8 Little Luxuries (for $5 or Less!) to Pick Up at Trader Joe’s Before Summer Ends

Spending a summer afternoon at Trader Joe’s is one of my favorite activities, and not just because I can temporarily escape the hot, Southern Californian sun. Finding ways to treat myself (hello, $3 apple blossoms!) in the summertime comes easily when I step into a store. The aisles are filled with tons of reasonably priced drinks, snacks, and other goodies to enjoy during the sunny season. 

Whether you’re looking for last-minute refreshments to fulfill your hosting duties or want a pick-me-up just for yourself, here are eight little luxuries — all under $5 — that are sure to make your summer days even brighter.  

Whether you want to add fresh, aromatic greenery to your shower head or want to decorate your outdoor dining table for a summer night get-together, these eucalyptus bunches spruce up just about any area for a modest price. 

Four individually sized wines for under $5? Yes, please! These canned Simple Wines are perfect for picnics, beach days, or just chilling on your patio. The flavors include Rosé (my personal favorite), Mango, Peach, and White. 

I first spotted this date syrup on shelves earlier this year. It’s the best one I’ve ever tried and the perfect alternative to the slightly more expensive maple syrup. This luscious syrup is a great summer addition to a margarita, iced tea, or drizzled on top of pineapple pancakes. 

Splurging on an expensive designer candle has never quite appealed to me — especially when I can get great quality and an amazing scent at a fraction of the price. This Mango Tangerine candle brings me back to childhood summers, eating a fresh mango by the pool.

While these Unsweetened Matcha Green Tea cans are under $1 each, the quality (and taste!) is top-notch. Pour over ice and mix in a teaspoon of honey (or that date syrup) for the perfect summer afternoon sip. 

Hosting a summertime soirée is one of my favorite pastimes, and it wouldn’t be complete without this luscious Goat’s Milk Creamy Cheese. It pairs perfectly with water crackers and a chilled white wine. 

With all the sweat and oil our hair collects during the summer, dry shampoo can be a life-saver. This one feels as luxurious, upscale, and effective as some the pricier brand-name hair care products I tried.

Summer isn’t summer, IMO, without a sweet, icy treat! These perfectly bite-sized Vanilla Ice Cream Bon Bons have a chocolate wafer cookie crust, creamy vanilla ice cream, and a chocolatey coating for double the decadence. If you ate one in the parking lot, I wouldn’t blame you!

What little luxuries have you been buying at Trader Joe’s this summer? Tell us in the comments!