As an international student in the US, being financially savvy will help you stretch your dollar while on a student budget. Luckily, there is a selection of best discount stores in the US that offer the best bargains you should look out for. You might, however, be wondering what a discount store is.
To put it simply, a discount store or shop is a retail operation that offers goods for sale that are less expensive than the prices offered at traditional stores for comparable items, notes the website wisegeek.
What can you purchase from a discount store in the US? Plenty.
Typically, they offer a wide range of clothing and household supplies. In some cases, they may only sell one type of item — which may include stationery, office supplies or electronics.
There are many benefits to shopping at a discount store in the US, which include the following:
- Unparalleled discount offers — you could save heaps when you shop at discount stores.
- “Serve yourself” basis — you won’t be bothered by annoying salespeople who follow you around the store.
- Great selection — if you’re looking for a specific item, there is a variety of options for you to choose from according to your budget.
- Available under one roof — you could purchase everyday items in one place — from food to clothes.
Another question that might be pinging in your mind: What about the quality of their products? Will it be value for money?
That depends. Some may not be the best quality, but many items at discount stores in the US can be as good as those offered by traditional stores.
With that being said, here is our pick of the three best discount stores in the US for you to shop for everyday items.
There are over 18,000 Dollar General stores available in the US — that sell anything from food items to cleaning supplies. Source: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images/AFP
3 best discount stores in the US
Dollar General
In the US, there are more than 18,000 Dollar General stores located in 47 states — with the exception of Alaska, Hawaii, and Montana. If you study in one of those 47 states, you’re bound to find a Dollar General branch near your college or university campus.
If you’re planning a party — you could buy a great selection of food and snacks here. They are also popular for their cleaning products and home essentials such as milk or laundry detergents. Dollar General plans to expand its Popshelf Chain to about 1,000 locations by the end of the 2025 fiscal year. There, you could find home furnishings, party items, toys, and beauty products for 5 US dollars or less.
Dollar General offers coupons and deals where you can save money too.
Amber Heard’s money situation is apparently somewhat dire these days in the wake of the Johnny Depp verdict — which awarded $8.3 million in damages — so in light of that … to TJ Maxx it is. https://t.co/JCPdc0vSCm
— TMZ (@TMZ) June 19, 2022
TJ Maxx
If you want to avoid splurging on apparel or clothing, then TJ Maxx is a great option.
As of June 2022, there are 1,290 TJ Maxx locations in the US, according to data company ScrapeHero, so you’re bound to find one near your college or university campus.
TJ Maxx offers brand-name clothing, shoes, furniture and lighting, handbags, bath and beauty products, and more.
Big Lots offers you up to a 20% discount when you purchase items from its online store — available during its Family and Friends promotions. Source: Bruce Bennett/Getty Images/AFP
Big Lots
Of the many discount stores in the US, Big Lots offers a wide range of items for your college or university student’s needs, which includes anything from kitchen utensils to everyday household essentials to clothing.
According to the Big Lots’ website, there are over 1,400 Big Lots stores in 47 states, with the exception of Hawaii, Alaska and Puerto Rico. They offer a variety of coupons and surprises throughout the year.
