Although Walmart is known for its low, low prices, not everything there is a good buy. Plus, it’s worth paying a little extra on certain items for quality that will last. Here are 10 things you should never buy at Walmart.
10. High-End TVs
Walmart is a good option for TVs if you want to buy low-end, bargain TVs. However, if you’re in the market for a high-end TV, Walmart doesn’t have a big variety. You’ll find better choices at electronic stores such as Best Buy, or warehouse stores like Costco (which also offers a good electronics warranty).
9. Batteries
Many people assume Walmart would be the least expensive place to buy batteries, given that they sell jumbo packages. However, you’re likely to find lower prices at Amazon, or a warehouse store such as Costco or Batteries Plus. This is especially true if you’re looking for name-brand or specialty batteries.
8. Meat
You might already be arguing with this one. However, there have been numerous articles and social media videos about Walmart’s potential freshness with its meat selection and refrigeration issues. If you’re looking for a bargain on meat prices, experts recommend ALDI. The selection isn’t as expansive, but the products are fresh and high-quality.
7. Maple Syrup
According to one consumer analyst, the price per ounce of maple syrup at Walmart is much higher than you’ll pay elsewhere. At Walmart, even the generic brand costs nearly 64 cents per ounce. A 32-ounce bottle costs about 50 cents per ounce. By comparison, at Costco, a 33.8-ounce bottle runs about 39 cents per ounce.
6. Honey
You can save a lot of money on honey by buying in bulk at stores such as Costco rather than at Walmart. A 12-ounce bottle of great value honey (Walmart’s generic brand), runs about 31 cents per ounce. By comparison, at Costco, it runs about 19 cents per ounce, a considerable savings.
5. Paper Products
Walmart is not the least expensive when it comes to paper products such as paper towels, toilet paper, napkins, and paper plates. Sure you can save money on 1-ply toilet paper, but you have to use twice as much. You can buy cheap generic paper plates, but for slightly more at Costco, you can buy plates that won’t disintegrate.
4. Prepaid Phone Plan
Everyone’s heard about the savings on Walmart’s StraightTalk wireless plans. However, you get what you pay for. The service regularly ranks as one of the worst available. For more affordable plans, it’s worth checking out Google Fi. Also, Mint Mobile routinely makes the “best of” list when it comes to prepaid plans.
3. Furniture
Walmart offers some cheap furniture options, but if you’re looking for something that will last or be able to handle kids and pets, it’s worth spending a little more. Check out locally-owned furniture stores or furniture specialty stores. Ashley offers a good balance of affordable prices and a lot of variety, as well as higher-end furniture.
Read More: 10 Things You Should Be Buying at Aldi
2. Appliances
Walmart offers a selection of appliances, although much smaller than you’ll find at stores like Best Buy, Home Depot, or Lowe’s. Also, some of the Walmart brands may not be of the best quality. You might save money but your appliance may have a shorter lifespan. Check the aforementioned stores, as well as devoted appliance stores and warehouse clubs instead.
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1. Gift Cards
Although Walmart has a fairly large offering of gift cards, you’ll be paying the full list price for all of them. However, if you shop at warehouse clubs, you can purchase multi-packs at a discount. Shopping at stores like Costco or Sam’s Club for gift cards you can often expect a 15% to 20% discount on the purchase price.
Read More: 10 Must-Buy Items at Walmart