Finding the best snacks can be difficult, from finding the right flavor combinations to the right sizes of each package. While many stores offer snacks, Costco and Trader Joe’s often go to the forefront of the conversation for unforgettable flavors and great prices. But which store’s snacks are better suited for you? Check out our comparison between Costco vs Trader Joe’s snacks below, and you decide who wins the snack war.
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Costco vs. Trader Joe’s
Costco and Trader Joe’s may both sell snacks, but they have different attributes. For instance, Costco requires shoppers to be a member to enter the store, while Trader Joe’s welcomes anyone. Costco is also a wholesaler, selling bulk items for lower unit prices than other stores. However, Trader Joe’s offers a wide variety of unique items you may not find anywhere else. The primary consideration when deciding between the two stores is how they benefit you.
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Price
Price can often be a dealbreaker for some shoppers, especially those trying to stay on a budget. Snacks can quickly become expensive, so finding the right store to stock up for the week or a big party is crucial.
At Costco, the warehouse’s competitive prices often provide a better value for larger quantities. Each item is often quite cheaper than if purchased at other retailers. This includes Trader Joe’s, which is generally more expensive than Costco for comparable items.
Variety
Variety can be important when shopping for a party or just having a wide array of snacks. Within this category, variety refers to the different types of items available at the stores.
Costco provides a wide variety of snacks for its shoppers, including several different types of candy, chips, cookies, and other popular snacks. Providing both in-house and quality brands, the store’s large size allows for a bigger variety. Trader Joe’s, in comparison, is much smaller than Costco, and while it may have unique flavors, it doesn’t have as much variety as Costco in some aspects.
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Quantity
Need a bigger item for a party, or something smaller for a road trip or to taste test? Quantity is a great way to decide whether to shop at Costco vs Trader Joe’s, and see how much of each item you need to stock up on.
Costco is known for its bulk quantities and is great for stocking up on staples like nuts, dried fruit, and crackers. However, if you live in a smaller household or prefer smaller quantities, Trader Joe’s might be the better choice. The store is great for trying new things without committing to a large bag or finding great on-the-road snacks.
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Flavors
Flavor is a big category when it comes to snacks, especially with all the new combinations and blends coming out every day in stores, ranging from the classic salted to wasabi-flavored. What kinds of flavors you prefer may influence your decision to shop at Costco vs Trader Joe’s.
Costco may have a good selection, but they have less variety of flavors within those categories of snacks. Trader Joe’s instead offers more unique flavors and types. The store is especially known for its creative flavors and combinations, such as wasabi almonds or chili-spiced cashews. You never know what you’ll find on the shelves. Trader Joe’s also offers a rotating selection of seasonal favorites for those who enjoy seasonal snacking.
Specific Food Comparisons
While looking at the bigger picture is good, sometimes checking out individual snacks for comparison is better. Check out some of these examples between Costco and Trader Joe’s, and which store has the tastier version.
For trail mix, Costco’s is often sweeter, while Trader Joe’s offers a more balanced taste. Trader Joe’s has a crunchier granola blend with unique ingredients, but Costco’s Kirkland brand features classic, balanced flavors. Costco may have bulk bags of nuts, but Trader Joe’s has a greater variety of flavors and preparation styles, such as shelled, salted, unshelled, etc. Finally, Costco’s chips are often sold in large bags perfect for parties, but sometimes they can be saltier than those found at Trader Joe’s.
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The Bottom Line
Costco and Trader Joe’s both offer great snack options to fill your cupboards and satiate those taste buds. Each store has its own strengths and weaknesses, too. Costco may be great for bulk buying and great prices, but Trader Joe’s excels in a wide variety of unique specialty snacks. The choice then falls to your individual needs as a shopper, but thankfully, whatever option you choose is great.
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