[Julie]

What do I need to know about COSTCO? Best deals (organic/clean food)? Best price for a membership? Any other deals or tips?

I’m considering getting a Costco membership and would love to hear from experienced shoppers. What are the best deals you’ve found, especially when it comes to organic or clean food options?

Are there particular items you always buy there because of quality or price? Also, is there a way to get the best price or discount on a membership?

Beyond groceries, are there any underrated sections or products that people often overlook?

Any tips for saving money or making the most out of a Costco membership would be greatly appreciated.

Whether it’s seasonal sales, return policy hacks, or lesser-known services, I’d love to hear your advice.

Thanks in advance!

[Annette]

They allow non members to wander the store. I recommned you go price the things you buy most and see if there is an advantage for you.

[Gwen]

I like their top-tier gas, and it’s always cheaper than other stations in my area. I buy toilet paper, over the counter meds and vitamins.

They have great deals on electronics and robust warranties.

Since it is just me, I don’t buy a lot of food items because they’re too large in quantity.

I also used their auto program when I purchased my last vehicle. Also, prescription eyewear.

[Gina]

Also, just know that every Costco doesn’t have the same things at the same prices.

Our friends bought an outdoor patio set for $100 less by going to a Costco in a more working class neighborhood.

Also, I live between 2 Costcos & check both prices for gas before I set off.

They can vary quite a bit.

[Kendall]

An item priced at $0.99 is regularly priced with no deal, anything that is priced at $0.97 has been marked down and has good value and an item priced at $0.88 or an even dollar has been majorly reduced, which means the manager is eager to move the product.

The asterisk or star symbol means the product isn’t going to be restocked. If it’s a favorite product, stock up!

Costco’s Kirkland store brand is highest quality sold exclusively at Costco.

Their canned salmon is the best! No skin or bones. It looks like pink canned tuna.

Costco prices on its app are higher than in store prices. Same with Instacart. Cheapest prices are always in store.

Different stores also have different prices depending on the region.

Major coupon savings on big brand consumer products.

Best time to shop with lowest number of people is midday and midweek.

Summer is the best savings for big ticket items, according to some web sites.

Pharmacy prices and Eye glass prices and Gasoline prices are much lower than elsewhere.

Bundle price of gift cards is usually lower than card value. Great deal!

Awesome selection of treats and gifts around the Christmas holidays.
They have great hot dogs and pizza in their food court.

You can also order whole pizza in advance for pick up for parties or whatever

[Gwen]

We buy lots of pantry staples there. Rice, flour, olive oil, condiments, etc. Cereal is not a bargain there, we shop local sales for that. Dairy items like heavy cream and butter are priced well.

We don’t typically buy milk or eggs there. Meat isn’t always the cheapest option but we really like their ground beef as it is made in house and a leaner option at 85/15 compared to local shops.

We do buy chicken there more than beef as I can typically get a better deal on beef with local sales.

Their frozen vegetables and fruit are a good deal and we stock up on those for meals.

Their seasonal items are always enticing and that’s where we generally overspend if we aren’t careful.

[Maria]

I saw a membership deal on Groupon yesterday. That’s how I got mine.

[Mary]

If possible go with someone first to check out what they have. Also do check prices. I have 2 about same distance from me.

I’m not sure if one of them has gas cheaper than other gas stations.

I make sure to only get gas at the other one.

My dog’s meds are way cheaper at costco. Same with my glasses

[Chelsea]

It depends what you buy. For me, it’s the most affordable place for meat, grains, beans, flour and pet supplies.

The savings more than covers the basic membership cost.

I get produce and other items I need at Aldi, Walmart and Kroger.

[Marsh]

They have discounted prices for membership sometimes, I think
Anyway, it’s very overstimulating there, I’m an impulse shopper and Costco is my kryptonite.

I go with a list and do not deviate from it at all for any reason.

I price compare everything on the list with the Walmart and aldi apps because it’s not always the better deal at Costco.

Also check expiration dates lol.

It’s worth it, if you’re a responsible shopper.

[Shara]

I’m grateful to have a Costo close to home. Their price for gas is the best in the area. Great price/warranty on tires, too.

It helps to know your local prices on everything to make sure you’re actually getting a good deal.

[Sue]

There are only 2 types of memberships, $65 for the Gold Star Membership and $130 for the Executive Membership.

The best thing to do is to go with a friend that is a member. And, maybe bring cash so your friend can buy what you want, or just go and get membership.

Look over their website. They have a sale that usually last one month at a time.

The current sale ends May 4th, the sale Flyer is in their website

[Susanna]

Compare prices!! Not everything at Costco is a deal.
That said, it is worth your money if you are not an impulse shopper and if you do your homework.

[Jude]

We have an Executive membership. It comes with a Visa credit card that pays different percentages on different types of purchases. For us it is worth it.

Costco gas is priced at least 50 cents a gallon lower than other stations in our immediate area.

Costco has a lot of organic food especially frozen veggies and fruit.

Pet meds are cheaper there. Some items are much cheaper but are in bulk so you have to ask yourself if you will really use that much.

Very easy to impulse buy. Lots of snacks and prepared foods, it can really add up.

Fresh veggies are sold in large quantities and it is hard to use up if you are a small family.

Definitely visit one before buying in. There are many items that they do not carry.

There’s no way I could just shop at Costco and get everything we need.

[Candice]

Try to be disciplined as it’s very easy to impulse buy. However, it’s GREAT for things you’ll definitely use. Chips and snacks are often much better deal than grocery store.

Same with fridge and frozen foods. Not always, but often the case.

Sometimes, you can get amazing deals on clothes, shoes, baby clothes, jackets.

Toiletries and OTC meds + vitamins are often MUCH better deal than cvs or grocery store.

Ex- I got a 1-2 yr supply of heartburn medicine for less money than a 30 day supply at cvs.

It’s a no brainer for our family, but again, discipline is key!

[Author]

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