We are always learning lessons. In fact, that’s what we like to share and pass on to you in our many, many posts here on our site. We share tips, tricks, and lessons learned along the way.
What’s funny is that most of the lessons, tips and tricks we share are a result of things we did wrong. So basically passing on our mistakes and then what we did to rectify the situation.
Well…batteries are now our next lesson. I know…peculiar.
But we went through a time period where we learned that being frugal does not mean being cheap. In fact, in many cases, being cheap ends up costing more over time, creates inconveniences, both minor and major, and causes you to deeply consider what true frugality means.
Let me explain: So one year, we found batteries at the dollar store. I mean $1 for 4 batteries is a great deal, right? Batteries are batteries.
I stocked up as I knew it would save us a ton of money. The holidays were approaching and batteries are always in high need at holiday time.
Before I even begin to tell you our experience, I am sure you can already imagine without me having to elaborate – but we all like a good story at the expense of someone else, right? So read on….
Yes, we had quite a bundle of value batteries. Anytime someone needed batteries I could just pull out my bundle o’ batteries and load up the contraption. They went into everything.
First up was a fantastic road trip down south. I am street savvy enough to have a DIY emergency kit in the car, but apparently not savvy enough to have the necessary kit supplies to be effective. We had an issue – after the sun went down. Yep, you guessed it! A flat tire. We pulled out the supplies to fix the flat fast and I was the flashlight and tool holder. I flipped on the flashlight…which wasn’t all that bright in the first place. After a few minutes, it became much dimmer and then a short while later – out! Out of light! I used the cell phone flashlight, but this sucks battery from your phone like nothing else. We made it through, barely. But it was a royal pain. I just thought something was wrong with the flashlight.
So Christmas morning arrives and filled with the normal joy and excitement – and no, I hadn’t forgot the batteries. I had my trusty value battery bundle.
We filled toys with batteries and let the kids play. We barely started into the day and just finished unwrapping presents when our son said his toy wasn’t working anymore. I was miffed thinking I had purchased a lemon. However, the first thing you always do is replace the batteries when something isn’t working.
We replaced them. A short time later, the toy died again.
I had told Alex that I was going to exchange the toy as soon as I could. Alex suggested it was the cheap batteries I bought. I really didn’t think much of that. Needless to say, that wasn’t the only toy that died that day…several had. His just died the quickest because it was the most demanding.
Our kids were frustrated, we were frustrated and the Christmas surprises were Christmas disappointments. After a handful of non-functioning toys, I concluded that perhaps it really was the cheap battery purchases I did make.
This began to remind us of a series of cheap, thrifty options we have purchased over the years. A few years ago, on Black Friday, one store had a off-brand video MP3 Players for $15. It was a killer deal. We purchased three of them. They were the worst MP3 players on the planet. There was nothing that could be done with them. They had no storage, they couldn’t hold battery power, they couldn’t sync with anything. In the end, we wasted $45.
Another time, we bought cordless phones (landline) with a charging base. They were the value brand, the cheapest for the cordless phone options. We set them up and even though the box said that you can travel 50 feet from the base and be fine. These phones were the worst. If we walked more than 3 or 4 feet from the base, the phone lost reception. It was annoying and irritating when trying to cook dinner, care for kids and answer the phone at the same time. Later, we read reviews of the phone on Amazon (which we always do now) and the reviews were terrible and most people were having the issues we had.
It’s experiences like this that have taught us that being frugal does not mean being cheap. We’ve also learned that the most expensive or “top of the line” isn’t the best value either as it comes with many more bells and whistles that are often very unnecessary and you are paying for way more than you need.
Over the years, we have found that the best value has been often in the middle of the road. We bought new phones that were more than the value, but less than the top – the perfect range and we bought these phones over seven years ago and they still work perfectly today. That’s why we love our frugal, luxury mattress options, that’s why we love our cordless phones we bought almost eight years ago… Should I go on?
And so when were out next and looking for batteries, we decided to give RAYOVAC® Alkaline batteries a try as they are a good brand with a consistent reputation for high quality, long-lasting batteries but very reasonably priced. Basically hardworking solutions at a fair price. And they haven’t failed our expectations! NO – they are fantastic! I have loved the ability to pull out a flashlight, a toy, an electronic device and have it last and last for very long iterations between changes. In fact, I don’t even know how long they have lasted because I am not sure if I remember the last time we changed any batteries. And the biggest and most important battery spot in the house – the smoke detectors.
We bought the RAYOVAC® FUSION™ Alkaline Batteries which have a 12-year power guarantee (in storage) which means that you can store then in your cupboard for quite a while and still get adequate power! 12-years! RAYOVAC® also has their Premium Alkaline for a very reasonable price with a 10-year guarantee. It’s been the one thing that is a sure thing in our crazy, busy life that runs on batteries! You can get them pretty much anywhere like Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s and even the grocery store! The link above also gives you coupons for extra money off your purchases.
In the end, we have learned that these batteries provide the best value for the price. We will be watching for great deals through the holidays to stock up and load up on RAYOVAC® Alkaline batteries are guaranteed to be long lasting, without our pocket books knowing.
