Groceries here or there?

[SPAGo 98]

With current market prices, would it be more cost efficient to buy groceries in Boston (we're driving down), or wait until we get to Florida? I'm talking about the basics - fruit, milk, juice, cereal, bread, etc. Thanks!

 

[Kay1]

I would certainly wait until you're ready to check into your hotel then visit a super Walmart or Publix. I shop at Publix every week and don't find the prices high at all.

 

[Biyanna]

I normally say buy there, less hassle and things don't get smushed. But since your driving down buy in Boston, only if you have the extra room in the car. You know where to get the deals and will have nice inexpensive food, drinks, snacks for the trip down.

 

[CarolA]

I don't know where you are in Boston, but I know that when I have been to the grocery with my friend who lives in Brookline that things cost more there! If you are in a "high cost" area you might do better to wait and go to the Publix or superwalmart.

 

[Traveliz]

I always buy at home and take with me - I sure don't need to spend time in the grocery store while in Florida. I begin gathering up nonperishables weeks in advance (picking them up when on sale with coupons etc). We have a box just set aside specifically for vacation food.

Liz

 

[greerx4]

I have netgrocer.com deliver my groceries right to my hotel the day I arrive. They prices are very reasonable and they offer free shipping one time per customer. I even got film and a waterproof camera, diapers and wipes for the baby, etc. Hope this helps!

 

[skeezixspud]

I don't think it's difficult to find things in strange supermarkets while on vacation; just walk around the wall. In most supermarkets, most of the usual suspects for vacation food are near the outer walls. (Soft drinks, liquor, snacks, milk, bread, deli meats and cheeses.)

There are some things you should buy at home, though. Sunscreen is the most important; you need to be sure you don't have a reaction to an unknown brand, and different stores sometimes carry different lines. I would also suggest OTC medications, because they are time-consuming to find in a store, and usually overpriced as well if you buy small amounts. Condiments and detergents are best brought from home, because you can only take what you need, and most supermarkets only have packages that are too large for a week's worth.
Also, packages themselves, in the form of an assortment of ziploc bags; bring them from home and put all the rest inside one of the larger ones.

If there is some local delicacy that you really adore and must have, do bring it. Local specialties are not often found in resort destinations. I have been known to drag my child's favorite type of applesauce across three continents! Do try some local things if you get a chance, though -- you may discover something you like.

 

[disnurse]

the superwallmart is great. Their prices are about the same as our wallmart . the grocery section is unbeatable and you can get all the health/beauty aids, pool toys and beer and wine all in one convient stop.

 

[mickey7861]

HI,

We're from about 45 miles south of Boston. Last summer was our first DVC trip and I was determined to use the kitchen. We drive down (usually go for 2-3 weeks) so my trunk was STUFFED because I had to bring this huge box of nonperishable food. WHAT WAS I THINKING!!! Did I think Florida didn't have food!!! We went to Super Walmart...everything was priced the same or cheaper than home. I was crazy....never again. Oh well live and learn I guess.