12 Things at Dollarama That Are Actually More Expensive

The thrill of bargain hunting at dollar stores is almost irresistible — walking through aisles where everything appears affordable and budget-friendly. While Dollarama has built its reputation on offering deals and discounts, a closer look at its pricing reveals a surprising truth: some items actually cost more than at regular retail stores, eating away at your hard-earned money through clever packaging tricks and size differences.

Beneath the surface of those seemingly low price tags lies a carefully crafted pricing strategy that many smart shoppers have started to notice. Before tossing another “bargain” in your cart, knowing which items to avoid at Dollarama could save you significant money — proving that sometimes the best deal isn’t at the dollar store after all.

Name Brand Batteries

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Major brand batteries at Dollarama come in smaller packs with a higher cost per unit. A 4-pack of AA batteries might seem cheap at $3, but larger packs at regular stores offer much better value. The same brand often costs 40% less per battery when bought in bulk at big box stores. These smaller packs are designed to create an illusion of savings while actually costing more.

Pet Food and Treats

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Dollar store pet food comes in smaller packages that seem affordable at first glance. However, calculating the price per gram reveals they’re often 30% more expensive than supermarket options. The quality of ingredients is also typically lower, meaning pets need to eat more to feel satisfied. Regular stores offer better value and higher quality pet nutrition.

Kitchen Tools

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Many kitchen utensils at Dollarama break down quickly due to lower-quality materials. That $3 can opener might need replacement every few months, while a $10 version from a regular store lasts years. The constant need for replacement makes these items more expensive in the long run. Investing in better quality kitchen tools actually saves money over time.

Dental Care Items

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Toothbrushes and dental floss from dollar stores often have lower-quality bristles and materials. The brushes might start fraying within weeks instead of the recommended three-month usage period. Dentist-recommended brands from drugstores provide better cleaning and last the full recommended time. The small price difference is worth it for proper oral hygiene and fewer replacements.

Cleaning Products

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Brand-name cleaning supplies at Dollarama come in smaller bottles at a higher price per millilitre. That $3 bottle of cleaner contains half the amount you’d get at a regular store for $4. The concentrated formulas are often watered down, requiring more product for the same cleaning power. Buying regular-sized bottles provides better value.

Gift Wrap and Cards

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Holiday wrapping paper from Dollarama is typically thinner and tears easily during wrapping. The rolls contain less square footage than those sold at card stores or big box retailers. Premium gift wrap from other stores, while more expensive upfront, covers more presents and looks better. The same applies to greeting cards, which often cost the same as nicer ones elsewhere.

Hair Accessories

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Common hair items like elastics and bobby pins are packaged in smaller quantities with a higher per-piece cost. A pack of 40 hair ties for $2.25 seems reasonable until compared to a 100-pack elsewhere for $5. These accessories also tend to break more easily, requiring frequent replacement. Buying larger packs of better-quality items saves money over time.

Earphones and Electronics

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Electronic accessories from dollar stores often lack proper safety certifications and break quickly. A cheap earphone might last weeks instead of years, making it more expensive than a quality version. These items can also damage your devices or create safety hazards. Investing in certified electronics protects both your devices and your wallet.

Snack Foods

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Name-brand snacks at Dollarama come in smaller packages that cost more per gram. That $2.25 bag of chips contains fewer ounces than a regular store’s $3.50 bag. Buying full-sized packages during grocery store sales provides much better value. The “mini” versions create an illusion of savings while actually being more expensive.

Disposable Party Supplies

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Paper plates, plastic cups, and party decorations often cost more per piece at Dollarama. The packages contain fewer items than party store bulk packs. Lower-quality materials mean you need more pieces to do the same job. Buying party supplies in bulk from party stores or wholesale clubs offers better value for events.

Picture Frames

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Dollar store frames are often made with flimsy materials that warp or break easily. The joints might separate after minimal handling or temperature changes. Quality frames from home goods stores protect photos better and maintain their appearance longer. Spending more on durable frames saves money by avoiding frequent replacements and protecting precious photos.

Food Storage Containers

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Plastic containers from Dollarama often warp, stain, or lose their seal quickly. Cheaper materials mean shorter lifespans and potential leaks. A set of quality containers from regular stores lasts years longer and maintains food freshness better. The initial higher cost is offset by not needing frequent replacements.

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Diana Tablan

Diana Tablan is a seasoned writer who loves to explore fun lifestyle topics and various human interest stories. During her free time, she enjoys reading, painting, and cooking. Diana’s writings can be found in several popular online magazines in Canada and the US.