Costco is one of the top warehouse clubs. The annual membership fees are affordable and there is no shortage of the popular brands you love that this store carries. You can find not only groceries but electronics, home decor products and even kids’ clothing at cheap prices. Costco also offers optical services, a pharmacy and gas stations in each location.
Here are some tips on how to shop with great deals in Costco:
Take a Look at the Asterisk
If you’re a regular Costco shopper, you might see certain products that have an asterisk on them. This means that these items will soon disappear from shelves and not come back for a few weeks or even months. They also tend to be lower in price than the regular products at the store. You can stock up and save hundreds with this option.
Frozen is Cheaper than Fresh
Of course, you want to purchase fresh produce ideally but at this store it might be better to get it frozen since the prices are less. This also applies to frozen desserts, frozen meats and frozen fish. You can buy these in bulk to always have extra in your pantry. This reduces the need for frequent supermarket visits.
You Will Find Affordable Gas at Costco
One of the best things about Costco is the gas. Those who are members often say that the gas is much cheaper in Costco than at regular gas stations. The drawback is that on some weekends, the stations at Costco get crowded. This requires patience from you.
Non-Members Can Shop Here Too
Don’t think that it is necessary to be a member to cash in on the great prices Costco has to offer. All you have to do is go with a friend who has a membership and can purchase a cash card for you. Depending on how much you load on the card, you can rake up a lot of savings.
Look for Returned Items Section
If you go over to the household goods or automotive section, you might see a section that is dedicated to returned items. These products are sometimes gently or barely used and they are often marked down really low.
Get Healthy on a Budget
Costco offers optical and pharmacy services to members, but did you know that even non-members can take advantage of the store’s occasional free or discounted health screenings? This is especially helpful if you do not have health insurance from your state’s Medicaid program or through your employer.
Skip the Name Brands
We know you love to get discounts on the name brands at this store, but you will save even more money if you buy the store’s generic brands. Kirkland is one such brand you will find here. This brand’s best products include the sliced bacon, the Signature India Pale Ale, the coffee and Greek yogurt.
Costco is more than just a warehouse to buy in bulk for savings. It is also sort of a social shopping experience. You can see shoppers sample a variety of snacks while in the store or when the kids run around and glance at the fun toys they see. With these tips, you will have what it takes to shop here like a pro.