travel items from dollar tree

75 Travel Essentials You Should Buy At The Dollar Store

If you’ve ever been on a trip, you know how overwhelming packing everything can be. Not to mention the cost of all those travel-sized toiletries! Even though they’re super cute, I just can’t abide paying almost as much for a 2 oz bottle as the full-sized version.

There’s a simple solution!

Dollar Tree to the rescue yet again.

I recently stopped at the Dollar Tree to stock on my favorite household and beauty essentials, and lo and behold, I noticed tons of items that would be perfect for a road trip or a plane trip.

Related: 7 beauty products you could be buying at the dollar store

This post may contain affiliate links. You can view my full disclosure policy here .

My family and I are traveling to Seattle next month, and that will only be my fifth plane trip ever. I am clueless about packing for plane travel, but now I know I will be using dollar store travel items.

No matter what trip you have planned, Dollar Tree has an extensive collection of items you will find helpful. You’ll save money by purchasing them there, and save time by getting them all in one place.

Plus, you don’t always want to bring your best versions of things on vacation, in case they get lost or forgotten.

Don’t have time to read the entire post? Request a free printable shopping list of the dollar store travel essentials!

75 of the Best Dollar Store Travel Items

UPDATE : Did you know you can buy these and many other items online, on the Dollar Tree website ?! If you don’t live near a Dollar Tree, or prefer the convenience of online shopping, click here to check out their website!

Healthy essentials:

The dollar store has a huge variety of travel sized medications and other healthy essentials. Here’s what I found at my local Dollar Tree, sized perfectly for travel.

• Generic versions of Motrin, Bayer aspirin, Tylenol, and Benadryl
• Gummy multivitamins, Biotin, Vitamin D, and Melatonin
• Tums and Zantac
• Pill organizers (for your medications and vitamins, or to organize small earrings)
• Small first aid kit
• Cough drops and cold medicine
• Pain relief gels, patches, and creams
• Travel size hand sanitizer bottles
• Anti-bacterial wipes

You could also make your own dollar store first aid kit , especially if you’re going on a road trip. Incorporate some of these items:

• Antibiotic ointment
• Paper, waterproof, or athletic tape
• Disposable gloves and face masks
• Thermometer

Beauty and Personal Care:

• Travel size toiletries (shampoo & conditioner, lotion, mouthwash)
• Empty travel size bottles (TSA approved 3 oz size – fill with your favorite products from home)
• Toothbrushes (with travel holders)
• Dental floss sticks
• Small pouches to hold makeup and toiletries
• Travel/purse size tissue packs
• Manicure kits

Snacks and Beverages

The Dollar Tree has a very wide assortment of snacks to choose from. Some are even bagged into individual-sized portions. Or you can buy a big bag or box and portion them out using zip top plastic storage bags.

Their food and drink options include:

• Graham crackers
• Potato chips, tortilla chips, pretzels, etc.
• Sandwich crackers and cookies
• Fruit snacks
• Granola bars
• Candy (HUGE selection)
• Gum and mints
• Peanuts and other nut mixes
• Individual drink mix packets to pour into water bottles
• Juice boxes and individual bottles of Sunny D, etc.
• Reusable water bottles (plastic, glass, and aluminum)
• Reusable travel coffee cups with lids
• Plastic containers (of various sizes) to store snacks

Related: 5 tricks to save money on groceries without using coupons

Travel Items for Kids:

Snacks are an absolute must for traveling with kids, but you also need the essentials. And more importantly, entertainment! At dollar store prices, you could pull out a new toy every time your child starts acting bored and whiny. Avoiding meltdowns is key : )

Some travel ideas for kids are:

• Disposable bags for dirty diapers
• Plastic plate and silverware sets
• Books (for all aged kids)
• Coloring books and activity sets
• Toys (huge variety)
• Glow sticks
• Crayons and colored pencils
• Child-sized reusable water bottle or sippy cup

Other Dollar Store Travel Essentials:

Now that you have your beauty and health products, snacks, and kids’ happiness covered, you may also want to contemplate how to handle what other random travel situations might arise.

Consider picking up these handy items:

• Ziploc-style plastic bags (for holding snacks or toiletries)
• Small flashlights and nightlights (for dark hotel rooms)
• A good book (ya need a beach read!)
• Extension cords and power strips (if your hotel room doesn’t have convenient outlet placement)
• Travel size laundry detergent, fabric softener, and dryer sheets
• Sleep masks and earplugs (for the plane or noisy accomodations)
• Luggage tags
• Reusable shopping bags (as a beach bag or to hold souvenirs)
• Umbrellas and ponchos
• Disinfecting cleaning wipes (to wipe down hotel remote controls, etc.)
• Portable sewing and eyeglass repair kits
• Mesh laundry bags (to separate outfits or hold dirty clothes)
• Reading glasses
• Flip flops (for the shower if you’re camping, or to wear to the pool or beach)
• Socks and cushion insoles
• Vacuum storage bags (to compress clothing to fit into suitcase)

I hope this list gave you loads of ideas for travel items that you can buy at the dollar store. Vacations are expensive enough, without having to spring for all the accessories that go with it.

Have a safe and happy trip!

P.S. Don’t forget to download your travel essentials checklist!

You May Also Like:

• 7 beauty products you could be buying at the dollar store
• 8 surprisingly helpful Christmas supplies from the dollar store
• 25 of the Best Dollar Store Party Supplies
• How to Save Money on Greeting Cards for Every Occasion

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Great list! I pinned it to my travel blog…my husband travels all the time for work! Glad I found this at Thrifty Thursday 😉

Thanks so much, Marissa! I appreciate the positive feedback and the pin.

Heading over to check out your blog… : )

It’s a much needed travel essentials blog . Thanks for sharing !!

Comments are closed.

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• May 12, 2021

49 Dollar Tree Trip Packing Essentials (Includes Shopping List)

Updated: Jun 18, 2022

Most items needed for your trip can be picked up super cheap at Dollar Tree for a third or less than you’d spend at a pharmacy or department store. Plus, you can probably get everything in one trip, saving you time and money!

As both a travel agent and a traveler, I believe our trips' financial investment should go toward what will make the trip the most enjoyable, memorable, and comfortable. How much I spend on ibuprofen, toothpaste, and tissues isn't going to make a difference in the memories I'll have for years of my trip. Or yours.

In addition to saving money, many of your toiletries and other small items you need can be found at a Dollar Tree, saving you multiple stops in other stores. Even with this year's pricing jump from $1 to $1.25, this store may be your best travel budget, shopping, and packing resource.

I’ve created a list of items by category that you may need or want. You're actually going to see many more things than the 49 that I promised. I’ll also add some thoughts that I believe you may find helpful. Lastly, I'm including a link to a handy printable Dollar Tree Vacation Shopping List to help you plan your shopping trip.

ACTIVITY ITEMS

Dollar Tree carries a lot of options to keep adults and children entertained. Particularly when flying, it’s helpful to have activity choices to keep people occupied in airports and planes.

Magazines, books

Puzzle books (crossword, sudoku, word find)

Stickers & temporary tattoos

I love my Kindle and Audible apps, but there’s something nice about holding an “old-fashioned” book or magazine when on vacation. And I’m happy to leave those behind in a ship’s library, cabin, hotel room or lobby, or in an airport for someone else to enjoy them. Even if you’re not a big puzzle book person, these can help kill time when flying and could even become a new hobby. Why the toys, stickers, and tattoos?

A “new toy” can be a sanity-saver when traveling with a bored child on a plane, bus, or train. Stickers and temporary tattoos can also be fun or used as bribery. (Yes, I have experience with bribing my sons on trips when they were young.) Just be sure that the stickers aren’t left on something that makes housekeeping try to scrape off memories of your family from furniture and walls.

CLEANING ITEMS

One of the best ways to avoid illness when traveling has always been diligent with handwashing and cleaning.

Hand sanitizer

Antibacterial wipes

Disinfectant wipes

Small sanitizer bottles and antibacterial wipes in ziplock bags are great traveling companions when you wish you could wash your hands, but can’t. And disinfectant wipes come in handy for wiping down your armrests and tables on planes, handles, and TV remotes in hotel rooms and ship cabins, as well as toilet knobs and seats.

COMFORT & SAFETY ITEMS

These are the type of things you’ll want to pick up from Dollar Tree that you’ll appreciate in a pinch.

Air freshener

Cushion insoles

Rain poncho

Face masks & face shields

If you like to have a small light on at night, you could keep your bathroom light on with the door cracked, but a nightlight would be better. A flashlight is a great tool that’s helpful at night, especially if there’s a loss of electricity. This may be an item rarely needed but, wow, can it really be beneficial when needed. And don’t forget the batteries! Another helpful item is an air freshener for your bathroom. To avoid the potential mess of a gell or liquid, pick up a car freshener.

A sleep mask (eye mask) and earplugs make a difference when trying to sleep on planes, in noisy places, and napping in a cabin or room that doesn’t get dark enough. Another comfort item on a plane is a pair of socks to keep your feet warm if you take your shoes off.

Speaking of feet, you’ll likely do more walking than usual, so those cushion insoles help your feet and stamina.

The small folded-up ponchos are a terrific item to put in your back pocket, bag, or purse. I’ve appreciated those twice. Once, when I was on a boat excursion in the Caribbean and the other in an Alaskan port. Although it wasn’t cold in Ketchikan in June, it was too cold to be walking around while wet. These rain ponchos will help keep you dry without taking a lot of packing space.

