16 things you should definitely buy at the dollar store this holiday season

It’s no secret that the holidays are expensive! From hosting (or attending) parties and decorating the house, to buying gifts for family and friends — costs can quickly add up this time of year.

But with a little creativity, you can get through the month of December on a budget and avoid that dreaded holiday debt hangover come January.

And one of the best ways to do it is by shopping at the dollar store!

Whether you’re looking for decorations and party supplies or inexpensive gift ideas, here’s a list of items you should consider buying at the dollar store to keep costs down this season!

16 things to buy at the dollar store during the holidays (or any time of year)

1. Cards

Buying greeting cards at the dollar store is a no-brainer any time of year! Why pay $3 or $4 at a drugstore or other retail store when you can get cards for only $1 each?

And when you’re looking for holiday cards, go ahead and stock up on other cards as well. That way you won’t get stuck paying for an over-priced card at the last minute down the road.

2. Socks

You can get great quality socks at the dollar store! Whether you’re buying for yourself or looking for a few extra gift items, the dollar store actually offers a variety of socks that come in all different colors, patterns and sizes for both adults and kids. You can even order them online from Dollar Tree.

3. Party supplies

Any time you throw a party, the dollar store should be your go-to for supplies! You can get cups, plates, napkins, tablecloths and pretty much everything else you need — all for only $1!

4. Vases & centerpieces

Vases are a great buy at the dollar store. There are tons of options of glass vases, as well as mason jars that you can fill with flowers or other items to be used as a holiday centerpiece.

5. Holiday decorations

You only use this stuff once a year for about a month, so why not go for the best deals on decorations? The dollar store has tons of options including Christmas-themed drinking glasses, wall decorations, candles, table runners, placemats and more!

6. Gift wrapping

Any time you need wrapping supplies, the dollar store is your best bet — especially around the holidays when there’s a lot to wrap! You can get a variety of tissue paper, wrapping paper, gift tags, holiday gift bags, boxes, bows and more for just $1.

7. Holiday tableware

Again, you’re only using these once a year — so if you’re trying to stick to a budget, then check out some of the tableware available at the dollar store!

Dollar Tree has gold-rimmed plates, wine glasses, mugs, bowls and even more options for your holiday dinner table. You can order these online for about $12 a case, and if you don’t need that many, consider splitting the price with a friend who’s looking for the same items!

Read more: Deal alert! Get an extra 25% off at Kohl’s!

8. Kitchen supplies

If you’re doing the Christmas cooking, don’t waste all your money on the cookware! You can all kinds of pans, mixing bowls, storage containers and other kitchen supplies at the dollar store.

9. Picture frames

Want to frame a few photos before having guests over during the holidays? Grab a few frames at the dollar store! You can get a variety of sizes, colors and even collage frames for $1 each.

10. Holiday towels

The dollar store offers a variety of hand towels and washcloths. So if you want to give your bathroom or kitchen a quick holiday makeover, just grab some red or green hand towels for a buck each!

11. Stockings & Santa hats

These items speak for themselves!

12. Stocking stuffers & small gifts

Whether or not you go for the $1 stockings, you can definitely pick up some great stocking stuffers at the dollar store — including candy, card games, toys, health and beauty items and more! Whatever you like to give, there are plenty of options at the dollar store.

13. Ornaments & Christmas tree decorations

If you need some extra Christmas tree decorations, the dollar store has a variety of ornaments! Plus, you can grab a couple of $1 boxes of candy canes to hang on the tree, too!

14. Storage containers

You can get all kinds of storage items at the dollar store — from food storage containers to organizational baskets and bins.

15. Other winter apparel

In addition to socks, the dollar store also has a variety of knit hats, including solid colors and winter patterns. And while they may not last you forever, a $1 knit hat is a pretty good deal!

16. New Year’s Eve supplies

​

While you’re at it, you might as well grab any supplies you might need to ring in the New Year! The dollar store has balloons, glow sticks, noise makers, party hats, champagne flutes and plenty of other supplies to help you celebrate 2017!

See of our latest holiday shopping tips.

Costco CEO shares tips to help you save even more!