Best Tips, Hacks, & Insider Secrets for Shopping at Costco

A Costco opened up near us recently, and our lives have been forever changed (I don’t think that’s an overstatement). Our local store is one of the best places for good deals and the mouthwatering scent of rotisserie chicken. Whether you’re one of the many seasoned Costco shoppers or a newcomer, join us as we uncover the secrets to mastering the art of Costco shopping in this comprehensive guide.

But before we delve into the world of bulk buys and incredible deals, tune into the Simple Purposeful Living podcast episode 20, where I share more about Costco.

Maximizing Your Costco Membership Card

​Before you even set foot inside the store, let’s talk about the foundation of your Costco experience – your membership. Costco offers two primary types: the Gold Star and the Executive. Both come with their perks, but the Executive Membership, although slightly pricier, offers an annual 2% reward on eligible Costco purchases and additional benefits.

Pro Tip #1: If you’re debating whether to upgrade to the Executive Membership Costco shop card, track your purchases throughout the year. If the 2% reward outweighs the extra cost, you’re in for a win.

But here’s a neat trick: You can share your membership with family members residing in different states. While both of you may be listed on the account, only the primary member receives the 2% reward check. It’s a good deal to share the costs and enjoy the perks.

Pro Tip #2: Invite friends or family members with a Costco membership to join you on a shopping trip. Exploring the store without committing to a membership is an excellent opportunity.

Finding the Best Deals

Costco is renowned for its competitive low prices on bulk items, but not all items are created equal. Keep an eye out for price tags that end in .99 or .97 – these signify a price reduction, and you’re likely in for a great deal. Whenever there’s a deal on something you love, don’t hesitate to stock up.

Pro Tip #3: If you spot an asterisk (*) on the top-right corner of the Costco price tags, the item won’t be restocked. If it’s a favorite, seize the moment to stockpile.

Timing is crucial when it comes to snagging the best deals. Costco stores are less crowded on weekday mornings and early afternoons before school lets out. The best time to stock up on fresh produce and new products is Tuesday through Thursday.

Pro Tip #4: Plan your shopping trips for weekday afternoons to dodge the weekend crowds.

And let’s not forget about Costco’s coupons and monthly flyer, usually found at the store entrance. Keep an eye out for items you regularly buy – a great deal might await you.

Pro Tip #5: Combine manufacturer coupons with Costco’s deals for maximum savings. It’s a savvy strategy to stretch your budget.

Here’s a well-kept secret – Costco’s price adjustment policy. If you purchase an item on sale within 30 days, head to Costco customer service, which will refund you the price difference. It’s an exceptional way to ensure you always get the lowest prices.

Pro Tip #6: Keep your receipts and regularly check Costco’s website for price drops on recent purchases.

Must-Have Finds at Costco

​Now, let’s dive into some of our personal Costco favorites, categorized by sections of the store:

Favorite Finds in the Snack Section:

​Our kids affectionately call this area “snack central.” Here are some of our top picks:

• Made Good Granola Minis (organic & nut-free)
• Clif Kids Z Bar Pack
• Veggie Straws
• Pirate Booty
• Peanut Butter-filled Pretzels
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Mix

Favorite Finds in Fresh Produce:

We’ve had remarkable luck with Costco’s produce section, including:

• Large bags of romaine lettuce
• Packs of colored peppers
• Berries and other fruits
• Vegetable Trays (an easy way to get veggies on the table some weeks)

Favorite Finds in the Bakery Section:

En route to the refrigerated section from fresh produce, you’ll find the bakery section. Highlights include:

• Containers of mini cookies
• Mini cinnamon rolls
• Costco bakery cakes!

Favorite Finds in the Refrigerated Section:

​Costco’s rotisserie chicken is legendary. It’s delicious, affordable, and versatile, making it a staple for multiple meals.

If you’re in a hurry or want a convenient option, consider buying hand-pulled rotisserie chicken in the same section. It may cost more than doing it yourself, but it’s a time-saver.

We also recommend the bulk ground beef – buy in bulk, portion it, and freeze it for convenience. 