DÉCOR ITEMS

Some travelers enjoy personalizing their cabin or room. Some enjoy having a touch of home with them.

Decorations for your cabin

Flameless tea lights

Picture frame

Not everyone wants to decorate their cruise cabin. However, it’s a popular activity for some travelers, and I’ve seen photos of very decked-out cruise ship cabins. Perhaps you want to celebrate your traveling companion’s birthday or holiday, or you enjoy making your room into your castle. A dollar store is the most economical place to shop for decorating on your vacation.

Flameless candles can do the job of a nightlight. They can also lend a lovely ambiance to your accommodations. While I’ve not seen regular-sized flameless candles at our favorite dollar store, I have picked up flameless tea lights there.

Why a picture frame? I’ve had many clients tell me they take a photo of their family or dog or cat on vacation. Why not put their photo in a frame on the vanity or night table by your bed?

FOOD & BEVERAGE ITEMS

Plan ahead to pick these up from your local Dollar Tree, so you don’t end up paying airport prices for these purchases.

Reusable water bottle

Coffee travel mug

Not only can a reusable water bottle save you money over buying bottles of water, but it’s also much better for the environment that you’re out enjoying. And since ship tap water is clean and safe to drink, filling up your bottle when cruising saves you money.

Snacks for in the car, airplane, train, bus, and hotel room can be picked up at much lower prices at Dollar Tree. But why did I list lollipops separately? Babies’ ears will “pop” more easily on a plane when sucking on a pacifier or bottle or when they are nursing. But for older kids, a lollipop can be a huge help in clearing their ears and relieving their pain.

HEALTH & BEAUTY ITEMS

This may be the most significant area in which you can save money by travel shopping at Dollar Tree.

Travel-size toiletries

Over-the-counter meds

First Aid kit

TSA will allow you to bring one 1-quart-size ziplock bag of liquids, gels and aerosols no larger than 3.4 ounces into the passenger cabin of a plane. Medication is an exception. Any other liquids and gels must be packed in your check-in luggage.

Here’s where you want to consider stocking up on your deodorant, shampoo, and other toiletries.

If you’re already a Dollar Tree shopper, you’re aware they carry a vast array of OTC meds including ibuprofen, acetaminophen, laxatives and vitamins. They carry medicines for allergies, upset stomachs. diarrhea, cough, cold, sinus, and more.

Are you wondering why I included a washcloth on the list? People around much of the world wonder about American’s “obsession” with washcloths (also known as “face cloths” and “flannels”) and ice. You’ll find washcloths to be fully available on cruises. But if you stay at hotels on other continents, you may be surprised to not have them in your room. Best to take one or two and a ziplock in which to put damp ones.

DESK SUPPLIES:

I don’t like to trust that I’ll have ready access when I need even simple items, so I always pack pens and paper.

Tablet/journal

Highlighter

Duct or shipping tape

If you are going on a cruise, a highlighter comes in handy for highlighting activities you don’t want to miss on the daily activity sheets. A small roll of duct or shipping tape is an item you could easily overlook but, if something tears or breaks, you’ll be glad to have it.

STORAGE & ORGANIZATION

The more organized you are, the better your packing will go and the more comfortable you will be in your “temporary travel home.”

Refillable toiletry bottles

Pill organizers

Ziplock freezer bags

Plastic hangers

Mesh laundry bag

Magnetic metal clips

If traveling outside the U.S., for you to pack your OTC and prescription meds in their original packages. The pill organizers are excellent for storing your earrings, particularly studs.

All of my liquids and aerosols that get packed are put into ziplock bags. It only takes one trip of having your clothing affected by a leaking bottle. My experience was a long weekend smelling like my hairspray. Never again! Ziplocks also help with organizing, packing, and separating dirty and wet clothing. I’ve found that the freezer bags hold up much better.

A mesh laundry bag can store your dirty clothes while letting them air out a bit. Over-the-door hooks can assist with extra space.

Magnetic metal clips are one of my favorite travel packing hacks for cruising. The cabin walls are metal. By hanging your papers (shore excursion tickets, daily activity papers, order forms, invitations, etc.), you give yourself more space, and everything is neater.

SPARE PARTS

I named these as “spare parts” because, is many cases, these aren’t always the quality I’d likely trust as my primary items. But in case I forget one of them or my main one breaks, having a cheap “spare” that I didn’t invest much money into is helpful and much cheaper than replacing in an airport, tourist destination, resort or on a cruise ship.

Spare earbuds

Spare phone charger

Spare reading glasses

Spare sunglasses

Spare flip-flops

Flip-flops can also double as slippers. Pack your "spare" earbuds, charger and glasses separately from your main ones so you do have a set even if a suitcase gets lost.

You can visit Dollar Tree online to help plan your shopping trip along with our printable list.

Packing Tip

An added way to save time and money is to have a “trip” container for items that are reusable or which don’t expire. Tucked in the back of my closet is a Sterlite container where I toss items that are used for trips. I first raid this treasure chest before seeing what I need to buy. Travel toothbrushes, toothpaste, small tissue packs, and small toiletry containers are among what's in there waiting for the next time I travel.

Download and print your free Dollar Tree Vacation Shopping Checklist.

It's designed so you can personalize it as needed for you and your trip .

Gifting Tip

Do you need a gift for a traveler family member or friend? Consider putting together a gift bag or gift basket of travel-related items from this article. Click here for more travel gift ideas .

Contact us for your next cruise or group motorcoach tour vacation so we can share many more travel tips with you.

If you found this article helpful, please click on the ♥ below and share this with a friend or on your Facebook.

Happy Traveling!

P.S. I have been asked if I'm in an affiliate program with Dollar Tree. The answer is "no." I have four of their locations close by my home and find myself there often to save money. :-)

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30+ Travel Essentials To Buy At The Dollar Store

Looking For The Top Travel Essentials To Buy At The Dollar Store? Look No further!

“30+ Travel Essentials To Buy At The Dollar Store “ was updated in 2024 .

Buying travel-related items can be pretty expensive.

Some items are worth the extra buck but there are certain items that can be bought at the Dollar Store for way less . I love shopping there, they have pretty nice products and they are reasonably priced. Keep in mind, I live in Canada and I am referring mainly to the Dollarama Stores as those are more popular here but I have looked for travel essentials in Dollar Tree as well before.

Also, the prices are in Canadian Dollars and I have included the most recent products and prices that I have seen.

However, the products and prices may vary in different places and not be the exact same as those shown here .

Travel Essentials To Buy At The Dollar Store

Below is a list of the travel essentials I buy from the Dollar Store.

Also, I have included five items that I recommend you buy elsewhere.

Let’s get started.

Toiletries/Beauty Products

The first category that we can find in the Dollar Store is a variety of Toiletries and Beauty Products.

1. Small Toiletries (Varies from $1.00-$3.00) 

Unfortunately, some of the toiletries cannot be transferred into a smaller container (ex. toothpaste, shaving cream, bug spray, deodorant).

Some of them have to be in their original packaging. The Dollar Store offers travel-sized toiletries that are affordable .

I usually go for brands that I recognize and I always make sure to check the expiry date.

I don’t buy products that I am not sure of their quality or anything close to their expiry date.

2. Toiletries Empty Bottles ($3.00)

Empty toiletry bottles are an essential item when traveling. Using them saves an incredible amount of space in your luggage.

Buy a set like the one below ( or a few if you have a lot of toiletries ) and fill the bottles up with shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc.

That way you don’t have to carry huge bottles or buy the more expensive travel-size products.

Those are also ideal if you need to bring any liquids in your carry-on through security.

That is because they usually come in the allowable size ( double-check before buying just in case ).

Get the ones that have little label stickers included in the pack so that you can label all the bottles ( makes it easier to grab the right one ).

3. Soap Container 

Having a soap container is important especially if you are staying at a hostel.

A few years ago, I backpacked through Eastern Europe and we stayed in hostels.

Let me tell you, bringing a nice soap was one of the best things I did as a lot of the hostels did not provide any soap.

I have the exact same one as the picture below but purple and I’ve had it for a long time now.

It held up pretty well, there are no cracks or wear and tear and I do like the design and the colors that it comes in.

Your dollar store might have different options of course.

However, if you are going to a place where you would need to bring soap ( ex. cheap hostels ) getting a soap container from the Dollar Store would be a great idea.

4. Toothbrush Container ($1.25)/Foldable Toothbrush ($1.50 for a pack of 4)

Having a toothbrush container ensures that your toothbrush will be kept nice and clean.

There are a few options where you can get a container for the entire toothbrush, or you can get one that goes over the bristles only ( like a cap ).

Right now I’m using the cap one if space is not a problem.

There is also an option of getting a foldable toothbrush. That one is a good idea if you are short on space.

I also have a foldable toothbrush that I usually pack with me when I am backpacking as I need everything to be as small as possible.

Whichever one you choose they have a good selection at the Dollar Store.

5. Dental Floss ($1.50)

Since we are on the topic of oral health, don’t forget to grab some dental floss as well.

It usually comes in a package where you pull the thread out of the box and wrap it around your fingers.

Some of them have mint flavor as well.

6. Pill Organizer ($2.00 – $4.00)

I love these pill organizers, they are so cute and they help you keep track of all your medication.

Therefore, it ensures that you have enough pills for your whole trip and that you take them every day.

Those also double as jewelry holders – can fit small earrings or rings so that they don’t get lost in your luggage.

