Best Times to Buy: Costco Hacks
The fabulous bulk deals and huge variety of quality products make Costco a shopper’s paradise. But, did you know there are ways to stretch your savings and enhance your shopping experience even further? Whether you’re a seasoned member or a first-time shopper, these Costco hacks will help you make the most out of everyone’s favorite bulk-buy store.
1. Shop without a membership
Believe it or not, you don’t always need a Costco membership to shop there. If someone you know has a membership, they can buy you a Costco Shop Card, which is essentially a gift card for Costco. You can use this card to shop in-store or online without being a member. Just note that non-members who shop online may incur a small surcharge.
2. Compare gas prices
Costco is famous for its low fuel prices, so be sure to fill your tank when you shop. Use apps like GasBuddy to compare gas prices in your area and see how much you can save. Plan your trips strategically to fill up your tank while running errands at Costco. To avoid long gas lines, shop early in the day.
3. Learn the Costco price codes
Learn Costco’s pricing systems so you know when a Costco item is at its lowest:
- Prices ending in .97 are manager markdowns and are often the best deals.
- Asterisks (*) on tags means the item won’t be restocked, so grab it while you can.
- Prices ending in .88 or .00 are special discounts, which are often on returned or display items.
4. Take advantage of the 90-day return policy
Costco’s generous return policy allows you to return most items within 90 days with no questions asked. This is especially helpful for electronics, giving you plenty of time to test your purchase. It’s important to note, though, that exceptions apply to certain products, like major appliances and custom jewelry, so always check the return policy for specifics.
5. Shop online for extra perks
Costco’s website often features online-only deals, which can include items not available in stores. While non-members can shop online with a surcharge, members enjoy exclusive prices and free shipping on many products.
6. Look for seasonal clearance
Costco rotates inventory very quickly to make room for new stock. At the end of each season, items like clothing, patio furniture and holiday decorations are marked down significantly. Keep an eye out for these seasonal deals to snag quality items you can use next year at rock-bottom prices.
7. Use Costco travel for big savings
Costco Travel can be a hidden gem for booking vacations, rental cars, cruises and even theme park tickets at a bargain. It often includes perks like free upgrades, gift cards or complimentary meals, making your membership even more valuable.
8. Split bulk buys
Costco’s best deals tend to be on bulk purchases. For people living alone or in smaller-sized households, these items can be too much for them to finish before it goes bad. Team up with friends, family or neighbors and split your Costco purchases. This way, you’ll enjoy your deep discounts while ensuring nothing goes unused.
9. Enjoy free samples (and a cheap meal)
Costco’s free samples are legendary and can double as a light snack while you shop. After your trip, head to the food court for an affordable meal. While prices are up everywhere, Costco’s $1.50 hot dog and soda combo hasn’t increased in decades!
10. Don’t skip the Kirkland signature brand
Costco’s in-house Kirkland Signature brand is known for offering high-quality products at lower prices than name brands. From coffee to vitamins and even wine, Kirkland items can rival, or even outperform, their branded counterparts in both quality and price. In fact, some Kirkland products are even manufactured by well-known brands. For example, Kirkland coffee varieties are made by Starbucks and can be half the price.
11. Visit the pharmacy and optical department
Costco is famous for its $8 prescription refills, which are even available for non-members in many states. Get your refills while you shop to save big bucks. Additionally, their optical department provides affordable eyewear and vision exams. Keep an eye out for deals on contact lenses and designer frames while you shop.
12. Buy discounted gift cards
Costco sells gift cards to popular restaurants, entertainment venues and retailers at a discount — often for 20% or more off their face value. These make great gifts or a way to save on your favorite activities and meals.
From discounted gift cards to free samples and travel perks, Costco has something for everyone. Use these hacks to save even more at Costco. Happy shopping!