Hacks That Will Have You Saving Money When You Shop At Costco

Look for items with an asterisk

Costco provides products at lower prices compared to other retailers, but you can discover even better deals on items marked for final clearance. However, it's essential to understand how to interpret the Costco price labels to identify which products are being phased out, as the store doesn't use large, eye-catching signs like many other chains. Green tags indicate organic products, while white tags represent regular pricing. Additionally, pay attention to the symbols on the labels. Although Costco lacks a specific clearance section, special prices are marked with an asterisk in the top right corner of the tag.

Typically, an asterisk signifies that the item will no longer be available, so be sure to purchase it before it's gone for good. It also indicates that you won't find a better price, ensuring that this is the lowest cost you'll encounter for that item. This often leads to significant savings, as the store aims to clear out older inventory to make space for new products.

Upgrade to executive membership status

If you frequently shop at Costco, choosing the executive membership can actually help you save money while offering additional benefits. Priced at $130 per year, the executive membership is more expensive upfront compared to the gold membership, which costs only $65 annually. However, it provides 2% cash back on your purchases, up to a maximum of $1,250. For regular Costco shoppers, this cash back can equal or even exceed the membership fee. I upgraded my membership when my children were young, and the rewards covered the annual renewal fee as well as a few boxes of diapers. Each year, rewards are issued as a Costco credit to the primary account holder, conveniently timed with the membership renewal.

Additionally, the executive membership offers extra savings on services such as travel and insurance. Members at this level receive a printed copy of the Costco Connections magazine, which features new products and upcoming special offers. Overall, the advantages can quickly surpass the extra cost of the higher membership tier.

Use your app

To stay updated on the latest special offers, consider downloading the Costco app. It will alert you to new products and pricing, as well as sales and promotions you might miss otherwise. The app provides information on in-store product availability and manufacturer discounts exclusive to Costco. You can also place orders for delivery or pickup directly through the app.

While the app does not offer coupons, you will receive the same savings at Costco whether or not you use it in advance. However, it is an excellent resource for discovering upcoming deals and allows you to customize your shopping list to maximize savings. The app features helpful labels that guide you to the best prices on your purchases at Costco, whether they are online-only deals or available at your local warehouse. Additionally, some items can only be accessed through the Costco Next program, which provides discounted prices for Costco members at select third-party retailers. These items are not available in-store, but you can find them by navigating the app and entering your membership number.

Buy Kirkland Signature

Dedicated Costco shoppers are well aware of the savings they can achieve by choosing the store brand, Kirkland Signature, during their shopping trips. This brand often offers exceptional prices and frequently surpasses other name brands in terms of quality. Costco collaborates with reputable brands to produce its store line products. For instance, Kirkland Signature Greek yogurt is likely produced by the German company Ehrmann, while its hard seltzers are crafted by the same beverage manufacturer that partners with other retailers like Target and Whole Foods. Shoppers can find a wide range of products, from frozen foods and baked goods to batteries, and even wear Kirkland Signature apparel to showcase their brand loyalty.

Kirkland Signature also boasts a vast array of organic products, making it a great choice for those seeking high quality at an affordable price. Popular items, such as frozen strawberries, are available only in organic form and are often cheaper than their conventionally grown alternatives at other grocery stores. Since these products are sold in bulk, it's a good idea to sample them first, which Costco is happy to offer.

Add rotisserie chicken to your list

One of the top strategies for maximizing your budget at Costco is to head directly to the meat section. The well-known rotisserie chickens are priced at just $4.99, making them one of the best bargains in the store (and perhaps anywhere). Weighing nearly 3 pounds, they are perfectly cooked and can be enjoyed as they are or shredded for use in salads, soups, or casseroles. You can even freeze any leftovers for future meals. These chickens are prepared fresh every two hours, ensuring that you always receive a delicious product.

Costco keeps the price low to attract shoppers, and they prominently display the chickens at the back of the warehouse, encouraging customers to pass by numerous other items on their way to snagging this great deal. This strategy often leads to impulse purchases, a tactic that Costco uses to boost sales, even though they sell the rotisserie chickens at a loss.

