Jul 12, 2026

Dollar Tree Beats Target on These 7 Summer Items

Written by Cynthia Measom
|
Edited by Brendan McGinley
Dollar Tree Beats Target on These 7 Summer Items

If Target’s prices have felt a little steep this summer, Dollar Tree may have a lower-cost version of some items already on your list.

The trade-off is that Dollar Tree’s versions may be less durable or made from different materials. But for seasonal items you may only need for one summer, spending less at Dollar Tree can make more sense than paying Target prices.

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  • Price: $3

If you’re looking for a simple Ladies Straw Hat for the summer, Dollar Tree has black or brown options for $3. Although this hat will offer shade from the sun, you’ll still need to wear sunscreen for UV protection. A comparable hat at Target costs five times as much or $15.

  • Price: $5

A Bladeless Neck Fan is a handy gadget to help keep you cool on hot summer days during yard work, outdoor exercise or while watching sporting events. Dollar Tree offers the neck fan for $5, while Target’s cheapest neck fan option is twice the price at $10.

  • Price: $5

The Stylish Beach Tote Bag is an easy way to transport what you need for trips to the beach, pool or lake. It’s a large canvas bag about 21 inches long and 15 inches high with rope handles. A slightly larger linen tote bag (27.5 inches long and 16 inches high) at Target is $20.

  • Price: $6

Dollar Tree’s Ladies One-Buckle Sandal comes in black and features a stylish gold buckle.

At Target, a pair of one-buckle sandals, made of genuine leather, is $69.99. Even though the Target sandals are of much higher quality, you can get a similar look for a fraction of the price at Dollar Tree: a great deal for something you probably only plan to wear intermittently.

  • Price: $5

Protect children’s eyes from the summer sun with Kid's Polarized Sunglasses for $5 each. At this price, it’s easy enough to buy two in case the first pair becomes lost or broken. Dollar Tree has different styles and colors, including pink heart-shaped and black wraparound sunglasses. At Target, children’s sunglasses with UV protection are $8.

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  • Price: $5

Dollar Tree has a variety of Character Toddler Clogs for $5 each. Choose from characters like Bluey, Stitch and Spiderman. At Target, a pair of toddler Bluey clog sandals is $20 — or over three times as much as the Dollar Tree option.

  • Price: $5

Having a Portable Handheld Misting Fan during the summer can be a lifesaver. The fan is chargeable, so you can take it on the go. All you have to do is fill its reservoir with water, turn on the fan and enjoy the cool mist. For comparison, Target has a Deluxe Handheld Misting Fan for $12.99: more than twice as much.

Editor’s note: Prices and availability may vary depending on location, and are subject to change.

This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.

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Written by
Cynthia Measom
Edited by
Brendan McGinley