12 Genius Ways to Pay Far Less Every Time You Shop at Costco
Costco lures you in with $1.50 hot dogs, but somehow your cart ends up costing $300. It’s not just you. The layout, the samples, and the pallets of chips are all part of the plan. But a few smart habits can help you shop without spending way more than you meant to.
Let’s discuss these small, strategic changes to how you shop at Costco.
Stick with Kirkland Signature Items
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Costco’s private label, Kirkland Signature, consistently beats name-brand goods on quality and price. Some items are even manufactured by major brands like Starbucks or Duracell. Swapping in Kirkland for staples like snacks or coffee can lead to noticeable long-term savings without sacrificing quality.
Split Bulk Items With Someone Else
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Ten cans of black beans might sound like a smart deal, until you’re on bean chili number six. Splitting bulk items with a friend keeps the unit price low without overloading your pantry. It’s also a great excuse to schedule a post-Costco coffee and divvy session.
Freeze Food to Make It Last
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That rotisserie chicken was a steal, but three days later, it’s looking questionable. Freezing leftovers, such as bread, fruit, and even desserts, buys you time and saves money. Most Costco portions are way more than a household needs in a week, so don’t wait for things to go fuzzy.
Know Costco’s Price Tag Secrets
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Costco’s price tags hold hidden clues. Items ending in .97 are clearance, while .00 or .88 usually means a manager markdown. And that asterisk in the corner means it’s going away for good. Knowing these tricks can help you spot actual deals, not just big boxes.
Shop After Holidays for Markdowns
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Costco doesn’t hang onto seasonal stuff for long. Candy, bakeware, and even holiday-themed toys drop in price fast once the event is over. The morning after Halloween, Valentine’s, or Thanksgiving is prime time for snagging leftovers without paying full-season prices.
Use the Costco App to Plan Smarter
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You don’t need to wander the aisles hoping to stumble on deals. The Costco app shows you the latest discounts, “while supplies last” items, and even keeps a digital shopping list. A little pre-planning means fewer surprises and fewer additions you weren’t actually looking for.
Avoid the Front Aisles and Stick to Your List
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That shiny display of patio furniture or seasonal décor near the entrance is strategically placed to tempt you. Skip those first aisles and stick to only what’s on your shopping list; this way, you can steer clear of impulse purchases that inflate your final bill.
Check the Coupon Book Before Shopping
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Costco’s rotating member discounts change monthly. Even without clipping physical coupons, the price drops apply automatically at checkout. A quick browse before your trip could alert you to savings on items you were already planning to buy, or remind you to stock up.
Take Advantage of Price Adjustments
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Have you bought detergent last week only to see it $4 cheaper now? You can ask for the difference back within 30 days. You don’t need to bring the receipt; it’s just your membership. It’s one of the easiest ways to reclaim missed savings without any fuss.
Stick With In-Store Shopping When Possible
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Costco’s online store is useful but comes with markups. Plus, some of the best perishable items never show up online at all. When it comes to cost and selection, the warehouse still wins. Save the website for furniture or electronics that aren’t in-store.
Use Manufacturer Rebates Strategically
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Every so often, big brands like P&G run promos that give you Costco Shop Cards for buying certain items. If you’re already buying that shampoo or detergent, it’s a low-effort way to earn credit toward your next trip. Just keep your receipts and follow the rebate instructions.
Eat at the Food Court Instead of Eating Out
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If you’re hungry after shopping, the food court is a smart detour. You’ll find satisfying, low-cost meals, from $1.50 hot dog combos to $9.95 pizzas. It’s far cheaper than picking up restaurant takeout, and the portions are large enough to share or save.
Upgrade to Executive Membership if You Shop Often
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If you spend around $270 or more monthly at Costco, the executive membership’s 2% annual reward covers its higher cost. Anything you spend beyond that earns extra cashback, and it also unlocks discounts on travel and services.
Use the Costco Credit Card for Cash Rewards
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The Costco Anywhere Visa by Citi gives you 2% cashback on Costco purchases, 4% on gas, and 3% on restaurants and travel. There’s no added fee beyond your membership, and your savings grow with every trip, even if you only use it at the warehouse.
Avoid the Free Samples
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Yes, it’s just one bite. But that bite often turns into a $13 tub of something you didn’t know existed five minutes ago. If you’re trying to stay focused and on budget, walk past the samples without making eye contact. Your total will thank you.
Don’t Assume It’s Always Cheaper
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Some items seem like a deal until you do the math. Always check the unit price and think about how much you’ll realistically use. Sometimes, a smaller size at your local store ends up being the smarter buy, especially if food ends up getting tossed.
Shop Solo if You Tend to Overspend
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Shopping with family or friends can lead to spontaneous add-to-carts. If you’re prone to picking up “fun extras,” consider shopping alone. Without extra opinions or distractions, it’s easier to stay focused, stick to the list, and avoid budget derailments.
Start Your Shopping at the Back
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The front of the store is designed to attract impulse buyers. The real bargains are often available at the back or on endcaps. Starting there helps you prioritize value over flash and spot hidden discounts before your cart gets crowded with non-essentials.
Portion Out Bulk Meat as Soon as You Get Home
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That family pack of chicken is no bargain if it sits in your fridge until it spoils. Divide it into meal-ready portions and freeze right away. Label and date them, and you’ll always have meat ready without waste or panic defrosting at 6 p.m.
Skip Costco if You’re Not Prepared to Shop Smart
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No list, no plan, no sense of what’s already in your pantry? Then it might be best to wait. Costco can become an expensive stop if you’re browsing without intention. A little prep work beforehand can make the difference between smart savings and a surprise bill.