet Beef Pot Pie

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Price: $1.25

Sure, this may seem like a good deal, but did you know these pot pies are only $1 at Walmart?

Walmart has a selection of Banquet pot pies, including chicken, beef, and turkey. At Dollar Tree, you’re spending an extra $0.25 per pot pie, which could add up to extra dollars if you’re stocking your freezer with this favorite comfort food.

10. Bumblebee Lemon & Pepper Tuna

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Price: $1.25

Save a quarter when you buy these ready-made tuna packs at Kroger instead of Dollar Tree.

Dollar Tree has Bumblebee tuna for $1.25 in different flavors, like this lemon and pepper blend. However, at Kroger, each packet costs just $1, so you can easily stock up on these protein-packed bites.

11. State Fair Classic Corn Dogs

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Price: $4.00

You save more by buying more of these delicious corn dogs at Kroger rather than Dollar Tree.

Each corn dog in this six-pack costs $0.67 at Dollar Tree, while the Kroger 16-count is just $0.62 and fills your freezer with a handy bite. They’re the exact same brand, but one store is more cost-effective than the other.

12. Doritos Spicy Sweet Chili

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Price: $2.50

Just because you’re craving a snack during your Dollar Tree visit doesn’t mean you have to spend extra.

At Walmart, this same bag and flavor of Doritos chips is only $2.32 for $0.18 in savings. This sweet and spicy, crunchy snack may just taste even better knowing you’ve gotten a great deal on it.

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Bottom line

Sometimes, all it takes to save money shopping is comparing prices with other retailers. Dollar Tree does have plenty of deals and the lowest price around on items like Pillsbury cake mix, boxed spaghetti, and sodas, and it’s worth taking a trip to your local store to see what bargains you can find to stock your pantry, fridge, or freezer this summer.

Just don’t assume every price is lower, and do a little comparison shopping first.

Money tips that can work for everyone

No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.

Focus on paying off your debt . Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.

Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.

Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).