7. Tissues/Napkins ($1.25-$3.50)

This one is a must when traveling. Liquids spill frequently or your nose gets stuffy.

They have different size boxes including pocket-size packages as well as individually packaged.

Make sure you have some tissues in your carry-on for quick access.

8. Q Tips & Cotton Balls/Pads ($1.25)

The Dollar Store is a good place to get q tips and cotton balls/pads.

Those are good for makeup removal or nail polish removal.

You don’t have to take the whole package on your trip, only grab what you need.

For some reason, I always forget to bring those, and I get mad at myself for forgetting them.

9. Shaving Razors ($1.50-$4.00)

The Dollar Store has a bunch of different shaving razors for both men and women.

I usually get those pink ones in the large package.

Having a nice new razor for your vacation will make the grooming session faster and more pleasant.

10. Loofa/Bath Sponge ($1.00-$2.00)

If you want to be able to foam up nicely when you take a shower, then packing a loofa is a great idea.

They have different shapes and colors. Also, if you squish the sponge it will fit in any luggage and won’t take up too much space.

On the way back, if it is wet, use a Ziploc bag to store it.

11. Wet Wipes/Antibacterial Wipes/Hand Sanitizer ($1.25-$2.50)

I am not going anywhere without a pack of these. I can’t tell you how many times I needed a wet nap and didn’t have one.

So I have learned my lesson!!

Before any trip, I go to my local Dollar Store and grab a pack of wet wipes.

They smell so good and can be used for so many different things.

Such as if you spill something sticky on your hands, refresh yourself after a long day of walking around, etc.

I carry those in my carry-on bag on the plane or in my day pack once I’m at my destination.

The disinfectant wipes can be used to wipe up the seat on a plane and the food tray or the nightstand and remote control in the hotel room.

12. Hair Clips, Elastics, Headbands ($1.00-$3.50); Brushes – ($4.00-$4.50)

The Dollar Store has a wide range of hair clips, elastics, bows, bobby pins, scrunchies, and headbands.

I don’t know about you but I need my hair tied up if we are walking a lot or hiking.

They also have hair brushes and combs some of which are small or foldable, making them super easy to throw in your carry-on.

Also, some of them even have a mirror so it serves a double purpose.

13. Makeup/Toiletries Bags (Around $4)

I usually put my toiletries in a Ziploc bag first as I have had some bad experiences with liquids spilling.

Once they are in a Ziploc bag I put them inside a little bag/pouch.

Plenty of cute options at the Dollar Store – different sizes and different designs.

They’re also pretty cheap and if something does leak or gets damaged, throwing away the bag/pouch is not a huge loss. 

Travel Essentials

Next, let’s see what items we can find in the Dollar Store that are directly connected to traveling.

14. Luggage Tags ($1.50)

If you are in the market for a new luggage tag, they have some cute ones at the Dollar Store.

I use luggage tags every time I travel.

On the way to my destination, I put the address of the hotel/Airbnb, and on the way home I put my home address.

I include my phone number ( including country code ) and my email.

So I highly recommend having them because it ensures that you will be able to locate lost luggage quicke r.

You can grab a cheap luggage tag from the ones they have at Dollar Tree or Dollarama.

👉 However, if you feel like getting a unique one, check out the luggage tags and other merch products that I have created for other travel bloggers and enthusiasts.

15. Passport Holder 

Another item that I don’t see the point of spending a lot of money on is a passport holder. You can grab a cheap passport holder from Dollarama.

Any of them would do the exact same job – protect your passport.

At some stores, I have even seen a passport holder and a luggage tag set which can also be a cute idea.

16. Sleep Mask/Eye Mask ($1.25)

I don’t know about you but I need a sleeping mask every night ( cannot sleep without one even if it is dark in the room ).

I have one in my carry-on bag in case I want to sleep on the plane ( the chances of that are extremely high lol ) and I use it when I go to bed at night.

Sometimes you might not have dark curtains in the room or you might need to sleep during the day (could be tired or sick) .

Having a sleeping mask can ensure you get proper rest no matter what. 

17. Luggage Locks (Around $4)

If you need luggage locks, there is a wide variety of choices at the Dollar Store – ones with a key and ones with a code.

I personally prefer the ones with the key because I can never remember the code. I put the key in my wallet and we are good to go.

Some of the pieces of luggage do come with a lock (either with keys or code) .

However, if yours doesn’t or you lose the one you have, grabbing one from the Dollar Store will be a good idea.

They are pretty sturdy too.

Miscellaneous

Here are a few miscellaneous travel essentials to buy at the Dollar Store before your trip.

18. Bags, bags, bags (Laundry and Vacuum $1.25-$4.00; Reusable $1.00-$4.00)

You will definitely want to bring some reusable shopping bags with you when you travel.

They have all different sizes and designs and can be used for lots of different purposes such as storing extra purchases.

Some Dollar Stores even have beach bags and tote bags as well.

You will also find those meshy-looking laundry bags so that you can separate your dirty clothes in your luggage.

They even have those vacuum bags where you vacuum the air out to make the contents smaller so it takes less space in your luggage.

19. Drier Sheets ($2.50-$3.00)

In order to keep your luggage and clothes smelling nice and pleasant during your trip, a useful trick is to throw in a few drier sheets in your suitcase.

You absolutely need those if you are traveling to the Caribbean or anywhere that is hot and humid.

Due to the humidity, your clothes will start smelling damp (yes, even the ones you haven’t worn yet ).

So far, I have found that drier sheets help with that smell the best.

Travel Essentials To Buy At The Dollar Store , If You Are Going On A Beach Vacation

Let’s talk about what goodies we can find in the Dollar Store, specifically for going on a beach vacation.

20. Sunglasses/Reading Glasses ($1.25-$2.50)

When you go on a beach vacation, you definitely need to bring a cheap pair of sunglasses for when you are at the beach or pool.

That is so that you don’t lose your good pair ( damage them or someone steals them from your bag) .

Keep your nice pair for when you go out for lunch or are walking around the resort/hotel so you know they will be safe.

If you need a basic pair of reading glasses, then the Dollar Store has a lot of options. I don’t need those ( yet lol) but my mom does and she has a pair in her car, at work, and at home.

21. Flip-flops ($2.50-$4.00)

You can find tons of different colored flip-flops in the Dollar Store.

Those are perfect for the beach as flip-flips tend to get damaged from the sand so picking up a cheap pair might not be a bad idea.

I’ve bought some before and they lasted quite a long time so the quality is pretty good.

22. Sunhat ($3.00-$4.00)

Personally, I do not want to spend a lot of money on a sunhat because I only wear it when I go to the Caribbean.

Before I go, I grab a cheap one from the Dollar Store , and then I leave it at the resort as I do not want to pack it in my luggage on the way back.

23 . Book/Magazine

The Dollar Store has a limited selection of cheap books and some magazines that you can pick up.

Most of the books are basic but depending on which store is near you, you can find some hidden gems.

Also, you can go for a Sudoku book or Crossword if you prefer to challenge your mind.

🦄 If you want to get more ideas on what to pack for a beach trip, check out this blog post: How to pack for your first beach vacation

Travel Essentials To Buy At The Dollar Store , If You Are Going On A Road Trip

The next time you plan a road trip, make sure you stop by the Dollar Store and grab a few road trip travel essentials.

24. Umbrellas/Ponchos (1.50 and up)

Bringing an umbrella and a poncho is super important if you are going to an area that you know is known for rain.

They have a bunch of different color ponchos as well as ones for kids ( smaller size ).

The umbrellas are not the most sturdy ones but for the price, they are not too bad.

Additionally, it won’t hurt to grab an extra one to throw in the trunk of your car just in case.

25. Plastic/Glass Containers ($1.50-$4.00)

Those are perfect for storing snacks and any type of food you want to bring on your road trip.

They come in all shapes and sizes and some even have dividers in them.

If you can, go for the glass ones as they are of higher quality.

However, the plastic ones are lighter so it depends on what you prefer.

26. Ziploc Bags ($3.00-$4.00)

If you do not want to deal with bulky containers, then go for some Ziploc bags to store your snacks.

They have a wide range of shapes and sizes, including large ones.

Those can double as bags to store toiletries or anything that can spill or that is wet.

27. Reusable Water Bottle/Tumbler/Coffee Travel Mug ($2.00-$4.00)

You cannot go on a road trip without having a nice coffee/tea tumbler with you.

The Dollar Store has tons of water bottles, tumblers, coffee travel mugs, cuppies with straws, etc.

When you try to decide which one to get, look for one that is easy to clean and the lid seems to fit tightly as you don’t want it to spill.

Travel Essentials To Buy At The Dollar Store , If You Are Traveling With Kids

If you are going to travel with your children, stopping for travel essentials at the Dollar Store is a must.

28. Children’s Toys (1.50-$5.00)

There are tons of children’s toys available – a whole aisle is dedicated to them.

They have stuffed toys, barbies/dolls, Play-Doh, swards/guns, balls, figurines, glow sticks, soap bubbles makers, cars/trucks of all shapes and sizes, etc.

Also, they have different simple board games and cards such as dominos, Uno, regular cards, etc.

Having a variety of toys for your child will make traveling a lot smoother for both of you.

29. Beach Toys ($2.00-$4.00 ) and Floaties ($1.50-$4.00)

You will find those usually in the summer months ( unless it is warm weather where you live year-round ).

I have used some of the floaties from the Dollar Store in the past and they are not too bad.

