Ever walked out of Costco with a cart full of things you hadn’t even planned on getting? Yeah, we’ve all been there. Shopping at Costco is basically a sport. You need a strategy, stamina, and sometimes even a snack to survive the endless aisles and constant temptations.
As a regular shopper, you probably know a couple of hacks to help you save money as you shop. We’re talking about things like having a shopping list and the ever-so-helpful, ‘don’t shop when you’re hungry’ trick.
But Costco is on a different level so you need a bigger gameplan and that’s exactly what we have for you today. So, here are 15 ways you can save big at Costco without sacrificing your favorite things!
Buy Kirkland Signature Goods
If you’re skipping over Kirkland products because they’re not a big-name brand or you’ve never used them before, you’re totally missing out! Costco’s in-house brand is often just as good (if not better) than those other pricier options. Rumor has it that these products are actually made by the same manufacturers that make most name-brand household goods, so you needn’t worry about quality. Whether it’s olive oil or bath towels, Kirkland products offer the best value for your money.
Learn the Costco Pricing System
Unlike what most people think, the numbers at the end of the price tag aren’t random. In fact, you can’t afford to ignore them once you learn what they mean. For example, .99 means that’s the item’s standard wholesale price while .97 is saved for items with a manager’s or clearance discount. Most times, these discounts aren’t advertised! Another thing you should keep an eye out for is an asterisk on a tag because that also means the item is discounted because it won’t be restocked at that location.
Shop Costco Online
While we know the in-store shopping experience has its own advantages and can often feel like a treasure hunt, online shopping makes it so much easier to spot instant deals because it’s as easy as doing a quick search! Aside from that, following Costco accounts on social media means you’ll be among the first shoppers to learn about awesome sales and new arrivals. For introverts (or anyone dodging the Saturday crowds), shopping online is an absolute game-changer: no lines, no stress, and fewer impulse buys. Win-win!
Ask for Price Adjustments
Another amazing Costco hack you can take advantage of is their generous price adjustment policy. If you buy something at the store and it goes on sale within 30 days of your purchase, you can claim the difference by simply filling out a form on Costco’s website. How cool is that? The only catch is you need to have your receipt, so keep those safe. Costco also has an awesome return policy that offers shoppers the chance to get money back if they’re unsatisfied with something they bought. This even includes opened food products!
Buy in Bulk
Costco’s bulk deals are a no-brainer for saving money. Stocking up on non-perishables like paper towels, toilet paper, or paper plates cuts down your cost per unit and stretches your budget over time. Got a smaller household? No problem. Just team up with a friend to split jumbo-sized packs and keep your wallet happy. Bonus: fewer trips to the store means more time for, well, literally anything else!
Upgrade to Executive Membership
Costco memberships start at $60 a year, but here’s what you probably didn’t know: upgrading to an Executive Membership can actually pay for itself. At $120 annually, it gives you 2% cashback on most of the items you buy. Spend just $3,000 a year (easy if you’re stocking up on groceries, gas, and household essentials), and you’ll have broken even! Everything after that is extra money in your pocket. If you’re a frequent shopper, this upgrade is a no-brainer for maximizing your savings.
Buy Refurbished Electronics and Furniture
If you want to score big savings on electronics and furniture, Costco’s refurbished deals are the way to go. These items are professionally restored to like-new condition and often come with warranties, making them the perfect choice for anyone on a budget. While they’re technically pre-owned, you can save a ton compared to buying brand-new. Think of it as getting top-quality items at a fraction of the price. What’s not to love?
Start Your Shopping in the Back
In Costco, the best deals are often hidden in the back of the store. That’s where you’ll find the big discounts, especially in the center court area. On the flip side, the front of the store, aptly nicknamed “action alley” is often full of flashy new products that tend to be pricier. So, skip the front and head straight for the back. We know it sounds a bit tedious but your wallet will thank you for the detour!
Look for Discounted Gift Cards
Costco also offers you the chance to eat out or watch your favorite movies at a discount through their discounted gift cards. The store often sells gift cards from restaurants, well-known retailers, and even movie theatres at a discounted rate. For example, you can get a $50 gift card for something like $35. It’s a simple way to stretch your budget while still enjoying your favorite spots. Just be sure to stock up when you see them because those deals don’t always stick around!
Keep an Eye Out for Seasonal Clearances
Another trick people know but tend to forget is that you get the best deals on costumes, decorations, and gear when you shop after the holiday is over. Marking down the prices of seasonal items is a hack used by many stores, including Costco, to create space for new stock. So, whether it’s Christmas deco, Halloween costumes or patio furniture, shop after the season is over to save big and stay prepared for next year.
Buy Wine at Costco
If you’re a wine lover, you will love Costco’s wine section (if you don’t already!) Like the rest of the Kirkland line of products, Kirkland Signature wine is so much more affordable compared to other name brands. Additionally, the wine has glowing reviews online with regard to quality so you really have nothing to worry about on that end. Whether you’re stocking up for a party or just looking for a great deal on wine, give it a try.
Refill Your Car at Costco
Grocery shopping can be a costly activity, so any chance we get to save a few dollars is always welcome. If you frequently do your shopping at Costco, one sure way to cut costs is to fill up at Costco gas stations. Their prices are famously low compared to other gas stations, with some locations offering savings of as much as 15 cents per gallon.
Know the Best Times to Shop
Timing is everything when it comes to shopping at Costco. According to insiders, the best time to visit the store is weekdays, especially in the morning or late evening, when the crowds are thin. Also, if you’re looking for fresh deals, try to shop at the beginning of the month when new stock comes in. Avoid weekends if you can because they tend to be packed. You’ll likely have to deal with longer lines which could make you feel rushed and pressured into overspending. A little strategy can go a long way in saving you time and stress!
Book a Vacation Deal
We know this one may come as a surprise but Costco’s warehouse store has a travel agency that offers discounted travel packages to members. With Costco Travel, you get awesome deals on things like hotels, car rentals, and even cruises! So, the next time you’re looking for a friendly vacation deal, consider checking out Costco for maximum savings and a quality vacation experience.
Buy Costco Rotisserie Chicken
It’s only right that we end the list with one of Costco’s most famous items: the Costco rotisserie chicken. Sold for only $5, it is considered one of the tastiest, most affordable meals you can ever have. Though it’s true preparing your own meals at home is actually cheaper, this chicken is the exception to that rule. Plus, thanks to its fame, there are numerous recipes online of how you can turn it into multiple meal options for you and your family.
