Written by Madeline Burmeister
Located just two miles down the road from campus is your one-stop shot for cheap and tasty dorm snacks: Trader Joe’s. Here are five random yet necessary items to consider snagging on your next shopping trip.
1. Chili and Lime Flavored Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips
As the Trader Joe’s version of the famous Taki product, these chips are perfect to keep in your dorm for a nighttime snack or to munch on after a long day of classes. With a hint of citrus and a little bit of heat, their flavor will satisfy your salty cravings. Grab for just $2.99 in the chip aisle!
2. Dried Fruit
Trader Joe’s sells various dried fruits including cherries, bananas, mangoes, oranges, and berries. Choose your favorite fruit, store anywhere in your dorm or backpack, and enjoy a piece as a sweet but nutritious treat. Prices range from $1.99–$5.99.
3. Vegetable or Chicken Fried Rice
Frozen fried rice is the solution to the quick and easy meal that college students often find themselves needing. It’s ready in just two minutes in the microwave or five minutes on a stovetop and serves as a delicious side dish to a protein or as a meal itself. Sold for only $2.99 (vegetable) and $3.99 (chicken) in the freezer meal section!
4. Refrigerated Cookie Dough—Gluten Free Option!
Find yourself without flour, a mixer, or those kitchen essentials required for baking? This cookie dough has your back! Simply place the pre-made dough balls onto a cookie sheet and bake them in the oven. Plus, they sell a yummy gluten-free version as well! Find this item in the refrigerator section for just under $6. Refrigerate to use in the near future or store in the freezer for long-lasting use.
5. Greek Yogurt Cups
With a wide variety of flavors to choose from, these yogurts are a breakfast necessity for your mini fridge. The store recommends enjoying them along with granola or cereal. At just 99 cents per cup, one week worth of breakfast will cost just less than $5!