I usually get them for the Carrebian vacations, and on the way back I leave them by the pool.

Some of them look bigger in the pictures than they are in real life so check the sizing before buying.

There are also those foam-looking noodles as well as different sizes sets of sand buckets, shovels, and shapes.

Also, they have cheap goggles, flippers, and other snorkeling equipment if your kid wants to try out snorkeling.

30. Books, Coloring Books, Puzzles, Notebooks ($1.25-$4.00)

The Dollar Store has a wide range of books for children such as coloring books, trivia, puzzles, Sudoku/crosswords ( for older ones ), word search, spot the difference, activities, sticker books, regular story books, etc.

Other options are to grab a journal, notebook, or sketchbook where they can write or draw.

Having those on hand will make any road trip or plane ride way more manageable as the kids will have some activities to entertain them which will help them pass the time easier.

31. Markets, Colored Pens/Pencils, Crayons ($1.50-$4.00)

If you get them a coloring book, journal, notebook, or sketchbook then you will need to get some colored markers, pens/pencils, or crayons.

Some of them even have glitter in them. Like how cool is that?

If your child is artsy, you can find tons of arts and crafts stuff in the Dollar Store as well.

They have small canvases that you can pack in your carry-on. Also, there are brushes and a whole bunch of paints available.

Those might be more appropriate for an older kid as those can get quite messy.

Travel Essentials NOT To Buy At The Dollar Store

There are tons of useful travel essentials to buy at the Dollar Store, however, there are a few products that you should steer clear of.

Neck Pillow/Travel Pillow ($6.00)

Personally, I do not like the pillows they offer at the dollar store.

I have tried a few different ones and I don’t think they support my neck well enough.

The filling inside of them moves too much and does not provide good support.

Also, I’m not a huge fan of the materials they use for the cover ( outside layer ). And since I sleep a lot on planes, I decided to invest in a good neck pillow.

I bought one from a store ( spa/massage one ) at a random airport and it is good quality and provides excellent support.

So I got rid of my Dollarama travel pillow and I don’t go anywhere without my new one.

Food/Snacks/Drinks

Overall, I do not suggest buying any food or drinks from the Dollar Store as I am not sure about their quality.

One time I bought a bag of chips and it had expired a year ago ( yikes!) .

If you do decide to buy anything, I suggest buying a brand that you recognize and making sure you check the expiry date. 

Sunscreen ($3.50)

I don’t trust sunscreen from the Dollar Store.

It seems like most sunscreens are filled with a lot of chemicals.

So I prefer to go for an organic brand or one that has a good reputation ( hopefully with fewer chemicals ).

I do burn pretty quickly so it is not worth it for me to spend less money on a sunscreen that might not protect my skin.

We have bought sunscreen from the Dollar Store once and it did not smell good and overall was not a good product.

I recommend investing in a high-quality sunscreen that is going to protect you properly and hopefully has good ingredients.

Meds/Pills/Vitamins ($2.50-$4.00)

The same thing with the meds, I would not risk it and would buy any kind of medication from the pharmacy.

I am not a hundred percent sure about this but I have heard from people that sometimes products in the Dollar Store might be missing ingredients or have an inaccurate proportion of ingredients in them.

So I would not purchase any kind of medication because I don’t want to have some sort of reaction or have a health issue while I am overseas. 

If you want to sleep on the plane or are staying in noisy accommodations, having earplugs can ensure peaceful rest.

The Dollar Store earplugs are made of cheaper material and don’t seem to fit the ear well enough.

The material seems like you can squish it and put it in your ear once and then it doesn’t go back to its original shape.

If you will need them more than once, then invest in a better pair.

Electronics/Batteries/Earphones/Cables ($1.25-$4.00)

It depends on what kind of item you’re buying .

I have bought quite a few earphones from the Dollar Store and they did not last too long.

So if you’re abroad and you’re earphones randomly stop working you have to go and look for new ones in a different country and waste your time or simply not have any.

I have bought batteries and sometimes it feels like they don’t have as much power as they should.

So for this one you need to decide for yourself, do you actually need the item, how important is it for you, do you trust the product based on the way it looks.

If it is something you cannot live without, I would say invest more money and get a higher-quality product.

If it is an item that you will use once or twice on your trip and you don’t care about it then go ahead and get one from the Dollar Store.

It depends on your situation but remember, there could be some hit or miss with the electronics department.

🦄 If you want to get more ideas on how to save money for travel, check out this blog post: How to save money for travel

Conclusion: 30+ Travel Essentials To Buy At The Dollar Store

Well, there you have it, my list of 30+ travel essentials to buy at the Dollar Store.

Those are items that can save you some money and provide reasonable quality.

I have also mentioned 6 products that I personally choose to buy elsewhere. I hope this blog post was useful and can give you some ideas of what items you can grab at the Dollar Store.

I'm the Travel Addicted Unicorn - an avid traveller, culinary globetrotter and once-in-a-lifetime experience seeker.

I've been travel blogging since 2019 & have had the opportunity to travel to 30 + countries.

Through my blog posts, I share my travel experiences, providing advice, insights & practical tips & tricks.

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The Ultimate Dollar Tree Hacks for Easy Traveling

Jun 2, 2019 | Tips/Reviews

Packing well is part skill / part having the right items. There are so many great products out there to help you, but when you add the cost of them all up, it can quickly get expensive. Enter the Dollar Tree store – a place where so many things can be found, and of course, they are only a dollar. Here are some Dollar Tree travel hacks that we have found along the way.

Packing Your Clothes

I was surprised to see how many products in Dollar Tree that will help with the chore and frustration of packing clothes, especially when trying to pack light.

Packing Cubes

1Everyone has heard of packing cubes and how they allow you to pack more in your suitcase since everything is using the space efficiently. They can get expensive though. The Dollar Tree store actually has sweater storage bags, which can be used as packing cubes, and they are only $1 for 2 of them. They zip up and air can vent out the sides so they are a great find.

Vacuum Storage Bags

2 If you have access to a vacuum at your home and travel destination, these vacuum bags can be a lifesaver for clothes, towels, bedding, pillows, jackets, ski clothes, and other bulky items. Even if you don’t have a vacuum, you can still use these by putting weight (have someone sort of lay on them) to get as much of the air out as possible and then cap them. These bags can save a lot of packing room in a suitcase or car.

Laundry Mesh Bags

3Mesh laundry bags are so useful to pack in small space and keep dirty laundry contained during your trip or can be used for the beach for your beach toys to make them easy to rinse and dry out. They can also be used like packing cubes by placing clothes them and wrapping the excess bag around. They keep things organized and are breathable so easy to pack.

Shower Caps

4Shower caps are extremely useful in packing since they can be used for wrapping a number of things to protect the rest of your clothes. One of the most significant uses is for shoes. Use a shower cap to cover shoes to stay together, and if the bottoms are dirty, they won’t affect the clothes they touch. They can also be used for wrapping small items together and twisty tie the top. Since you can get 8 of these for a dollar, they are a great value in your travel supplies.

Stocking Your Medicine Kit

A travel medical kit is a critical item to keep current and take with you on all travel, especially foreign travel, when these items may be harder to purchase easily.

Travel Sized Medical Products

5YYour travel medicine kit should be stocked with items like antibiotic ointment, alcohol wipes, and lip balm for both warm and cold based vacations. The dollar store also has pain relievers, cough drops, and many other over the counter medications. Packing these products are very important for foreign or cruise travel since they are typically harder to obtain.

Adhesive Bandages

6Adhesive bandages of all sizes can be found at the dollar store. We would recommend buying one of the full assorted boxes and then packing a few of each size in your travel medical kit. Before your next travel, make sure to restock your kit replacing ones you have used.

Muscle Pain Relief

7If you are going on an adventure vacation (hiking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, etc.) or just a holiday where there is a lot of walking, these packs are useful for sore muscles or strained areas after you have had a long day. Each package comes with two patches so bringing along one or two packs may be all you need.

8The little beaded cold packs in the dollar store have many uses. These are great for bumps and cuts for an ice pack that isn’t too cold. They can be used to keep small snack cold for the trip, or if someone is feverish or just hot, they can be used on the wrists, back of the neck or face to help cool them down. The ice packs come in fun colors and shapes, which can comfort when someone is not feeling well.

Packing Your Toiletry Bag

One of the most useful categories of items that you can find at the dollar store are travel size toiletry products to allow you to pack in less room.

Travel Sized Bottles

9Travel sized toiletries such as lotion, sunscreen, and shaving cream are just a few of what can be picked up at the dollar store. There is usually a large section of the miniature products that will fit easily into a travel bag.

10 The dollar store usually has a large section of travel sizes items and products in the store. You can purchase pretty everything you need, including hand sanitizer, toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, etc. This section is a must visit when going on a vacation.

Reusable Travel Bottles

11 If you don’t like the plastic waste of the small bottles, there are travel size reusable bottles at the dollar store that can be filled from larger bottles and reused. There are all different sizes and types (jars and bottles, small and large). There is even a kit that comes with two bottles, bath sponge, and toothbrush cover all for one dollar.

While You are Traveling

Traveling cramped on a plane or in a car can be uncomfortable. The dollar store offers several products that can be used to make this experience better.

Sleep Mask/Ear Plugs

12 During your travels on airplane, car, train, or boat, sometimes the conditions that you are trying to sleep in are not ideal. It may be too bright or too loud for you. The dollar store has sleep masks and earplugs that would be easy to slip into a carry on and make sleeping much more comfortable. This little package came with both, so it is an even better deal.

