As a mom of three (plus my niece, who might as well be my fourth child some days), I’ve learned that shopping is never just shopping. It’s strategy. It’s budgeting. It’s making sure toothpaste and baby wipes don’t run out at the same time as school shoes and electricity. And in South Africa, two stores usually battle for our attention when it comes to everyday essentials: Clicks and Dis-Chem.
Like many moms, I’ve had my “team Clicks” seasons and my “team Dis-Chem” loyalty streaks. But the truth is, where we really save isn’t always so straightforward. Let’s unpack this from both a personal and practical perspective.
The Loyalty Game: ClubCard vs Dis-Chem Benefits
Clicks has its famous ClubCard, and honestly, it was my first taste of feeling like a “smart shopper.” You swipe, you earn cashback points, and every so often you get that little surprise voucher that makes you feel like you’re winning at life.
Dis-Chem’s Benefits Programme feels more like insurance—you’re supporting medical causes while earning back something too. Their Baby Bag programme when you’re pregnant is a lifesaver, but once the kids are older, the benefits don’t stretch as far as Clicks’ instant gratification model.
For me? Clicks wins on rewards, hands down.
Prices: The Myth of “Always Cheaper”
Dis-Chem has built its reputation on being cheaper, but I’ve found that it’s not always the case. On nappies, for example, I’ve scored major savings at Clicks during their 3-for-2 promotions, while Dis-Chem had the same pack sitting at full price.
On the other hand, when it comes to bulk buys—things like family-sized soap packs or health supplements—Dis-Chem often edges ahead. If you’re willing to brave the endless aisles and queues, you might leave with better savings overall.
So the trick? Don’t assume. Compare.
The Mom Factor: Convenience Matters Too
Let’s be honest: sometimes the decision has nothing to do with price. With three kids, convenience is everything. Clicks is usually in the mall or near work, which makes it easy for me to pop in during lunch. Dis-Chem, while fully stocked, often feels like a “destination trip”—you have to plan it.
And when you’re juggling homework, supper, and bath time, nobody has time to queue behind someone asking about their medical aid refund at the till.
My Verdict: A Mix-and-Match Approach
After years of trial and error, I’ve learned that moms really save when we don’t box ourselves into one store. I keep my ClubCard active for those everyday top-ups at Clicks, and when I know I need bulk or wellness items, I plan a Dis-Chem run.
At the end of the day, the real win isn’t just in rands and cents—it’s in the time saved, stress avoided, and clever planning that makes motherhood a little smoother.
Because let’s be honest: the price of peace of mind will always beat the price of toothpaste.
