6 Mistakes You Should Never Make When Shopping At ALDI, According To A Frequent Shopper

ALDI is a grocery store that's known for their affordable prices, but the shopping experience can be intimidating if you're not sure what to expect. Though the experience is a little different than traditional grocery stores, the savings and 'ALDI Finds' are worth it. As a frequent ALDI shopper, I’ve learned the ins and outs of the ALDI shopping experience.

Whether you’re a newer ALDI shopper who’s looking to make the most of your next trip or are planning your very first visit, read on to learn the mistakes you should avoid making when shopping at ALDI.

1. Forgetting Your Quarter

First things first: When shopping at ALDI, you’ll need to use a quarter to "rent" your shopping cart. When approaching the outside of the store, you’ll see carts lined up outside the doors. To get one to use, you’ll need to insert a quarter into the slot on the handlebar, and a cart will be released to you to use while you’re in the store. Simply return your cart to the designated corral when you’re done shopping, and you’ll get a quarter back. This helps keep parking lots clean and cuts down on costs.

2. Only Looking For Name Brands 

When shopping at ALDI, you should keep an open mind and reach for brands you may not be familiar with. In fact, you won’t find much if you’re only looking for name brands as over 90 percent of the products you’ll see in the store are exclusive brands to ALDI. You will find great deals on name brands throughout the store, but make sure to shop the ALDI-exclusive brands too. 

3. Skipping The 'ALDI Finds' Aisle 

You’ll locate the "ALDI Finds" near the middle of most stores. New ALDI Finds are released every Wednesday and are available for one week, or until they sell out.

If you think ALDI is just for groceries, think again. ALDI Finds range from food to household essentials to decor to apparel and more. Some of my favorite purchases include a set of bed sheets and a kitchen comfort mat.

4. Sticking To A List

In addition to the "ALDI Finds," ALDI is constantly stocking their shelves with new items around the store, especially seasonal items. Sticking to a list is sometimes necessary, but it’s also worth it to take some time to browse and snag new finds that may not be on your list. You just may find your new favorite must-have item.

5. Not Bringing Reusable Bags

ALDI encourages shoppers to bring their own bags. This helps make their checkout process more efficient while also helping to reduce waste. If you do make this mistake and forget your bags, they do have both paper and reusable bags available for purchase at the store at an affordable price. I find it easiest to just leave a few in my car so I’m always ready for an ALDI run.

6. Blocking The Checkout Line After Paying

When checking out at ALDI, you'll notice the associate just returns your items to a shopping cart, and does not bag them. This helps cut down on checkout time and keeps the line moving swiftly. After paying for your groceries, you should proceed to the provided bagging area to pack and arrange your groceries into bags and not block the checkout aisle trying to bag them. This keeps the line moving and is considerate to both other shoppers and employees.