Reading Light

13 On a long plane or car trips, you may not want what to turn on the reading light or in a car you don’t have one. This little clip on battery operated light is perfect for being able to read while everyone else is trying to sleep. It is small enough not to bother people around you or the driver, but big enough to put out enough light to read.

Suction Cups

14 These little suction cups can be stuck to the window to hang things like headphones when not using them to keep them accessible and out of the way. They can be easily applied and removed and can also be used at the travel destination in the bathroom/shower to hold items.

Earbud Case

15 This little earbud holder can be hooked to a carry-on backpack and make it easy to find your earbuds and can keep them from getting too tangled. This small case can be used all of the time – not just traveling.

At Your Destination

Once you are at your destination, there are little products that can be found at the dollar store that can be helpful at your travel destination.

Battery LED Light

16 These little lights are battery operated and can be set anywhere or mounted with removable strips. This nice in an unfamiliar hotel or housing to have a light accessible in a dark hallway, especially with children. These lights can be moved around as needed and pack very flat.

Large Clips

17 These large clips are so useful. We have several packages of them and use them to hold swimming towels to chairs when out on the beach or when we are trying to try out beach towels on a balcony. They can also be used while camping to hold a tablecloth down since they are much larger and stronger than clothespins.

Rain Poncho

18 Rain ponchos are comfortable and light to carry in a travel backpack for those unexpected showers while out sightseeing. Other uses are to put on the wet ground under a picnic blanket or beach towel to keep the wetness from seeping through or can be used to cover a damp chair. You can pick up one for every member of the family to use while traveling and maybe a few extra since they are so useful.

19 Little bundles of rope are useful for making a temporary clothesline for drying out towels, holding down items in a windy location, or wrapping up bags or other things while in transport.

20 There is a large selection of tote bags that can be packed flat and then used to carry beach items or ski gear for your day of activities. These tote bags come in various sizes or colors to fit just about everyone needs and tastes.

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11 Comments

Great tips… I will remember these for my up and coming trip 🙂

Great hacks, I’m already on the road for 6 months now but will certainly take the shower cap tip on board, the rain poncho, I packed 3 as my first stop was wet Vietnam, a lot better than an umbrella in the wind. Great post thankyou.

Great ideas and suggestions!!!

Excellent round up of cheap and easy travel hacks! I’ll need to use the shower cap one for traveling up and down home!

Thank you for sharing 😀

Excellent ideas! Will definitely look in our Dollar Store for these great ideas!

These are some great hacks. Well thought out and written article.

the shower cap hack is amazing!! really great idea.

All these are great tips and ones I’d never would have thought of myself.

There are so many great travel-sized products available at the dollar store. We always go and stock up before we head off anywhere. Thanks for sharing!

These are really good ideas. Keep thinking and post more. Thank you!

The large mesh laundry bags with drawstring top are wonderful for sleeping bag storage. The kids don’t have to do a perfect roll and bags still work. Hang bags on hooks in closet or garage between trips. All washable.

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Vacation Season: 10 Essentials You Should Buy at Dollar Tree for Your Next Trip

When you’re traveling, it pays to take advantage of hotel freebies like soap, shampoo and lotions. But there are still essential items you’ll need to pack, whether for the drive or flight, or to use when you reach your destination .

You can stretch your vacation budget by purchasing common travel items at dollar stores. With the first day of summer upon us, we rounded up some of the best bargains at Dollar Tree for your vacation.

Plastic Travel Toothbrush Cases

You want to protect your toothbrush when you travel. Dollar Tree offers an affordable way to do so with these simple plastic cases . They come in packs of two with your choice of blue and white or red and white — each pair of cases is just $1.25.

Kleenex Tissues

Whether you’re in the car, at a theme park or at the beach, you might find yourself in need of tissues. We love these mini three-packs in fun colors and designs for just $1.25.

Colorful Plastic Water Bottles with Flip Top Lids

If you’re spending a day at the beach or a theme park, carrying your own water bottle and filling it from water fountains can save big money. Plus, drinking fresh water is healthier than the sugary soft drinks or iced tea you might pay $5 or more for at tourist destinations . You won’t be able to resist taking a sip from these colorful bottles in your choice of green, pink, gray or blue for $1.25 each.

Barbasol Shaving Cream

Don’t pack that large can of shaving cream when you can grab this mini 5 oz. for $1.25 that will fit perfectly in your toiletries bag and leave plenty of room on the hotel sink for other necessities.

Portable Sewing Kit

If your summer travel includes weddings or other formal affairs, you’ll want to pack a sewing kit in case of rips, tears or snags. Wherever you go, you never know when you’ll need to do some quick repairs on the road.

Travel Novelty Luggage Tags

These travel novelty luggage tags in your choice of a pineapple cocktail glass, old-fashioned bus or coffee cup are too cute to resist for just $1.25. Give your suitcases some personality — and make them easier to spot on the luggage carousel — with tags for everyone in your family.

Bic Silky Touch Disposable Razors

You may not want to pack your expensive razor in case you forget it in the hotel room. Grab a two-pack of Bic Silky Touch Disposable razors and leave one in your travel bag so you always have a razor before you hit the beach, water park or hotel pool.

Clear Plastic Travel Bottles

If you’re particular about your shampoo, conditioner or lotion, these TSA-approved clear plastic bottles make it easy to bring your favorite brands wherever you go. Holding 2.7 ounces of liquid, cream or gel, they’re perfect for your carry-on bag when you’re traveling light.

Kids Sterile Bandages

Accidents happen. Stock up on these adorable kids’ bandages . At just $1.25 for a box of 20, you can buy one for the car, one for your bag and another for each suitcase. Just in case.

Thera Plus Antibacterial Wipes

The pandemic might be over, but most people have maintained some healthy habits from those traumatic years. People rarely travel without antibacterial wipes anymore. Great for clean-up after that truck stop fried chicken or to wash your hands when the rest stop facilities are less than clean, these Thera Plus Antibacterial Wipes have aloe and Vitamin-E to keep your hands smooth as well as clean.

Before you hit the road or the skies, remember to hit up Dollar Tree for your favorite travel essentials .

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Note: Prices above were researched on June 21, 2023 and may vary by location.

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Are you going on a cruise and looking to buy travel items for cheap? Dollar store has some really useful cruise items that won’t break the bank. From travel items, first aid items, children’s items and more, it’s definitely worth taking a trip to the dollar store to prepare for you cruise vacation.

In this post, I share more than 30 items that you can find at the dollar store to bring on your cruise that are a good value. I also share some dollar store cruise hacks using items you can find at your Dollar Tree or other local dollar store.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Dollar Store Cruise Essentials

1. Travel bottles

The dollar store sells small travel bottle sets that are perfect to put your shampoo conditioner and other hair products. If you’re worried that they might leak use this little tip. Place a small piece of plastic wrap along the top of the bottle before you close the lid. This will help stop any potential leakage.

2. Small Beauty Containers

At dollar tree you can find small beauty jars or containers that are perfect to bring small quantities of facial moisturizer and other skin products on your cruise.

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

3. Toothbrush sets

It’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush every few months, so why not get a new toothbrush set every time you cruise.

Set sound of the dollar store include your toothbrush a case and a mini toothpaste if you’re going on a seven day cruise this is absolutely perfect. You can even get a different colour for every member of the family

4. Toothbrush Covers

Antibacterial toothbrush cases are a great buy at the Dollar Tree.

5. Travel Size Sunscreen

At the dollar tree you can find small travel size tubes of sunscreen. Since the quantity is pretty small in the tube I just don’t find it enough for a longer cruise. However if you’re on a short three day cruise bringing a couple of tubes may be enough.

Something to keep in mind is that many Caribbean islands now require you to wear reef friendly sunscreen this may be one product that you may prefer to buy from Amazon.

See recommendation here: Reef friendly sunscreen (check price & reviews on Amazon here)

6. Aloe Vera (travel size)

A cruise essential is an aloe vera after sun gel. Small travel size bottles of aloe vera gel can be found at most local dollar stores.

7. Lip Balm

Lip balm is an a must to pack for your cruise . Along with sunscreen, make sure that you bring lip balm with an SPF on your cruise to avoid your lips burning. I like to bring several and make sure everybody in the family has one. We even make sure that these are packed in our cruise carry on bag .

8. Magnet Clips

A cruiser favorite for organizing a cruise cabin, are magnet hooks and magnet clips. Most cruise stateroom walls are metal, so using the walls store shore excursion tickets, invitations and other papers just makes sense.

While I still but my magnet hooks on Amazon , as they need to be heavy duty to hold backpacks and other heavy items, the magnet clips are pretty good.

Recommended: Magnetic hooks – 22 lbs heavy duty (see 20,000+ Amazon reviews here)

9. A Mini Manicure Set

It’s great to have a manicure set along on your cruise. At only a dollar this is a steal of a deal.

10. Earplugs

If you like quiet I do at night or even during the game consider bringing some earplugs along on your cruise.

11. Mini First Aid Kit

Every cruiser should bring along a cruise first aid kit. There’s so many products available at the dollar store, including mini first aid kits which have several different sizes of Band-Aids and alcohol swabs.

Related post:   31 Cruise First Aid Kit Essentials

12. Mesh Laundry bag

I like to bring a couple of mesh laundry bags on a cruise to store any dirty laundry along the way.

