I drive 2 hours for my monthly trek to Trader Joe's. Here are 12 things I always stock up on.

Carly NeilJan 13, 2024, 17:25 IST

I live an hour from my closest Trader Joe's.Carly Neil

I love Trader Joe's, but I live a two-hour round trip away from the chain.
I gladly make the trek there once a month for skin-care faves and tasty cheeses.

I've been shopping at Trader Joe's for years. When I lived within minutes of my nearest location, it became my regular spot for all of my groceries.

These days, I live an hour away. But I've become so devoted to the products that I gladly make the two-hour round trip monthly to stock up on the essentials. For me, it's worth the gas money when I know I'm spending less on good-quality items.

Here's what I always buy for my husband and myself.

I shop for skin-care products at Trader Joe’s.

I'm a fan of the "invisible" daily facial sunscreen at Trader Joe's. Carly Neil

Picking up a bouquet of flowers is a must on every visit.

I love how affordable Trader Joe's flowers are. Carly Neil

Don’t discount the frozen egg frittatas.

The frozen breakfast item is a staple for me on busy mornings. Carly Neil

Trader Joe’s also sells tons of quick lunch solutions.

I like the frozen chicken gyoza potstickers at Trader Joe's.Carly Neil

Dinner is way easier with frozen roasted potatoes.

Trader Joe's roasted potatoes with peppers and onions are a great dinner side. Carly Neil

Trader Joe’s mac-and-cheese bites are one of my favorite snacks.

Mac-and-cheese bites are in the frozen aisle at Trader Joe's. Carly Neil

No matter what, I always stock up on my favorite pantry essential.

Trader Joe's Everything But the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend is a must. Carly Neil

Its sauces and marinades are also easy to add to dishes.

I'm a fan of the Trader Joe's gochujang sauce. Carly Neil

I can't forget about my favorite chocolate-covered snacks.

Trader Joe's dark-chocolate-covered mini pretzels are a tasty treat. Carly Neil

I sometimes plan my monthly trip around dinner parties or gatherings.

I like to stock up on dips for when I know I'll have people over. Carly Neil

The cheese section is a highlight on any visit.

Trader Joe's Unexpected cheddar is a fan-favorite item. Carly Neil

I mix things up by buying more adventurous cheeses, too.

I was intrigued by the cheddar cheese with caramelized onions. Carly Neil

I made Mary Berry's 'remarkably easy' apple dessert cake, and I can see why it's been a fall favorite for years

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