Five Below markets itself as a discount retailer, with most items priced at $5 or less. However, a closer look reveals that many seasonal goods are actually more expensive than alternatives at other stores. This guide highlights five such items and where to save money instead.
Christmas Trees: Dollar Tree Offers a Better Deal
Five Below sells a four-foot artificial Christmas tree for $7. Dollar Tree offers a nearly identical tree for $6, sometimes even in white as well as green. Both require assembly and are unlit, but Dollar Tree provides an immediate cost saving without compromising on basic quality.
Christmas Ornaments: Bulk Savings at Dollar Tree
Five Below ornaments cost $1 each. Dollar Tree, however, sells sets of two dangling holiday boots for $1.50 (75 cents per ornament) or seven-pack of round ornaments for $1.50. This means you get more decorations for your money by shopping at Dollar Tree.
Christmas Lights: Dollar General Matches the Value
Five Below’s 70-count Christmas string lights sell for $4, but Dollar General offers comparable lights for $3. The difference is minor in terms of length (Five Below at 15.2 feet vs. Dollar General at 14.5 feet), but the savings make Dollar General the better choice for budget shoppers.
Fall Throw Pillows: Amazon Provides More Affordable Options
Five Below charges $5.55 for flower-printed throw pillows. Amazon sells similar pillows, including ghost-themed designs, for around $4.99. For a fall-themed pillow, Amazon offers options for $4.99 as well. These prices beat Five Below’s by a noticeable margin.
Scented Candles: Dollar Tree Stocks Seasonal Fragrances
Five Below sells 13.5-ounce pumpkin-scented candles for $7. Dollar Tree offers two 8-ounce cedar-scented candles for $3 each. Additionally, they have amber and cranberry chutney-scented options at the same price. These choices allow you to diversify your scents while saving money compared to Five Below’s single-scent option.
Conclusion: While Five Below can be a convenient place to shop, consumers can find better deals on seasonal items at Dollar Tree, Dollar General, and Amazon. By comparing prices, shoppers can maximize their budget and get more for their money during holidays and seasonal transitions.