A mesh laundry bag is also great for storing San toys for any beach excursion days and even to carry towels back to the ship after of each day.

13. Whiteboard

Magnetic whiteboards are great for writing messages to your cabin mates or even notes to yourself. You can find a selection of whiteboards, including this weekly planner style one I found at the dollar tree.

14. Hair Elastics, Scrunchies & Hair Clips

The dollar store has an amazing selection of name brand hair elastics, hair clips and scrunchies.

15. Mini Sewing Kit

A small sewing kit is great to have when cruising and traveling, just in case you need to use it. There are often a few safety pins as well.

16. Refillable Water Bottles

During the summer months, the dollar store shelves are full of refillable water bottles of different sizes and colors. Pick these up for everyone in the family to use both on sea days on your cruise, as well as on cruise port days .

17. Battery LED Votive Candles

18. Pencil Cases (as Travel Cases)

The fabric pencil cases sold at the dollar store are great for storage and make great cruise hacks. You can use pencil cases to make DIY cruise first aid kits , passport and document holders, and electronics and charger cases.

19. Travel Size Toiletries

The Dollar Tree has shelves full of travel size toiletry items. From brand name travel size shampoo, conditioner, lotion, sunscreen and more, these are great items to pack up as you prepare for your cruise.

Related:  25 Cruise Packing Tips All Cruisers Need to Know

20. Shower Caps

One of the best and cheapest cruise packing hacks I’ve ever learned, is packing shoes in plastic shower caps before placing them with your clothing. You can pick up a pack of shower caps at your local dollar store.

21. Over the Counter Medication

The selection of over the counter medication at the dollar store is amazing. In particular, you can find travel size versions of your favorite name brands as well as other brands sold at the dollar store.

22. Antibiotic Ointment

Along with band-aids, make sure to pack antibiotic ointment. Even if you get a blister, this is a must-have.

23. Beach Tote Bags

Beach tote bags and reusable bags are great to bring on a cruise for beach days and days on cruise line private islands.

24. Flip Flops

Packing inexpensive flip flops to use at the pool or on beach days is a good idea. In summer months, the dollar store has a really good selection of various beach vacation items.

25. Crossword & Sudoko Books

26. Coloring Books

If you’re crusising with kids, pick up some coloring or activity books to keep busy on the flight or on sea days on your cruise.

27. Sand Toys

If you’re planning beach days with your kids, don’t forget to bring along sand toys or other items to play with on the beach. The best time to get these items is near the summer, so try to grab them when you see them.

28. Sunglasses

Do you need an extra pair of sunglasses, or some sunglasses for the kids? You’ll find lots at the dollar store.

29. Pill Organizer

You can use your pill box to actually organize your medication and vitamins for the days you’re on your cruise, or you use it as a makeshift earring or jewellery organizer. This cruise packing hack is a good one. You can use the different small compartments of the pill organizer to place earrings, rings, charms, small bracelets or necklaces.

You do want to be careful of tangling necklaces, so you may want to bring a small jewellery bag or use straw to string your necklace through.

30. Extra Reading Glasses

If you need glasses for reading, grabbing an extra pair of reading glasses from the dollar store can be a great idea. Put an extra pair in your carry on bag just in case you lose or break yours.

31. Kleenex Travel Packs

One of the best values from the dollar store are travel size kleenex travel packs.

32. Hand Sanitizer

The dollar store has some travel size hand sanitizer bottles, including some with clips to attach on handbags, suitcases and totes.

33. Disinfectant Wipes

Disinfectant wipes are great to have for airplane travel as well as a way to try and keep healthy while on your cruise vacation. The travel packs are a good size, and you can keep a pack in your cabin as well as your shore excursion bag or backpack.

34. Ziplock Plastic Baggies

Plastic baggies are super practical to bring on your cruise to pack wet bathing suits or dry snacks. If you don’t have any at home, you can find different sizes and brands at the Dollar Tree or other dollar store.

35. Scented Kitchen Bags

Scented kitchen bags are great to keep dirty laundry, when packing it up at the end of your cruise. Make sure to bring a couple of these bags along in your luggage .

36. Highlighters

Pick up a few highlighters while shopping at the dollar store. i like to use them to highlight activities or shows in the daily cruise planner. Even though most cruise lines now have this information available on an app, if you prefer to keep organized with a paper planner, most still have this available upon request.

37. Folding Storage Box

If you’re cruising with kids , you’ll probably have a lot of shoes and flip flops taking up space, especially if you have an inside cabin. Our friends brought along a folding storage box and kept it at the bottom of their closet. They left it on the ship so it didn’t need to be brought home.

38. Dental Repair Kit

Did you know that cruise ships have doctors on board, but unfortunately no dentists (true cruise fact ). Some people bring a small dental repair kit, just in case. I was surprised to find this on a recent Dollar Tree cruise haul!

39. Rain Poncho

There are 2 places that ponchos come in very handy in my experience – at Disney and on cruises!! I think this is because we’ve been caught twice with really bad days of rain on both vacations.

Pick up ponchos for only about a dollar and you won’t be sorry, in case you need them.

40. Crew Thank You Cards

When giving a tip to crew members on a cruise, you may want to write a nice note of appreciation on a thank you card. Packs of 6 are sold at the dollar store.

Essential Items to Bring on Your Cruise

While the dollar store is great for some items, there may be times of the year when some of these things are harder to find. As well, since these are all dollar store items, sometimes the quality isn’t as good as products found elsewhere.

Here are a few of the most popular cruise essentials found on Amazon, that many cruisers find useful.

Packing cubes

Nautical Stripe Carry On Bag

Travel toiletry bag

Over the door organizer

Reusable luggage tag holders

Magnet hooks

Waterproof phone cases on lanyards

Towel bands

Travel luggage scale

Bonine (seasickness meds)

Reef friendly sunscreen

Aloe Vera gel

Video: Dollar Store Cruise Shopping Haul

Here are more than 20 things I found on a recent Dollar Tree cruise shopping haul. In this video I share some cruise tips and hacks as well.

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Final thoughts on Dollar Store Items to Bring on a Cruise

The dollar store is a great place to pick up inexpensive travel items for your cruise. In some cases, having items that are in convenient, small size or single use packaging can be really practical as you pack for your cruise .

Which things do you buy from the dollar store before a cruise? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!!

If you found this article helpful, please pass it along. Please feel free to share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Let’s connect:

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Excellent Ilana!! Couple great ideas i hadn’t used before! Leaving saturday on Mardi Gras – can’t wait

So glad this was helpful. Have an amazing cruise and please let me know how you enjoy it 🙂

Just wondering if you have a tip for what to keep my papers (Birth certificate, license etc…) in? This is my first cruise and that would be helpful. Thanks!

I bring a passport wallet and keep my documents there. However you can use your wallet if items are small. Printed items can go in a folder.

Hope that helps and you have an amazing cruise!

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Dollar Tree stores to introduce merchandise with price tags up to $7

Upper limit of dollar tree's pricing had reportedly been $5.

Another weak retail sales number in February will signal something to Fed's Powell: Brenda O'Connor Juanas

UBS Wealth Management Senior Vice President Brenda O'Connor Juanas and Strategic Wealth Partners investment strategist Luke Lloyd discuss retail earnings, rate cuts, Bitcoin soaring to record highs and February's CPI.

Dollar Tree customers will start to see some items carrying $7 price tags on the discount retailer’s shelves later this year. 

That will be the case for 3,000 stores, where CEO Rick Dreiling said Dollar Tree "expect[s] to expand our multi-price assortment by over 300 items at price points ranging from $1.50 to $7."

The company, which also operates the Family Dollar brand, has been introducing products that come at costs above its $1.25 price floor. The upper limit had been $5 prior to the upcoming initiative, according to reports.

The Dollar Tree sign hangs outside a Dollar Tree store on Nov. 23, 2021, in Los Angeles, California. ((Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) / Getty Images)

"But even as our multi-price assortment expands over time, the vast majority of the items sold in Dollar Tree stores will remain at our entry-level fixed price point," Dreiling said of the new $7 upper limit. "Over time, you will also see us fully integrate multi-price merchandise more into our stores so our shoppers will find $5 bags of dog food next to our traditional $1.25 pet treats and toys, and our $3 bags of candy will be found in the candy aisle."

DOLLAR TREE TAKING ‘VERY DEFENSIVE APPROACH’ TO SHOPLIFTING, CEO SAYS

Dollar Tree has been seeking to "present a more relevant assortment" to consumers at varying price levels, according to the CEO.

A Dollar Tree store in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images / Getty Images)

Under the multi-price point strategy, Dreiling told analysts and investors that Dollar Tree has previously had over 6,500 locations around the country selling frozen and refrigerated items at $3 to $5 price points. The brand will continue to expand those offerings, according to the CEO.

DOLLAR TREE TO CLOSE AROUND 1K FAMILY DOLLAR STORES

About 5,000 Dollar Tree locations also began offering $3 and $5 "center-store merchandise" last year, with 2,000 more slated to do the same in 2024, he said.

Dollar Tree

Dreiling also said that Dollar Tree’s introduction of different price levels and more variety has helped draw more higher-income shoppers. Those with incomes above $125,000 were the "fastest-growing demographic" for Dollar Tree, he said.

A Dollar Tree store in Streator, Illinois, on Oct. 15, 2022.  ((Photo by Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images) / Getty Images)

Data from Numerator found that customers tend to visit Dollar Tree about 20 times a year, spending $281 during those visits.

