Best Times to Buy: Costco Hacks

Whether you’re a seasoned Costco member or a first-time shopper, these hacks will help you make the most out of everyone’s favorite bulk-buy store.

1. Shop without a membership

You don’t always need a Costco membership to shop there. If you know someone who has a membership, they can buy you a Costco Shop Card. You can use it to shop in-store or online without being a member.

2. Compare gas prices

Costco is famous for its low fuel prices, so plan your trips strategically to fill 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 an item in Costco 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, 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, no questions asked. It’s important to note, though, that exceptions apply to certain products.

5. Shop online for extra perks

Costco’s website often features online-only deals, which can include items not found 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 quickly to make room for new stock, especially at the end of each season. Keep an eye out for these seasonal deals to snag quality items 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. Check for Costco Travel perks before planning your next vacay for big savings.

8. Split bulk buys

For smaller-sized households, Costco’s bulk items can be too much to finish before it goes bad. Team up with friends, family or neighbors and split your Costco purchases.

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 price hasn’t budged 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 wine, Kirkland items can rival or outperform their branded counterparts in both quality and price.

11. Visit the pharmacy

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.

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.

Use these hacks to save even more at Costco. Happy shopping!