Is Discount Store Shopping Really Cheaper?

I know many people who flock to what I will call discount stores. They think shopping at a Dollar Tree which offers a wide variety of grocery, personal care, laundry and household items at a great price. Also places like Price Rite which supposedly offers items cheaper than a regular store would. Dollar Tree does allow you to use coupons, so depending on the item it could be a cheaper way to shop. Also, Dollar Tree's seem to be just about everywhere. Their stock can vary from store to store and from day to day.

Price Rite you can not use coupons at because the prices are supposedly lower. You used to be able to find good deals on cereal, milk and orange juice. Their macaroni prices are the same as a big named store...Well when the big named store has them on sale for .99. However, I don't know maybe if you only bought Price Rite brand items you might save quite a bit. One thing though sometimes you get what you pay for. If you buy cheap bread does it fall apart while you're trying to spread anything on it? Is it worth saving in that case or heading to a big name store and paying $1.00 for bread?

Only you know your financial situation and what works best for you and your family. I'm only giving my opinions and what I observed. I have purchased cereal for $1.50 or less at the big name stores. So if that is the case why would I head to a discount store when I get it cheaper at a big name store? I have found the once cheaper OJ is now the same at a store I shop at. Milk I have found cheaper elsewhere as well.

I admit though if you do run out of something and it is not on sale anywhere, a discount store might prove to be a better option then spending full price.

I guess it's all a matter of how you look at it. Not every one uses coupons or shops on sale.

If it was me I would explore all of my options and ways that I can maximize my money and savings.