While many of you may have favorite brands, your loyalty could be costing you money unnecessarily, especially when you consider that the following 15 items are just as good—and often the same quality—as the name-brand versions.
So why be loyal to a brand when you can save big by buying these generic options?
1. Water
Although Australian tap water is considered some of the best (if not the best) in the world, some people insist on buying bottled water. If you're not ready to save the planet from plastic, you can save money on your purchase—and bottled water is often just as good as any of the major brands.
2. Medicines
Of course, some medications are only available in brand-name form, but for common medications, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin, and even many prescription drugs, you can save significant amounts by choosing any brand-name form.
3. Milk
Aside from supermarket brands that boast their farms, generic milk comes from the same source as branded milk, so…
4. Sunscreen
If a sunscreen has a Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) rating, it's safe to use. Generic sunscreens are often just as good as more expensive brands and have similar ratings.
5. Spices
Dried spices and seasonings are pretty much the same, regardless of the brand on the package. You can either buy generic branded spices, or head to a retail food store or wholesaler to purchase whole herbs, spices, and seasonings. This is where chefs get their supplies!
6. Frozen fruits and vegetables
If you're using frozen vegetables as fillings for breads, casseroles, or pies, go for the generic version. The same goes for frozen fruit, which is often frozen at a fresher state than items you'd buy in the fresh produce aisle.
7. Canned vegetables and beans
Some canned baked beans will taste like canned tomatoes, but, by and large, generic canned goods are every bit as good as canned.
8. Plastic rolls and aluminum foil
Now, this is one thing I don't entirely agree with. Generic plastic packaging is often thin and not "sticky." Some generic tin foils are also quite flimsy, and buying the best version can be more cost-effective. But if you rarely use them, the generic versions will suffice and save you money in the long run.
9. Baking and cooking supplies
Many cooks will settle for less expensive, general cooking supplies, such as baking mix, baking soda, powdered sugar, brown sugar, and parchment paper. If it's good enough for them, chances are it's good enough for you, too.
10. Snacks
Many generic snack foods don't offer the same flavor and quality as their brand-name counterparts. Spreads, dried fruits, pickles, olives, nuts, and some sweet and dried crackers are a cheaper option in brand-name form, so go ahead and try them for yourself.
11. Cleaning products
While you may have your favorite brand of cleaning supplies, many generic versions will do the job—just choose.
12. Personal care products
Powders, hair products, cleansers, and moisturizers can cost a fortune, but there are good quality generic versions at a fraction of the cost.
13. Gasoline
A US study revealed that there is very little difference in fuel quality between "cheap" gas stations and branded outlets. Just make sure you get the correct octane level for your vehicle.
“Buy the cheapest [fuel] you can easily get,” said Steve Mazur, senior automotive engineer at the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Center for Automotive Research.
14. Grain
It's worth trying generic versions of your favorite pills. Chances are, you'll find one you like for much less than you'd pay for the brand.
15. Soft drinks
While brand name soda recipes vary (see Cookies vs. Pepsi), other sodas and mixers like mineral water, sparkling water, flavored mineral water, and other flavored drinks can be just as good as the big brands, only the generic ones are much cheaper.
Do you know of any high-quality generic products that are equal to or better than the branded versions? Why not share your tips with our members?
