Market info, just for the heck of it

So a quick market update on saving money or in some cases what makes money sense.

First of all the Dollar store. One of my favorite go to stores when you need something quick and cheap. They have been my go to place for things such as cold medicine, dental medicine snacks and drinks for my kids. The dollar store is on my "Avoid list" for two items. 

Batteries and ibuprofen.

I actually liked the dollar store batteries. As far as I know they were the best value. Sure Duracell and Energizer had longer lasting power but they were up to 4 times the price (5-6 times at my grocery store) which means the battery would have to last at least 4 times longer to match the dollar store value.  Yet the dollar store just did something I don't like. They reduced their batteries by 25%. Now in their defense they may be affected by the tariffs? But here lies the problem. Now Amazon basic batteries are CHEAPER yes I said cheaper than the dollar store batteries. The dollar store being 33 cents per battery while the Amazon basic battery comes in at 22 cents for AAA and 29 cents for AA. I've seen many videos raving about the value and longevity of these batteries But therein lies the problem for me. I don't have a lot that uses for batteries. So if I were to buy these batteries I'd be investing in 2-3 years worth of batteries. For me it doesn't make sense. Instead I will be trying an Alkaline battery charger connected to my small solar plant. I probably will use the dollar store batteries and buy 1 pack to charge until they stop working but that's just me.

Second the dollar store will continue to be my go to for pain killers and some over the counter medicines for common illnesses. I remember being in a lot of pain durring a trip and buying 2 NyQuil pills for around 6 bucks at an airport. Even though the dollar store reduced their ibuprofen by 25% (from 40 to 30 pills) they are still cheaper than a convenient store. Yet I still look for ways I can be prepared and not have to fork out unnecessary funds. So I personally have made a goal to stop buying ibuprofen at the dollar store. Instead all of my vehicles will have a bottle I will refill from Walmart. So will my suitcase and packing list include ibuprofen to help prevent buying it overpriced at a convenient store.