CINNAMON PRODUCTS SOLD AT DOLLAR TREE, FAMILY DOLLAR HAVE ELEVATED LEAD LEVELS, FDA SAYS

The company has been working to revamp its two brands through various initiatives. For Family Dollar, one of those will include shuttering over 900 locations for "optimization."

Dollar Tree brought in $30.6 billion in total revenues over fiscal 2023, marking an 8% increase year over year. Meanwhile, it saw a net loss of $998.4 million for the year.

Use Every Inch Of Closet Storage With This Dollar Tree Must-Have For Handbags

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Does this sound familiar? You open your closet, only to find pocketbooks piled high, stuffed into corners, or crammed on shelves. You may even have a few strewn about your bedroom or thrown beneath your bed. If the thought of this much disorganization is making you dizzy, you're not alone. Not only does clutter waste time as you look for the perfect accessory, but it can also affect your mental health. Thankfully, you can easily — and affordably — organize your closets and your handbags with nothing more than a few plastic hooks from the Dollar Tree. And if you don't have a Dollar Tree nearby, you can purchase these items online, streamlining the process further. 

A 4-pack of self-adhesive plastic hooks from the Dollar Tree is $1.25, keeping this hack affordable. For example, you can organize 20 handbags for $6.25. Each hook can hold up to three pounds, so be mindful of the bags you hang from them. This means that your everyday bag — complete with your wallet, keys, and more — might not work, but the bags you use less frequently will fit perfectly on these hooks. Here's what you need to know about the Dollar Tree DIY that keeps handbags neat and tidy in your closet .

Attach your Dollar Tree hooks

@leahnizera Making use of every inch in the closet! Using these hooks help me organize, store and easily access all my cross body/small purses! ✨👜 #organization #purses #closetorganization #closethacks #storage #crossbody #katespade #fashionnova #shein #katespadecrossbody #fyp #explore #foryou #walkincloset #organizedhome #organize #organizewithme ♬ original sound - L E A H 🤍

This hack is simple, and it only takes a few minutes. Find some free wall space in your closet or in the area you're looking to organize. This might even be a wall in your bedroom if you're interested in displaying your pocketbook collection. Next, attach the hooks in any pattern you like — just be sure you have enough room for each handbag to fit without crowding one another. This hack is ideal for small bags or wristlets, although larger bags work, so long as they don't exceed the hook's weight requirements. If you have bigger bags to stash, consider upgrading to heavyweight Command Hooks . You can purchase a 2-pack on Amazon for $10 and each hook holds upwards of 15 pounds. 

Once your hooks are installed, you can start organizing! You might want to arrange your handbags by color or by style, going from daytime to glam. You can even use this hack to organize other items in your home, such as scarves, ties, belts, and more. If you have reusable shopping bags, consider using these plastic hooks to keep them tidy between uses. You could even use these hooks in your shower to organize loofahs, bath toys, and more. And if you want to attach these hooks to furniture, just be sure that the adhesive won't damage its finish. 

Decide what to organize — and what to donate

As you work to tidy your space and organize your handbags in your closet, it's always a good idea to ask yourself if there are any pocketbooks you no longer need. You could always donate them, as this helps someone in need. You can also reuse them around your home, creating everything from toiletry kits to using them as diaper bags. However, if all your bags are spoken for and you want to keep all of them, this hack can store everything comfortably in your closet. And if you don't have a closet, you can use this hack inside a wardrobe. 

The other great thing about this hack is that it's not permanent, making it ideal for renters. If you no longer need plastic hooks to organize your closet, simply remove them from your walls. Just be careful not to remove any paint with them. The best way to remove these hooks is with a hair dryer and a piece of floss, heating the adhesive, and slowly removing it with the string.  So if you're ready to organize your space, grab a few packs of these hooks and you'll understand why this hack is one of  the best ways to organize your closet .

15 Items That Are Actually Worth Buying at Dollar Tree

Posted: March 22, 2024 | Last updated: March 22, 2024

Dollar Tree is a paradise for those who love a good bargain, yet not everything on its shelves offers the best value for your dollar. Still, amidst the vast array of products, there are numerous hidden treasures that seasoned bargain hunters consistently rave about. We’ve taken a deep dive into the store’s offerings and tapped into the wisdom of dedicated Dollar Tree aficionados to curate a list of 15 must-have items that promise to be worthy additions to your shopping cart on your next trip.

Greeting Cards

Skip the fancy stationery stores and head to Dollar Tree for your greeting card needs. You can snag a card for any occasion at a fraction of the price, with many shoppers finding options for as low as 2 for $1. Stock up on birthday , holiday, and thank you cards to save big throughout the year.

Gift Bags and Wrapping Supplies

Gift-giving can get expensive, but not when you shop at Dollar Tree. Their gift bags and wrapping supplies are an unbeatable value, with prices often 50-75% less than other retailers. Many people rave about the variety of designs and sizes available, making it easy to beautifully package presents on a budget.

Pregnancy Tests

Trying to conceive can be stressful enough without worrying about the cost of pregnancy tests. Luckily, Dollar Tree’s tests are just as accurate as expensive drugstore brands, according to many shoppers. At just $1 each, you can afford to stock up and have peace of mind without breaking the bank.

Plastic Storage Containers

Organizing your home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Dollar Tree’s plastic storage bins and baskets are a great solution for tackling clutter in closets, cabinets, and more. While they may not be as durable as pricier options, many people find them perfectly adequate for lightweight storage needs.

Cleaning Supplies

Keeping your home sparkling clean is easy and affordable with Dollar Tree’s selection of cleaning supplies. From scrubbers and sponges to brushes and magic erasers, you can find all the tools you need at unbeatable prices. Savvy shoppers stock up on these essentials to save big over time.

When it comes to glassware, you don’t have to sacrifice style for savings. Dollar Tree’s selection of glasses, mugs, and more is not only affordable but also surprisingly durable. Many shoppers have reported their Dollar Tree glassware surviving drops and daily use without breaking, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious households.

Seasonal Decor

Decorating for the holidays can add up quickly, but not when you shop at Dollar Tree. Their seasonal decor selection is a go-to for many savvy shoppers looking to create a festive atmosphere on a budget. From Halloween to Christmas and every holiday in between, you can find affordable decorations that look great without the hefty price tag.

Hair Accessories

Hair ties, bobby pins, and other hair accessories seem to disappear into thin air, which can make restocking a pricey endeavor. Many Dollar Tree fans swear by their selection of hair goods, noting that while the quality may not be top-notch, the low price makes them worth it for those who go through them quickly. Stock up on these essentials without feeling guilty about the cost.

Bagged Candy

Satisfy your sweet tooth without emptying your wallet by shopping Dollar Tree’s candy aisle. Name-brand favorites like M&Ms, Skittles, and more are available in theater-sized boxes for just $1 each. Many shoppers use these affordable treats for movie nights, party favors, or just to keep on hand for a quick sugar fix.

Reading Glasses

If you need a little visual assistance when reading, Dollar Tree’s selection of reading glasses is a great budget-friendly option. At just $1 per pair, you can afford to stock up and keep a pair in every room or bag. While they may not be as stylish as designer frames, many shoppers find them perfectly functional for everyday use.

Foam Boards and Poster Boards

Crafters, students, and anyone who needs foam boards or poster boards for projects should head to Dollar Tree before hitting up pricier craft stores. These essential supplies are typically just $1 each, making them a steal compared to other retailers. Stock up for school projects, presentations, or DIY decor without overspending.

Party Supplies

Throwing a party doesn’t have to mean throwing away your budget. Dollar Tree’s party supply section is a jackpot of affordable plates, cups, napkins, and cutlery. You can often find multi-packs of each item for just $1, making it easy to host a crowd without the sticker shock. Many people love the variety of colors and designs available, making it simple to coordinate with any party theme.

Picture Frames

Displaying your favorite memories doesn’t have to cost a pretty penny. Dollar Tree’s picture frames may not be the fanciest, but they get the job done at an unbeatable price. Many shoppers find them perfect for creating affordable gallery walls or for framing kids’ artwork. At just $1 each, you can switch out your displays often without guilt.

Vases and Floral Supplies

Floral arrangements can be a costly addition to your home decor, but not when you DIY with supplies from Dollar Tree. Their selection of glass vases, floral foam, and other essentials is a budget-friendly way to create beautiful bouquets for any occasion. Many people love the variety of sizes and styles available, making it easy to craft custom creations for a fraction of the cost of pre-made arrangements.

Spices and Seasonings

Spice up your meals without spending a fortune by shopping Dollar Tree’s selection of spices and seasonings. Many of these are name-brand options that cost significantly less than at regular grocery stores. Savvy shoppers stock up on their favorite flavors, noting that the quality is just as good as pricier retailers. With a wide variety of options, you can experiment with new recipes and expand your culinary horizons without breaking the bank.

While not everything at Dollar Tree is a winner, these 15 items are definitely worth adding to your shopping list. By stocking up on essentials like greeting cards, cleaning supplies, and party goods, you can save big over time without sacrificing quality. So next time you’re at Dollar Tree, keep an eye out for these savvy shopper favorites and see how much you can save.

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Nearly 1,000 Family Dollar stores are closing, owner Dollar Tree announces

Dollar Tree announced it will close nearly 1,000 of its Family Dollar stores after the stores experienced a significant underperformance in 2023, according to the press release by the company.

During the fourth quarter of 2023, Dollar Tree underwent a review of its stores performance to identify locations to close, relocate or re-banner, the company said.

