The cost of food is going up no matter where you live, but there may be one place you haven't thought of shopping at: the dollar store. Dollar stores (like Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, and 99 Cents Only) are discount stores where the prices of most, if not all, of the items are limited to around one dollar. Even though some stores like Dollar Tree have had to raise their prices to $1.25, there are still plenty of great deals to be found in the grocery aisle.

Self-proclaimed "frugalistas" and affordable shopping influencers have gained traction on social media, and they love showing off their dollar store hauls. We scoured their accounts for their best tips and most impressive finds at their local dollar stores.

Two Things to Keep in Mind

1. Prices and availability change all the time, as most dollar stores scoop up overstock products from other nearby stores.
2. Always check expiration dates before buying to avoid getting something that may expire before you can use it.

Baking mixes are a convenient way to get delicious baked goods, fast. (They also serve as great shortcuts for some of our favorite recipes like cake mix cinnamon rolls and cake mix cookies.) Recently, companies have come out with new flavors that are sure to “wow” even the most discerning bake sale crowd. Mixes like this Epic S’mores Brownie Kit could set you back more than five bucks at your local Target. Over at 99 Cents Only, however, you can find the same great Epic mixes for just $2.79. There are plenty of other brand-name great mixes too, from cake cups to classic Pillsbury vanilla cake.

Cake mixes aren’t the only sweet treats to be found at the dollar stores. Premium frozen desserts have also been popping up, like these awesome plant-based Kind frozen ice creams for just $1.25.

Fabulous mom and affordable shopper Sensational Finds takes it to the next level by creating fun and inventive desserts using all ingredients found at Dollar Tree. This M&M and Oreo frozen ice cream cake is the perfect treat for a hot summer evening.

One of the best ways to start a busy morning is with a filling bowl of oatmeal. Quaker has been making tasty flavors of instant oatmeal that can be made in a flash. Multiple locations of Dollar Tree have been carrying Quaker chocolate instant oatmeal for only $1.25. Each box comes with four pouches that you can upgrade with some sliced banana or a scoop of nut butter.