8 Things Frugal People Buy From Dollar Tree Now Before Summer
Written by
Nicole Spector
Edited by
Molly Sullivan
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Wait, we just turned the calendar page to March, right? Alas, no. We’re already well into the month of May. The weather is warming up and summer is nearly within reach. But do we already have to start shopping for summer events? Well, no, but if we want to nab savings — particularly ahead of the impact of new tariffs — then it’s a smart idea to buy summer essentials now.
If you’re a budget shopper, you’re likely well acquainted with Dollar Tree, where you’re guaranteed to find a ton of items for as little as $1.25 a pop. Dollar Tree already has a trove of summer-friendly stuff on its shelves, both physical and digital. Check out these eight summer things frugal people will be buying now for summer.
Plastic Fruit-Shaped Bowls
If you’re hosting a get together or bringing a dish to a potluck this summer, you can add some pizzazz by using these plastic fruit-shaped bowls. They’re sold at Dollar Tree for $1.25 each. You can choose a strawberry, pineapple or watermelon. Keep in mind that these dishes are adorbs but they’re not microwave safe.
Fruit Slice Paper Plates (10-Pack)
Wait, there’s more fruity fun to be had. Ditch the traditional round paper plates and opt for the sweet summer fruit slice paper plates at Dollar Tree. A pack of 10 goes for $1.25. Choose from grapefruit, watermelon or lemon slice designs.
Women’s Straw Hat
A perfect beach or poolside day has a few essentials: a riveting book, a chilled drink and a huge straw hat. Often, a “nice” hat is a waste of money as it will get easily weathered in the sun. You can get the ladies straw hat for $3 at Dollar Tree.
Sunglasses (Men/Women)
Don’t risk losing or breaking your fancy designer sunglasses on your next beach trip. Pick up a cheap pair at Dollar Tree that you won’t be bummed about should the inevitable something happen to them. Dollar Tree has an assortment of men’s sunglasses available, with each priced at $1.50. Same goes for the assorted women’s sunglasses.
Slip-On Clog Shoes (Men/Women)
Doing some work in the yard or lounging around the patio? A pair of basic slip-on clogs would be nice. You can nab the men’s slip-on clog shoes in black at Dollar Tree for $5. Women can pick up the Mysoft ladies clogs, which also cost $5, and come in pink or white.
‘Sesame Street’-Themed Beach Ball
The “Sesame Street” beach ball offers a fun spin on the traditional beach ball experience. What kid (ages 3 and up) who adores Elmo, Oscar the Grouch or Cookie Monster won’t be delighted? They’re $1.25 each at Dollar Tree.
Kids’ Snorkel and Goggle Set
If your kiddo is not doing any serious water activities, but still wants a glimpse beneath the shimmering surface, pick up a splash-n-swim snorkel and goggle set at Dollar Tree. Each set, priced at $1.25, has an adjustable snorkeling mask with nose covers and a matching snorkel. This item is safe for kids ages 6 and up.
Water Blaster
What’s backyard summer fun without some old school water blasters? No need to spend $20 on one of these devices, as you can easily do when shopping on Amazon. The outdoor fun H2O blaster costs $5 at Dollar Tree. This item is safe for kids 6 and up.
Editor’s note: Pricing is accurate as of May 8, 2025. Pricing and availability are subject to change.
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