Additionally, explore their range of other refrigerated items like:

• Carnitas
• Gyro meat
• Smoked pork
• Organic salsa
• Avocado salsa
• Tzatziki sauce
• Queso

Favorite Finds in Bulk Paper Goods:

If you’ve got the storage space, buying in bulk can be a better deal, especially on toilet paper. This section, located at the back of the store, isn’t our go-to, but my mom stocks up on paper products and disposable utensils for a simple lake dinner clean-up.

Alcohol and More:

Costco also offers great deals on alcohol. Your local store is a great place to stock up on seasonal favorites like our summer favorites — summer shandy and high noon seltzers. We’re fans of the Kirkland brand prosecco and margarita mix for parties.

Favorite Finds in Frozen Foods:

​This is another hot spot for us. We recommend bulk blocks of cheese, organic string cheese, and Kirkland brand bun-length hot dogs. The latter comes in a 3-pack, so toss two in the freezer for future meals.

Don’t forget to grab the Chobani flips – they’re a staple in our kids’ lunch boxes. Just Bare chicken is another must-have; we enjoy the chicken chunks and Just Bare chicken filets on brioche buns.

The Kirkland brand Italian sausage lasagna is a great deal, coming in a 2-pack, perfect for sharing or freezing for later. For pizza lovers, their cheese pizzas are a hit – add pepperoni if desired.

Another fantastic find is Crazy Cuizine’s orange chicken, which makes for a quick and delicious meal. Cook it in the air fryer, toss it in the sauce, and serve with rice.

Favorite Finds on Pantry Staples:

In the corner dedicated to pantry staples, we love:

• Kirkland brand organic peanut butter
• Kirkland brand large bags of chocolate chips
• Avocado oil, 
• Avocado oil baking spray
• Pure maple syrup.
• The Kirkland brand organic tortilla chips
• Big bags of Munchie mix are a great deal if you feed a crowd

Seasonal Items:

​Costco shines when it comes to seasonal offerings. From fresh produce to holiday decorations, they’ve got you covered. We appreciate that they often source from local suppliers, allowing us to support our community.

Holiday Bargains:

​Costco is a treasure trove of deals during the holiday season. From clothing and books to gifts, you’ll find plenty of options. However, staying focused and mindful of your needs is essential to avoid going off-budget.

For instance, we recently scored a squirt gun set for birthday gifts at a fantastic price. It’s a perfect seasonal gift that won’t break the bank.

6 Extra Costco Trip Perks

Costco isn’t just a store; it’s an experience. Here are some additional perks that make a trip to Costco even more exciting:

Extra Perk #1: The Costco Gas Station

​If you’re a Costco member, you can enjoy lower fuel prices at their gas stations, adding to significant savings over time.

Pro Tip #11: Use the Costco app to locate the nearest Costco gas station and check fuel prices. It’s an effortless way to save a few extra dollars.

Extra Perk #2: Food Court

​Costco’s food court is a hidden gem for delicious and budget-friendly meals. From pizza and hot dogs to churros and ice cream, it’s the perfect place to refuel during your shopping spree. Plus, you can feed a family of six for under $10 – now that’s a deal!

Extra Perk #3: Free Samples

​Costco is famous for its free samples, which aren’t just great for snacking and discovering new products. It’s like a mini food festival right in the store.

Extra Perk #4: Costco Pharmacy, Eye, and Hearing Aid Centers

​Costco’s pharmacy often offers lower prices on prescription medications than other pharmacies. Check out their online pharmacy prices before heading elsewhere. Additionally, their eyewear and hearing aid centers provide excellent value.

Extra Perk #5: Costco Online

​Don’t forget that Costco carries many items, including furniture, online. They often feature online-exclusive deals, so watch their website for discounts.

Extra Perk #6: Tires & Travel

​Costco offers great deals on tires, a must-have for car owners. Their travel service can also help you book all-inclusive vacations at competitive prices. Whether you need new tires or want to plan your next adventure, Costco has you covered.
Just Remember…

Costco is more than just a store – it’s an adventure waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a budget-conscious shopper or simply seeking high-quality products, Costco has something for everyone.

Remember, a well-planned shopping list, a suitable membership, and a willingness to explore Costco’s offerings are the keys to a successful trip.

So, gather a friend or your spouse, and make a date to visit Costco. Enjoy the free samples, explore the aisles, and discover new favorites. Happy shopping!

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