Fill up your tank

One of the most effective ways to save money at Costco is by taking advantage of their gas stations, which are often located near their warehouses. These stations typically offer significantly lower prices, but you'll need a membership to fill up. Both regular and premium gasoline usually cost between 20 and 30 cents less per gallon compared to other gas stations. Keep in mind that prices can vary based on your location, so it's wise to monitor local gas prices to determine if a Costco membership is worthwhile just for fuel. In some instances, you could save as much as $1 per gallon, although this can fluctuate quite a bit.

Be aware that the lines at the pump can be lengthy, making it less ideal to stop for Costco gas if you're low on fuel and in a rush. However, if you're already visiting Costco and can afford to wait, it's a perfect chance to enjoy a hot dog from the food court while you score a great deal on gas. Shopping during off-peak hours can also help you avoid longer lines.

Pay attention to price endings

Costco doesn't use traditional advertising methods like large banners to promote sales, so it's essential to understand their unique pricing system to find the best bargains in the store. Most items are priced at $0.99, indicating they are standard products. Occasionally, you might notice a highlighted savings line that indicates a rebate or a limited-time offer. However, if you come across a price ending in $0.97, it signifies that the item is in Costco's version of clearance, which could mean it's either overstocked or discontinued. Even deeper discounts are indicated by a price ending in $0.00, which is determined by the individual store manager. These represent the best prices available but are exclusive to that particular Costco location.

If you can hold off, you may find the best prices on certain items once they are marked down. However, be cautious not to overlook deals with discount pricing unless you're prepared to risk missing out on the item entirely. Once Costco decides to stop carrying certain products, they don't always restock them.

Ask for price adjustments

This tip involves making a trip back to your local store, but it can help you save money on items you've already bought. If you purchase something and notice it is available for a lower price at Costco within 30 days, simply bring it to customer service and request a price adjustment. Be sure to have your receipt, as they will issue a refund to match the new, lower price, provided the item is identical. However, this policy may not apply to manager promotions or other rebates offered by the manufacturer instead of the warehouse.

While Costco does not price match other retailers, this situation is rare. Many products at Costco are exclusive to their store brand or come in larger quantities than those found elsewhere, making it unlikely that you'll find the exact same item at a different store.

Get deals on alcohol

Costco is renowned for its impressive selection of wines and spirits, featuring both hard-to-find varieties and local craft brews. You can even discover rare and premium liquors at fantastic prices. For instance, a bottle of Blanton's single-barrel whiskey usually sells for about $150, but it has been spotted on Costco shelves for as little as $50 to $60. This is a rare opportunity, so grab a bottle if you happen to find one.

One strategy to consider is opting for the Kirkland Signature brand, which offers budget-friendly choices without compromising on quality. In taste tests, many Kirkland products have been rated as well or even better than their name-brand counterparts. Kirkland Signature vodka, in particular, consistently receives high praise from customers and is significantly cheaper than more expensive brands.

It's important to note that not all Costco locations sell alcohol, and regulations regarding promotions, sales, and taxes can differ by state. Additionally, return policies for alcohol vary by state, so be sure to consult customer service for more information before making a purchase.

Share your membership with a friend

Costco enforces strict membership rules, particularly regarding account sharing among individuals living in the same household. You can obtain a household card for others residing at the same address, provided they can show proof of residence. This enables you to share the membership costs and enjoy the benefits with a roommate or family members. However, each individual on the account must have their own card to make purchases at Costco.

If you anticipate that you won't use a bulk-sized item and don't have any roommates or family members at home, consider teaming up with a friend to share the cost. While you cannot share membership with someone outside your household, you can coordinate your purchases together. The primary cardholder must be present at checkout, but once the transaction is complete, you can divide the items to maximize the advantages of buying in bulk. Although reselling Costco items for profit is prohibited, you can still share the expenses with another person.

Make a list

While Costco offers fantastic deals, purchasing in bulk can often lead to a significant bill at checkout. When you factor in the additional items that may inadvertently end up in your cart, expenses can quickly escalate. Creating a shopping list is an effective strategy to maintain your focus on necessary items and reduce impulse buys. Additionally, consider the store's layout and organize your list accordingly to minimize the time spent wandering the aisles in search of products.

