Growing up in a big family, convenience stores were a rare treat — but I quickly learned that “convenience” usually came with a hefty price tag. As the oldest of 11, I often tagged along on grocery runs, and my mom would point out which items were overpriced compared to what we could get at the supermarket. Those lessons stuck with me. To this day, I can spot a convenience store rip-off from a mile away. Here are 13 foods that are almost always a waste of money if you grab them at the corner store.
1. Bottled Water
It’s no secret that bottled water is a convenience store staple, but at what cost? The price per gallon can be more than twice that of gasoline! Not to mention the environmental impact of all those plastic bottles. A better option? Invest in a good quality, reusable water bottle and fill it up at home.
While it’s true that bottled water can be a lifesaver in emergencies or when traveling, for everyday use, it’s just not worth the price. So next time you’re tempted to grab a bottle of water at the convenience store, think twice. You’ll be doing your wallet and the planet a favor.
2. Pre-Cut Fruit and Vegetables
Pre-cut fruit and vegetables are notorious for their hefty price tag. Sure, they save you a few minutes of prep time, but is it really worth the extra cost? Not to mention, pre-cut produce tends to spoil faster, meaning you might end up throwing away money if you don’t eat them fast enough.
A study published on J-STAGE reports that pre-cut vegetables often lose their nutritional value due to exposure to air, light, and heat. So not only are you paying more, but you’re also getting less nutrition. Instead, opt for whole fruits and vegetables – they’re cheaper, last longer, and are more nutritious.
3. Name-Brand Snacks
Let’s be honest, we’ve all fallen for the allure of name-brand snacks. But are they really worth the extra cost? In many cases, store brands offer the same quality and taste at a fraction of the price. So why pay more for the same thing?
According to a report on Google Books, many name-brand snacks are produced in the same factories as their generic counterparts, meaning you’re essentially paying for the label. Next time, give the store brand a try. You might be surprised at how much you can save.
4. Frozen Meals
Frozen meals may seem like a cheap and easy meal option, but there’s more than meets the eye. When you factor in the cost per serving, along with the nutritional value (or lack thereof), frozen meals can actually be quite expensive.
Not to mention, many frozen meals are loaded with sodium and preservatives, which can have negative effects on your health in the long run. According to a study published on ScienceDirect, high sodium intake is linked to numerous health problems, including high blood pressure and heart disease. So, while they might seem like a convenient option, frozen meals might cost more than you think.
5. Pre-Made Sandwiches
Ever grabbed a pre-made sandwich on the go? While it might seem like a quick and easy meal, these sandwiches often come with a hefty price tag. For the price of one pre-made sandwich, you could probably make several at home with fresh ingredients.
Not only will making your own sandwiches save you money, but it also allows you to control what goes into your food. This can be especially beneficial if you’re trying to eat healthier or have dietary restrictions. So next time you’re tempted by the convenience of a pre-made sandwich, consider making your own instead.
6. Single-Serve Coffee Pods
Single-serve coffee pods might seem like a convenient way to get your caffeine fix, but at what cost? The cost per serving is much higher than buying a bag of ground coffee or beans. Plus, those plastic pods are not great for the environment.
An article on Facebook highlights that you’re essentially paying for the convenience of a single-serve pod, and not the coffee itself. So, if you’re a daily coffee drinker, consider investing in a traditional coffee maker or a French press – your wallet and the planet will thank you.
7. Overpriced Spices
Spices can be a great way to add flavor to your meals, but they can be ridiculously overpriced at convenience stores. When you break it down by weight, some spices can be more expensive than gold! So, unless you’re in a pinch, it’s best to avoid buying spices at convenience stores.
Instead, consider shopping at bulk stores or online. You can often find the same spices at a fraction of the cost. Plus, buying in bulk means you’ll always have your favorite spices on hand. So, next time you need to restock your spice rack, remember to shop around for the best deal.
8. Protein Bars and Energy Drinks
Protein bars and energy drinks can seem like a good idea when you need a quick boost, but they can be a major drain on your wallet. Not to mention, many of these products are loaded with sugar and other unhealthy ingredients.
According to a report on Cheapism, you’re often better off eating a piece of fruit or drinking a glass of water for a natural energy boost. Not only will this save you money, but it’s also a healthier option. So, next time you’re tempted to reach for a protein bar or an energy drink, consider opting for a cheaper, healthier alternative instead.
9. Miniature Toiletries
Miniature toiletries might seem like a good idea if you’re in a pinch or traveling, but they’re not a great value. You’re often paying more per ounce than you would for the full-sized version. Plus, all that excess packaging is bad for the environment.
So, instead of buying miniature toiletries, consider buying travel-sized containers and filling them with your regular products. Not only will this save you money, but it’s also a more sustainable option. So, next time you’re in need of toiletries, remember to think twice before reaching for those miniature versions.
10. Pre-Packaged Meats
Pre-packaged meats can be a convenient option, but they often come with a high price tag. When you factor in the cost per serving, pre-packaged meats are often more expensive than buying fresh meat and preparing it yourself.
Not to mention, pre-packaged meats often contain added sodium, preservatives, and other unhealthy ingredients. So, while they might seem like a convenient option, pre-packaged meats might not be the best choice for your health or your wallet.
11. Brand-Name Batteries
Brand-name batteries might seem like a reliable choice, but they often come with a high price tag. In many cases, store-brand batteries can provide the same performance at a fraction of the cost.
So, next time you’re in need of batteries, consider giving the store brand a try. You might be surprised at how much you can save. Plus, by choosing cheaper batteries, you’ll have more money to spend on things that really matter.
12. Store-Bought Salads
Store-bought salads might seem like a healthy and convenient meal option, but they can be quite expensive. When you factor in the cost per serving, buying the ingredients and making your own salad can be much cheaper.
Not to mention, store-bought salads often come with unhealthy dressings and toppings. By making your own salad, you can control what goes into it and make healthier choices. So, next time you’re tempted to grab a store-bought salad, consider making your own instead.
13. Gourmet Ice Cream
Gourmet ice cream might be a delicious treat, but it comes with a premium price tag. When you factor in the cost per serving, buying a regular tub of ice cream can be much cheaper.
Not to mention, gourmet ice cream often comes with added sugars and unhealthy ingredients. If you’re craving a sweet treat, consider opting for a cheaper, healthier alternative instead. Not only will this save you money, but it’s also a healthier option.