11 Unexpected Things Aldi Does Better Than Costco

Consumers have some great stores to shop at when they're trying to save money on groceries. However, not all stores have the same benefits for what you need. 

For example, many Aldi fans believe their store is better than Costco when it comes to shopping for food and other items.

But are they right? Check out some things Reddit users swear Aldi does better than Costco to see if you agree.

It can be daunting to wander the aisles of a large warehouse store like Costco to get everything you need, and that's after you battle through the parking lot to find a spot.

But Reddit users like the quickness and ease of a trip to Aldi. "I can get in and out of Aldi in 15 minutes," said Redditor craigzzzz.

It can also be hard to get out of Costco without spending a lot of money, which can be tough if you're shopping on a budget.

"I don't think I can leave Costco without at least spending $300," said Reddit user PurduePaul.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that Costco is a bulk store, so it's important to compare pre-unit costs when looking at the prices of items at Costco and Aldi.

Costco is great if you can buy items that can be stored in a pantry or fresh items to eat quickly. But buying in bulk isn't for everyone; sometimes, you don't want or need all that extra.

"Smaller packages of everything!" said Redditor jss58, while another Reddit user posted, "We shop at Costco also, but don't have much storage space, so Aldi wins there!"

Costco has great deals, but most of its items can only be purchased by members.

Redditor Impressive_Milk_ said they preferred Aldi because shoppers don't need a membership.

Reddit user martphon joked that Aldi's "membership fee" was the quarter shoppers use to unlock their shopping carts at Aldi. Shoppers get the quarter back when they return their cart.

You may have certain items you love to see every week, but sometimes, it's nice to see unique or different choices rotate on and off the shelves.

Reddit user NotSureWhyIAsked said they like that their Aldi has new stuff every week, while there's less frequent turnover on the shelves of their local Costco.

Costco can be a great place to buy items in bulk, but you may face long lines when you check out, especially on the weekends.

Aldi could be a better option if you don't like the crowds or don't want to wait. "My Aldi is never overcrowded, and I rarely have to wait in line," said Redditor GingerrGina.

One unique thing about shopping at Aldi is that you need a quarter to unlock your cart and then get it back when you return it and lock it back up.

That's a great option if you hate dealing with random carts left in a parking lot. "Aldi parking lots aren't a disaster with random carts all over the place, unlike every Costco I've ever been to," said Redditor atmp.

Some customers may have specific dietary issues or are trying to avoid certain ingredients, which could make Aldi easier to navigate.

"Gluten free? Vegan? Aldi had way more options," said Reddit user lan_mcdo.

Costco can be a great option when shopping for a family or a large group of people for a party, but it's not easy to buy in bulk for a smaller household.

"Shopping for one or two," said Redditor rainbowkey about why Aldi is better. "Obviously a lot of Costo quantities are only for parties or occasions."

Shoppers on a tight budget might appreciate a good sale or extra discounts, which many think is a better option at Aldi.

"Aldi does some wicked closeout sales," said Redditor Bubbly_Roof. "For example, they sold leftover holiday butterball turkeys for 69 cents a pound."

Costco can be a good spot for non-perishable pantry items, but it can be difficult to finish things like fruits or bread that you buy in bulk before they spoil.

"I go to Aldi mostly for fresh things I can't finish off in a week if I buy bulk," said Reddit user xxrachinwonderlandxx.

You can find ways to take advantage of deals when trying to save money shopping, regardless of whether you think Aldi or Costco is better.

You may even find that shopping at both stores could be a good balance when it comes to keeping cash in your pocket.