Costco's design encourages customers to navigate from the front to the back and back again, which the store relies on to boost the chances of you picking up extra items as you browse. If you come across something that seems too tempting to resist, take another lap around the store before deciding to add it to your cart. If it truly is a great find, you'll still feel just as enthusiastic about it later.

Take back items that don't work for you

Costco provides a 100% satisfaction guarantee, allowing you to return most items that don’t meet your needs. The retailer is dedicated to ensuring a positive customer experience, even if it involves accepting returns on food that didn’t meet your taste expectations or household items that turned out to be unnecessary. If you discover that Costco isn’t the ideal shopping destination for you, you can also request a refund on your membership fees.

While there are a few exceptions, generally, you can receive a full refund. Electronics and appliances have a 90-day return period, and certain items, like tires, come with specific warranty timelines. Custom orders, as well as tickets for events and travel experiences, are non-refundable. Additionally, due to state regulations, some items like alcohol and cigarettes may not be returned. For detailed information on return policies, the best resource is the Costco customer service desk, where associates can provide guidance on specific items and offer free tech support to help resolve issues, potentially avoiding the need for a return altogether.

Plan a vacation

Before you embark on your global adventures, be sure to explore the travel and accommodation prices at Costco. The retailer provides fantastic deals on travel packages, hotel bookings, and unique experiences. Booking through Costco Travel can offer benefits such as waived fees, dining credits, and complimentary parking for the same room or trip available through the resort or cruise line. Many packages also come with added bonuses, like credits to use at a resort or on a cruise ship. You may also qualify for a digital Costco shop card or gain access to exclusive clubs and spas during your stay. Like many of Costco's experience-oriented services, the company fosters partnerships that deliver an exceptional travel experience for its members.

The best bargains are often found in vacation packages that encompass airfare, lodging, and additional services. While you can reserve individual travel components, such as flights, rental cars, hotel stays, and cruises, an all-inclusive package can lead to even greater savings.

Purchase gift cards

Before you head out to the movies or your favorite dining spot, check Costco to see if they offer gift cards for your desired destination. You can often save between $10 and $20 by purchasing a pack of gift cards at Costco, which you can then use for your outing. Like many other items at the warehouse, gift cards are sold in bulk, and you can't choose the amount for each card. Instead, you'll receive a set of five or six gift cards, all loaded with the same value — which is typically higher than the total cost of the pack, allowing you to enjoy some savings.

Once you buy them, the gift cards are activated immediately. For example, if you're planning to visit Top Golf that evening, a quick stop at Costco can help you save on your game. Other popular gift card options include restaurant chains, movie theaters, gaming credits, and even tickets for sports events and concerts.

Switch your car or home insurance

Costco members can take advantage of excellent insurance deals offered through the store's partner, Connect. You can easily obtain a quote either online or in-store to determine if their coverage and rates are more favorable than your current provider. The insurance options are competitive with those of other companies and include extra discounts for students, safe driving, and bundling multiple policies. Executive members enjoy additional perks, such as complimentary roadside assistance and home lockout services.

The insurance is underwritten by American Family, which means you'll be working with a third party for the application process and when filing claims. To learn more about the available insurance options, you can visit one of the kiosks near the exit in the store or complete an application online. Keep in mind that since the process involves another vendor, you may not be able to secure insurance coverage on the same day. Be prepared to spend some time submitting paperwork and completing the entire process.

Cut your own meat

Costco's meat counter offers fantastic deals, and you can save even more by cutting your own steaks from larger cuts. A roast is an excellent choice that can be divided into smaller portions. While you may pay more initially for the larger cut, you'll have enough meat for several meals. Since the meat department doesn't provide custom cuts or thickness, this method allows you to get exactly what you want for grilling or pan-searing.

Additionally, Costco is renowned for its generous meat portions and thick steaks, so there's no need to worry about slicing your standard steak into thinner pieces for multiple meals. Thinner cuts are often better for certain cooking techniques, as they allow the steak to achieve a nice char without the risk of burning while the inside cooks. This approach not only saves you money but can also result in a more flavorful and tender steak.