So there are ways to get them for even less – with coupons! Use this coupon to save even more on durable, long-lasting batteries from RAYOVAC® .
But…we have a treat for you! You can win a Prize Pack from RAYOVAC® to help you have a pleasant Christmas morning with happy kids! Would you like some FREE durable, long-lasting batteries?
Here’s what we’re giving away:
- Electric Wine Opener
- Rayovac stemless wineglass
- Fusion AA 30 pack of alkaline batteries
- 1X Portable Phone Charger
- Spot to Flood Flashlight
It’s very easy to enter….just leave a comment.
Maybe you can comment on one of these topics (to get the party started!)
- Have you had a time when batteries have failed you and you wished you had durable and long-lasting batteries instead?
- Have you tried RAYOVAC® Alkaline batteries?
- You can see videos on YouTube about some of their cool products beyond Alkaline Batteries, like this personal safety alarm!
- What lessons have you learned regarding the difference between being frugal and being cheap?
This giveaway will run through Wednesday, November 23rd at 11:59 pm MST. The winner will be selected randomly and will be notified via email. Must be 18+ to enter and reside in the United States. The information collected is utilized for entry into this giveaway only.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of RAYOVAC® The opinions and text are all mine.
Rick Smith
I have been thru the non working flashlight many times because of the Dollar Store batteries. I switched to RAYOVAC® Alkaline batteries and now when I need the flashlight it works.
David
Yup… learned my lesson with cheap batteries too! Gotta try at Rayovac
CJ
I thought I was buying reliable batteries when I bought a bunch of Duracell, and guess what? They were as bad as the dollar store brand. I’ll try Rayovac now. Thanks for the tip.
Amy Hinton
So far, Aldi’s bateries have been the best value, but I have to find an Aldi to get their batteries. I would love to try Rayovac!
Sherri Durham
I have never used the Ray o vac batteries. I used to buy batteries at the dollar store or Walmart. I have been buying batteries at Radio Shack now for several years and watch for their big sales on them. They seem to work very well, but I would love to try the fusion batteries!
Kari Dalrymple
We have used different battery brands over the years and 2 years ago we tried RAYOVAC ® and have been using them ever since between 3 kids toys and our need for flashlights we don’t buy anything else.
Wanda Pell
Thank you for sharing all of your thrifty ideas!
Gina
I have always used RAYOVAC. By far the best value for the money and they have never let me down. I usually watch for a sale and stock up as they store just fine as well! Thanks for the coupon link!
Janet
I made the mistake once of buying batteries at the dollar store that were black with a copper top like the name brand batteries, but when I got them home I realized they were just cheap knock-offs that didn’t hold power.
I have purchased Rayovac batteries before, and found them to be equivalent quality to the more expensive brands. They may not have fancy commercials or mascots, but the batteries hold a charge and work when you need them. And that is really all you need in a battery, right?
Kelly D
We need to keep working flashlights during the winter months because we lose electricity sometimes.
Toni
We have a battery budget, because we have kids!!
Barbara White
I have had similar experiences using Dollar Store batteries with them wearing out quickly. I have learned my lesson and usually use brand name batteries or good store brand batteries. I haven’t used Ray-o-Vac batteries in a long time but my Dad used to use them when I was a kid. It might be time to try them again.
Sharon
Thank you for this tip. Tis the season to be buying them for our own use as well as to put in gifts we give to others. This knowledge could save a lot of disappointment and embarrassment.
Debby
I have tried the dollar store batteries an my flash lights die fast , need to try rayovac batteries, I have a hand held shoulder massager that uses batteries an the run out quick also. Love your frugal ideas
Dianne Ramsey
I have also tried the dollar store batteries. Don’t last but an hour or so. I would love to try the rayovac batteries. I am a senior living on a very limited income so anything that will save me money I am always interested.
MARY JO PAQUIN
When using plastic wrap to cover a dish it is worth it to use enough so you don’t end up wasting it because it doesn’t stay on the dish
Diana DeGraw
I haven’t tried these batteries but will now that I read your story!
Larry Stoffregan
Dollar Store batteries are suppose to be rejects, hence they don’t last. Don’t have proof, just heard as the saying goes. In a flashlight if the battery is reversed until needed, they last longer. I have a camera that takes AAA’s, if I don’t change(reverse 1 battery) the battery, most times They are close to dead when needed. The camera must have a power drain even though it is turned off.
Wendy Fowler Harty
I loaded up on the cheap ones too and organized a kitchen drawer with them. Then EVERY time I would have the grandkids over, they get in the toy box and of course it’s not working even though it hadn’t been used since they were here the previous weekend. So we go to the battery drawer and have to actually test several brand new ones before finding the strongest and what do you know…same thing with the same toys the next weekend. Ugh!! I’m excited to get rid of this drawer full of useless junk batteries. I’m going to take your advice and replace them all with Rayovacs!! Thank you for all of your great insights!!