“As a result of this review, we plan on closing approximately 600 Family Dollar stores in the first half of fiscal 2024. Additionally, approximately 370 Family Dollar and 30 Dollar Tree stores will close over the next several years at the end of each store’s current lease term,” the company said in the press release.

Family Dollar's rat-infested warehouse: Damaged products, lead to $41.6 million fine

“We finished the year strong, with fourth quarter results reflecting positive traffic trends, market share gains, and adjusted margin improvement across both segments,” said Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Rick Dreiling.

“While we are still in the early stages of our transformation journey, I am proud of what our team accomplished in 2023 and see a long runway of growth ahead of us. As we look forward in 2024, we are accelerating our multi-price rollout at Dollar Tree and taking decisive action to improve profitability and unlock value at Family Dollar.”

Locations of store closures not yet revealed

Dollar Tree has not revealed when the store closures are set to begin or what states will be affected by this decision.

USA TODAY has reached out to Dollar Tree for comment.

When did Dollar Tree acquire Family Dollar?

Dollar Tree announced an acquisition of Family Dollar in July 2015.

Chief Executive Officer Bob Sasser, in a news release, called the transaction "a transformational opportunity for our business to offer broader, more compelling merchandise assortments, with greater values, to a wider array of customers."

How many Dollar Tree stores are there?

Dollar Tree, a Fortune 200 Company, operated 16,774 stores across 48 states and five Canadian provinces as of Feb. 3. Stores operate under the brands of Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, and Dollar Tree Canada.

Family Dollar hit with record fine for storing items in rat-infested warehouse

The recent announcement is the latest in a string of problems for the discount chain.

In February, Family Dollar Stores  agreed to pay $41.6 million for storing food, cosmetics, drugs and medical devices in a rat-infested warehouse in Arkansas for years, court records show.

The Dollar Tree-owned discount chain store took a plea agreement in February after being charged with one misdemeanor count of debasing FDA-regulated products by holding them in unsanitary conditions, according to court documents.

By accepting the plea, the company admitted to shipping products until January 2022 from its Arkansas distribution center, where the FDA found evidence of live rodents, dead and decaying rodents, rodent feces and urine, and evidence of gnawing and nesting, court records show.

Dollar Tree said during its  fourth-quarter earnings report  in March 2022 that the  product recall  at Family Dollar stores linked to the rodent infestation cost the company $34 million.

Contributing: Jonathan Limehouse , USA TODAY

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at  [email protected] . Follow her on  Instagram ,  Threads  and  X @forbesfineest.

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Dollar Tree Raises Price Cap to $7: See Which Items Will Get Price Hikes

The price change will impact over 300 items across 3,000 stores

Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty

Dollar Tree is raising prices on several of its items -- again!

The discount retailer announced in its fourth-quarter earnings call earlier this month that it is increasing stores’ price cap to $7.

The recent increase follows the June 2023 $5 cap, reported Yahoo Finance , and the 2021 increase from $1 to $1.25, per CNN .

"This year, across 3,000 stores, we expect to expand our multi-price assortment by over 300 items at price points ranging from $1.50 to $7," company CEO Rick Dreiling reported during the March 13 call. Dreiling explained that this multi-price assortment would impact the prices of food, pet and personal care items.

"Over time, you will also see us fully integrate multi-price merchandise more into our stores so our shoppers will find $5 bags of dog food next to our traditional $1.25 pet treats and toys, and our $3 bags of candy will be found in the candy aisle," Dreiling said.

Liao Pan/China News Service/VCG via Getty

Dreiling also added that the company’s “fastest-growing demographic” earns a yearly salary that is “north of $125,000."

The retailer’s findings align with InMarket’s recent report that there was a 4% average increase in dollar store visits made by consumers who earn more than $100,000 between the second half of 2022 and 2023, reported The Wall Street Journal .

AP Photo/Chuck Burton

Aside from introducing the multi-price assortment, the company will close approximately 600 Family Dollar locations. Dollar Tree purchased Family Dollar for $8.5 billion in July 2014, per CNN .

During the call, the company announced that approximately 400 Family Dollar and Dollar Tree locations will also be closed in the coming years — due in part to lease expirations.

Family Dollar stores are closing in the following cities: Middletown, N.J. , Tallahassee, Fla. , Peoria, Ill. , Lynchburg, Va. , East Liverpool, Ohio , Wilmington, N.C. , Slocomb, Ala. , Humansville, Mo. , Willow Springs, Mo. , Wichita, Kan. , Clearwater, S.C. , and Elkins, W. Va.

Angus Mordant/Bloomberg via Getty

Throughout the company’s financial year, which ended on Feb. 3, 2024, the retailer operated 16,774 stores across 48 states and five Canadian provinces.

During the fourth quarter, which ended on Feb. 3, 2024, Dollar Tree opened 219 stores. In total, the company opened 641 stores in the previous year.

Additionally, moving forward, the “$3 and $5 center-store merchandise [will be] available at approximately 5,000 Dollar Tree stores,” per the press release. Also, “$3, $4, and $5 frozen and refrigerated items available at more than 6,500 Dollar Tree stores.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

A representative for Dollar Tree did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for more information on Tuesday.

Related Articles

Dollar Tree raising the maximum price of items. Again. See the items that will cost more

• Updated: Mar. 29, 2024, 8:17 a.m. |
• Published: Mar. 29, 2024, 6:00 a.m.

Dollar Tree is raising the maximum price of its items to $7. See the items that will cost more. AP

• Katherine Rodriguez | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Dollar Tree is raising the maximum price of its items to $7 for the second time since last year.

The dollar store retailer announced in its fourth-quarter earnings call this month that it is increasing the maximum price of its items for sale to $7.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Dollar Tree will sell items for $7, straying further from its single-price model

• Dollar Tree is increasing its price ceiling to $7, an uptick from $5 in June .
• The chain wants to offer shoppers a more "relevant assortment," CEO Rick Dreiling said.
• Most new customers in 2023 came from households earning at least $125,000 annually.

The Dollar Tree is straying even further from its thrifty roots.

The company has gradually raised its price ceiling: Last June, the most you could expect to spend became $5. This year, it'll be $7, executive chairman and CEO Rick Dreiling said in an earnings call Wednesday.

It's part of Dollar Tree's "multi-price point strategy" to offer shoppers a more "relevant assortment," Dreiling said. Most of the new customers it added in 2023 came from households earning more than $125,000 annually, he added.

Related stories

"This year, across 3,000 stores, we expect to expand our multi-price assortment by over 300 items at price points ranging from $1.50 to $7," Dreiling said.

Higher-priced items will include "food and snacks, beverages, pet care, personal care, and more," he said.

But rest assured: Dreiling said the "vast majority" of Dollar Tree's offer will remain at its entry price, which is $1.25 .

In June, Dollar Tree said it planned to raise prices for certain food items as high as $5. On Wednesday, Dreiling said the company had "substantially completed" a rollout of frozen and refrigerated foods priced between $3 and $5 at 6,500 stores.

It's further proof that dollar stores aren't really dollar stores anymore — even as competitors like Dollar General have sold items at a variety of prices for years.

Separately, Dollar Tree also announced this week it was shuttering 1,000 Family Dollar stores — representing 12% of its total store count — after acquiring the chain in 2015.

Dollar Tree also said on the earnings call that it continues to contend with rising theft issues at Family Dollar — one of many factors behind the planned closures. As a result, the company has locked up certain products and placed others behind registers in order to crack down.

Watch: Dollar stores may seem like an easy way to save money, but here's why you may be tempted to spend more

• Main content

Dollar Tree announces price increase: Some items will now cost $7

• Published: Mar. 28, 2024, 3:09 p.m.

Dollar Tree Inc. has announced it will raise the price cap in its stores to $7. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis) AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis, File

• Jessica Jones-Gorman | [email protected]

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Dollar Tree Inc., the discount chain that owns and operates more than 16,000 Family Dollar and Dollar Tree stores across 48 states -- including 11 on Staten Island -- has announced it will raise the price cap in its stores to $7.

“This year, across 3,000 stores, we expect to expand our multi-price assortment by over 300 items at price points ranging from $1.50 to $7,” Dollar Tree’s CEO Rick Dreiling said in a fourth quarter earnings call on March 13.

“Over time, you will also see us fully integrate multi-price merchandise more into our stores so our shoppers will find $5 bags of dog food next to our traditional $1.25 pet treats and toys, and our $3 bags of candy will be found in the candy aisle,” Dreiling continued.

The Dollar Tree executive stated on the call that the change was meant to satisfy the needs of the brand’s customer base, which is currently trending toward higher income brackets.

“The fastest-growing demographic is north of $125,000 a year in income,” Dreiling said. “It’s not like the Northeast is strong and the West is weak. That boat is lifting pretty even all the way up.”

This is not the first time Dollar Tree has raised its prices. The national discount chain bumped the price point to $1.25 in 2021 , citing the rising costs of goods and freight as the main reason behind the gouge. Many of the store’s prices were lowered back to $1 in 2023, after customers complained about the change.

This new lift, which comes after the company recently stated that it will close approximately 1,000 stores over the next several years , is the most significant Dollar Tree price to date.

According to Dollar Tree Inc.’s website, both Dollar Tree and Family Dollar were founded almost 70 years ago to provide quality merchandise at discounted prices. The brands merged in 2015 and now operate 16,000 stores and employ some 200,000 associates.

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