master-cooks | The Best Time To Shop At Costco If You're Hungry For Free Samples

Shopping at Costco can be an exciting experience, especially if you're on the hunt for free samples. The best time to visit Costco for these culinary treats is typically during peak shopping hours when the store is bustling with activity. Weekend afternoons, particularly Saturdays and Sundays from around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., are prime times when Costco is filled with shoppers and sample stations are fully stocked. During these hours, vendors are eager to promote their products, offering a variety of samples ranging from snacks and desserts to prepared meals. Weekdays can also offer sampling opportunities, especially around lunchtime, but weekends generally provide a wider selection and more frequent offerings. It's important to note that sampling schedules can vary by location and season, as some stores may have more active sampling events during holiday seasons or special promotions. In any case, visiting during these peak periods not only satisfies your curiosity but also gives you a chance to explore new products without committing to a purchase. Remember, though, that while sampling is a fun and tasty experience, it's always courteous to be considerate of other shoppers and vendors.

Shop on Saturdays for the smoothest sampling

Although both Saturday and Sunday are the peak days at Costco, Saturday tends to be slightly less crowded, though not significantly so. If you're seeking a wider variety of samples, consider visiting Costco just before a food-related event, such as a major sports game or a holiday like Thanksgiving. While the store will still be busy, the crowds may be more dispersed. For those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle, a Costco Redditor suggests that "If you want an abundance of samples with no lines, go on a Monday or Tuesday," but keep in mind that your choices might be more limited.

Once you've snagged a sample you enjoy, feel free to go back for more. There’s technically no cap on the number of free samples you can take, but if you find something you really like, it’s courteous to listen to the employee’s presentation about it. Conversely, if you’re not a fan of your sample, there’s an appropriate way to respond. Ultimately, Costco’s free samples serve as a clever strategy to encourage customers to make additional purchases, so don’t hesitate to maximize your membership by planning your visits for optimal sampling opportunities. If you can manage the crowds, weekends are the best time for free samples. Additionally, keep in mind that Costco is implementing significant changes in 2024, which may affect the best times for sampling.

The Best Time To Shop At Costco If You're Hungry For Free Samples

Shop on Saturdays for the smoothest sampling

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