Buying in bulk isn’t just for big families or warehouse club members—it’s one of the most reliable strategies for cutting down your grocery bill over time. When done correctly, bulk shopping lets you pay less per unit, reduce trips to the store, and stay stocked on essentials.
Here are 10 grocery staples that are worth buying in bulk—along with tips for how to store them and where to find the best value.
- Rice
Long shelf life, versatile, and budget-friendly, rice is a pantry essential that stays fresh for months in a sealed container. Brown rice has a slightly shorter shelf life than white rice but still offers good longevity when stored in a cool, dry place.
- Tip: Transfer bulk rice into airtight containers to prevent moisture damage.
- Best places to buy: Costco, Sam’s Club, or ethnic grocery stores.
- Dried Beans and Lentils
Protein-rich and shelf-stable, dried legumes are significantly cheaper in bulk than their canned versions. They also give you better control over sodium content and texture.
- Tip: Store in glass jars or resealable bags with oxygen absorbers for long-term storage.
- Look for sales at: Natural Grocers, Sprouts Farmers Market
- Pasta
A bulk staple that stores for up to 2 years, pasta is ideal for fast meals and budget-friendly dishes. Buying larger quantities reduces the cost per ounce and eliminates frequent repurchases.
- Tip: Store in airtight containers to prevent pantry pests.
- Oats
Whether for oatmeal, baking, or smoothies, oats are a versatile breakfast option. Rolled or steel-cut oats can last up to 2 years in the pantry and even longer when refrigerated.
- Buy in bulk at health food stores or online via Thrive Market.
- Canned Tomatoes
From sauces to soups, canned tomatoes are a cooking staple. Buying in multipacks reduces the unit price and ensures you’re always ready for a quick meal base.
- Look for organic or low-sodium varieties during warehouse sales.
- Flour
Especially if you bake regularly, buying flour in bulk can save a significant amount. All-purpose, whole wheat, and even gluten-free blends are widely available in large bags.
- Tip: Store in the freezer for longer shelf life and freshness.
- Frozen Vegetables
Frozen veggies retain their nutritional value and are often cheaper per pound than fresh. Buying large bags allows you to portion meals and reduce waste.
- Available in bulk at BJ’s Wholesale Club and most big-box retailers.
- Nut Butters
Peanut butter, almond butter, and sunflower seed butter are cheaper in bulk jars and great for snacks, baking, and smoothies.
- Tip: Stir and refrigerate natural nut butters to prevent oil separation.
- Cooking Oils
Olive, canola, avocado, and coconut oil are often more cost-effective in large bottles. Just make sure you use them regularly to avoid spoilage.
- Use smaller dispensers to pour from and keep the larger container sealed and stored away from heat.
- Toilet Paper and Paper Towels (Bonus: not a food item, but a grocery essential)
Buying paper products in bulk usually offers the biggest per-unit savings—and you’ll always be stocked.
- Look for warehouse deals and combine with cashback tools when available. For example, you can earn cashback with a Safeway gift card or get rewards with a Walmart gift card through Fluz to stretch your budget even further. Explore more retailers at the Fluz homepage.
Final thoughts
Bulk buying helps you lock in better prices and stay prepared—especially when it comes to grocery essentials that you use regularly. With a little storage planning and a focus on versatile staples, you’ll spend less per trip and avoid running out when you need it most.
