While Costco offers some exceptional deals, it’s easy to be lured into overspending by bulk packaging and tempting bargains. If you have kids, it can be tough to leave the store with a total under $200. How often do you reach the register and see a total that’s far higher than you expected?
That used to happen to me—often.
When we first got a Costco membership years ago, I reveled in buying everything we needed (and many things we didn’t) in large quantities. Money seemed to flow out of our account as if through a sieve. I expected bulk shopping to save us money, but instead we began spending much more on groceries and household items.
Costco can absolutely save you money, though. To make that happen, I had to learn to avoid the trap areas and identify the genuine bargains.
From that learning came my 9 Commandments of Costco: nine practical hacks I use to make Costco truly pay off.
9 COSTCO HACKS TO SAVE MONEY
1) DON’T GO WHEN HUNGRY
Grocery shopping hungry is dangerous anywhere, but at Costco it can be catastrophic. Snack displays and samples are everywhere, and because items are sold in bulk, each impulse purchase is more expensive. You may end up buying a giant tub of something you don’t even like—one or two pieces might have been fine, but a jumbo bucket will sit untouched.
2) DON’T BUY ANYTHING YOU HAVEN’T TRIED BEFORE
Purchasing a new product in bulk is a risky move. No matter how great the price looks, you’ll waste money if your family doesn’t eat it. Instead, buy a small amount from a regular grocery store to test it. If everyone likes it, add it to your next Costco list.
3) MAKE A LIST AND STICK TO IT
It’s easy to get distracted by all the exciting items at Costco—especially if there’s a demo going on. But unless you planned to buy a $350 blender, don’t leave with one. Smaller impulse purchases add up quickly. Enter the store with a clear shopping list and resist buying anything else. If an unplanned purchase seems tempting, force yourself to make a second trip.
4) GET THE EXECUTIVE MEMBERSHIP
Although it costs more, the Executive membership can be worth it if you shop at Costco regularly. You earn 2% back on purchases, which often offsets the higher fee. If you don’t earn enough to cover the upgrade, Costco will refund the difference between the Executive and Basic membership at year’s end, so it’s a low-risk upgrade for frequent shoppers.
5) PRICE CHECK
Don’t assume Costco always has the lowest price. Compare unit prices with your local stores to be sure you’re getting the best deal. And even when Costco’s price is lower, buying a rarely used item in bulk may cost you more than purchasing smaller quantities when needed.
6) GET THE CHICKEN ROTISSERIE
The Costco rotisserie chicken—often priced around $4.99—is one of the best steals in the store. It’s typically located toward the back so shoppers pass other tempting items on the way. Beyond the low price, a rotisserie chicken can provide several meals: serve it with veggies one night, then debone the rest for enchiladas, soup, salads, quesadillas, or pasta. Make broth from the carcass for an extra meal. A few delicious meals for about five dollars is hard to beat.
7) BUY IN BULK, DIVIDE, & FREEZE
For things you use frequently, buy in bulk and portion into freezer bags or containers. This works great for shredded cheese, fresh meat, and bread. I buy large bags of mozzarella and split them into quart-size freezer bags, and I do the same with steaks and other cuts. You save time and reduce the number of shopping trips.
8) USE THE RETURN POLICY
Costco’s return policy is very generous. If a product isn’t right for you, don’t hesitate to return it. Even food that looks off or a product that didn’t meet expectations can go back. Costco will also refund the difference if an item you bought later goes on sale—check your receipts and take advantage of that protection.
9) FUEL UP YOUR CAR
Many Costco locations have gas stations where you can save around $0.20 per gallon. Considering annual gasoline use, that discount can add up to a meaningful yearly saving. Even if you wait a few minutes for a pump, fueling multiple vehicles at Costco can lead to substantial savings over time.
USE THESE COSTCO HACKS & SAVE
Costco remains one of my favorite stores. Between free samples, bulk bargains, and the air-conditioned aisles on hot days, it’s a blessing for a busy family. Where else can you feed a family for under $10 at the food court?
Follow these nine hacks to ensure Costco works for your budget instead of draining it. Shop with intention, compare prices, and make the membership earn its keep.