Michele
I try to be thrifty and love a bargain, but I, too, have found the wisdom in passing up those cheap, cheap items (like batteries) and paying a fair price for a better item. I use Rayovac batteries, and I usually only buy the more expensive brands if they are on sale or I have coupons.
Betty Panick
We are in need of some good batteries. The few we have keep getting switched around to wherever they are needed!
S. Desi
We just purchased a bunch of toys to give away overseas. One thing we just realized after reading this, we forgot to get batteries. We could definitely use some for all these toys we got.
Suzanne
My experience with dollar store batteries is similar, without the Christmas struggle added.
I love Rayovac batteries and have also found that they are the BEST value. I also think they last longer than Duracell and Energizer…. of course I’ve not done a scientific study, I only have my anecdotal evidence.
Thank you for the giveaway! 🙂
Dian Adams
Been there, done that! I’ve learned with electronics, you have to go with the name brand. You definitely get what you pay for 😉
JANETTE
My husband says we don’t do CHEAP. We do INEXPENSIVE.
I learned that dollar store batteries are near expiration, so you can’t stock up to use as you need them!! I will buy them in a pinch to use immediately, until I can buy good ones. But I prefer quality batteries. I haven’t tried RAYOVAC but I intend to. We walk our fur babies once before bed, so we use flashlights every night. My husband recently had cervical spine fusion surgery so I am walking by myself at night. I must have good light! 🙂 Thank you so much for you tips, I never would have thought to try RAYOVAC. Now I will.
ronalee duncan
I just got a great deal on RAYOVAC® Alkaline batteries for our smoke alarm. I trust them to work !
Vickie
Yes we have tried.
Lessons learned during and after hurricanes.
Have plenty!
We didn’t have electricity for over 30 days.
A nightmare!
Thanks
Danielle
Definitely feel your pain with regards to cheap batteries. This has happened countless times to me and you’d think I’d have learned. My other issue is that my husband saves batteries and then I can never figure out which ones work and which do not. Trial and error headaches galore!
Georgene Monticue
I have 7 grandchildren that have all kinds of battery run toys, could use some good batteries to keep them going. Also tv remote is always running out of battery. Help!!
Jane
I grew up with Rayovac batteries; they’ve been around longer than Energizer or Duracell. I switched to Energizer because of a cute ad, then to Duracell because my boyfriend insisted. I’m back to Rayovac because they make be feel more stress-free and safe. Sometimes, we have to go with what we know!
Marcia
We have a couple of sets of Rayovac rechargeable batteries. I didn’t even realize they are so good! Thanks for the write-up. Mex
Wanda
I hope you and your family fair better than ever this holiday season, thanks for the info on Rayovac I have noticed they do well too and have been avoiding dollar store batteries as well! And Happy Thanksgiving!
Stephanie H.
Among some of the other name brand batteries, we have used Rayovac batteries for many years now. I think they are just as good as any other brand on the market.
Gaylene
I had the same learning experience with the dollar store batteries. Lesson learned.
Michelle Sweeten
My old camera took double A’s which was great, but no matter the brand. They were always running out of juice at bad times!
Machelle Smith
Thanks for the chance to win!!
petra
The next time we need batteries, I’ll think about Rayovac. Thanks for the tips!
Julia
My little guy always seems to want to play with something that needs new batteries. He’s been discovering his older brother’s new toys and we seem to need an endless supply on hand.
Connie Blasing
It would be great to win a battery pack like this. I could give some to my brother who is not able to afford extras since he resides in an assisted living facility.
Melissa Allison
Unfortunately, I made the same mistake last year, with the batteries. I have 5 children. Imagine 5 children whining because their batteries kept dying every hour or so…on Christmas! I won’t do it again!
jennifer hawks
Omg, I just had a set of batteries die on me, went to replace them and nothing. Nope, no backups. I usually have backups. I’m disabled so I can’t drive and just go get some, lol. I went to order some (I buy online) and saw your post.
If I won this, I’d be set for at least a year.
patti kopp
Yay for batteries!!
John Smith
I have run out of battery before. I work part time for a water system and we use a metal detector to find the shutoffs. It’s no good when your batteries die too quick and you metal detector is not working. As for fllashlights, the newer led lights are so bright with the small AA or even AAA batteries it’s hard to beleive. And they do last longer.
Sunnie
Good post,my husband likes t use rechargeable batteries!
LISA GUILLETTE
I AM WITH YOU. CHEAPEST IS NOT ALWAYS BEST. I AM VERY FRUGAL TOO.
Karen
I use RAYOVAC often and find them to be a good value
Cassandra Zimmerman
We have DEFINITELY noticed that cheap batteries don’t last. 🙂 I think we have tried Rayovak. Thanks for sharing!!
Charlene Smith
Learned my lesson about not buying cheap tennis shoes at Wal-Mart for school use. I spend a bit more money at big 5 or wait for good sale at Macy’s to buy better quality shoes at lower price. Saves more money in the long run.
Grace
I would love to win this great giveaway. Batteries are something I’m always running out of.
Denise
I haven not tried Ray o Vac, need batteries so I will buy some soon.