How to Save Money at Costco: 15 Things You Must Buy in 2025

Costco has long been a haven for savvy shoppers looking to stretch their dollars further. With its bulk-sized products, competitive pricing, and high-quality offerings, the warehouse retailer has earned its reputation as a budget-conscious shopper’s paradise. But to truly maximize your savings, you need more than just a membership card—you need a strategy. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore how to save money at Costco, what to buy to get the most value, and 15 must-buy items that will help you save big in 2025. Whether you’re wondering, do you save money at Costco? or looking for tips on how to save money with Costco, this article has you covered.

Why Shop at Costco?

Before diving into the specifics of how to save at Costco, it’s important to understand why Costco is such a popular destination for savings. Costco operates on a membership model, which requires an upfront fee. While this might seem like an added expense, the benefits far outweigh the cost. From bulk groceries to electronics, Costco offers unbeatable prices that make it a no-brainer for families, small businesses, and even individuals.

One of Costco’s standout features is its generous return policy, which allows shoppers to return most items with no questions asked. This gives you peace of mind, knowing that your purchases are protected. Additionally, Costco’s in-house brand, Kirkland Signature, is renowned for its quality and affordability, often rivaling or surpassing name-brand products.

However, it’s easy to overspend at Costco if you don’t shop strategically. The sheer size of the store and the allure of bulk deals can lead to impulse purchases. That’s why having a game plan is essential. Let’s dive into actionable tips and must-buy items that will help you save money and make every trip to Costco worth it.

How to Save Money at Costco

Shop the Monthly Coupons
Costco releases a monthly coupon booklet filled with discounts on popular items. These deals are a great way to save money on products you already need. Before heading to the store, check the current offers and plan your trip around the discounted items.
Buy Kirkland Signature Products
Kirkland Signature is Costco’s private label brand, and it’s one of the best ways to save money. From olive oil to diapers, Kirkland products are often priced lower than name brands while maintaining high quality. For example, Kirkland Signature Extra Virgin Olive Oil is consistently ranked among the best in the world.
Use Costco’s Gas Stations
If you’re a driver, filling up at Costco’s gas stations is a no-brainer. Their fuel prices are consistently lower than those of their competitors, making the membership fee worth it for gas savings alone. Over time, the savings on gas can add up significantly.
Shop During Off-Peak Hours
Weekends at Costco can be chaotic, leading to impulse buys and overspending. Shopping during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings or evenings, not only saves you time but also helps you stick to your list.
Split Bulk Purchases
While buying in bulk is a great way to save money, not every household can consume large quantities before they expire. Consider splitting bulk purchases like snacks or perishables with a friend or family member. This way, you save money and reduce waste.
Upgrade to an Executive Membership
If you’re a frequent shopper, upgrading to an Executive Membership can be a smart move. While it costs more upfront, it offers 2% cashback on eligible purchases. For many shoppers, the cashback easily covers the cost of the upgrade.
Shop Online for Exclusive Deals
Some of Costco’s best deals are available exclusively online. Before heading to the store, check Costco’s website for online-only discounts and promotions.
Know the Price Codes
Costco uses specific price codes to indicate discounts. For example, items ending in .97 are clearance items, offering additional savings. Keep an eye out for these codes to snag even better deals.
Watch for Seasonal Clearance
After major holidays, Costco marks down seasonal items to clear inventory. This is a great time to stock up on holiday decorations, wrapping paper, and gifts at discounted prices.

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What to Buy at Costco to Save Money

Not everything at Costco is a bargain, so it’s essential to know what’s worth buying. Here are some of the top categories where Costco excels:

1. Groceries

Costco offers unbeatable prices on pantry staples like rice, pasta, and canned goods. Fresh produce and organic items are also excellent deals if you can consume them before they spoil.

2. Meat and Seafood

Costco’s meat and seafood are high quality and often priced lower than grocery stores. Consider vacuum-sealing portions to freeze for later use.

3. Kirkland Signature Olive Oil

Ranked among the best in the world, Kirkland Signature Extra Virgin Olive Oil is not only affordable but also a staple in any kitchen.

4. Snacks and Beverages

Whether you’re hosting a party or just stocking up, Costco’s snack and beverage deals are hard to beat. Think chips, nuts, and soft drinks.

5. Laundry and Cleaning Supplies

Buying detergents, paper towels, and cleaning products in bulk at Costco often costs much less per unit compared to regular stores.

6. Gasoline

As mentioned earlier, Costco gas stations are a must for anyone looking to save money.

15 Things to Buy at Costco

Now that we’ve covered the basics of saving money, let’s get specific. Here are 15 things to buy at Costco that will save you both time and money:

Rotisserie Chicken
Priced at just $4.99, Costco’s rotisserie chicken is a fan favorite. It’s perfect for quick meals and far cheaper than cooking your own.
Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is one of the best bulk buys at Costco. Their Kirkland Signature brand offers quality and value.
Coffee
Costco’s selection of coffee beans and K-cups often costs less than competitors, making it a great choice for caffeine lovers.
Cheese
Costco’s cheese selection is vast and cost-effective, especially for gourmet or imported varieties.
Diapers and Baby Wipes
Parents swear by the savings on Kirkland Signature diapers and baby wipes, which rival major brands in quality.
Alcohol
Costco’s liquor section is known for low prices, especially on wines and Kirkland Signature spirits.
Baking Supplies
From flour to sugar, Costco’s baking supplies are affordable and perfect for frequent bakers.
Frozen Fruits and Vegetables
These are great for smoothies, cooking, or as a backup when fresh produce runs out.
Electronics
Costco offers deals on TVs, laptops, and other electronics, often bundled with warranties or accessories.
Gift Cards
Costco sells discounted gift cards for restaurants, entertainment, and more, giving you instant savings.
Organic Products
Costco’s organic offerings, including produce and snacks, are affordable compared to speciality grocery stores.
Pet Supplies
From pet food to toys, Costco’s prices for pet products are hard to beat.
Health and Wellness Items
Vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medications are significantly cheaper at Costco.
Holiday Items
Costco is a great place to buy holiday decorations, wrapping paper, and gifts at discounted prices.
Mattresses
If you’re in the market for a mattress, Costco often has excellent deals, especially during seasonal sales.

Extra Savings Tips

Shop Online: Some deals are exclusive to Costco’s website, so don’t forget to check there before heading to the store.
Know the Price Codes: Items ending in .97 are clearance prices, offering additional savings.
Watch for Seasonal Clearance: After holidays, Costco marks down seasonal items to clear inventory.

Do You Save Money Shopping at Costco?

The answer is a resounding yes, if you shop strategically. By focusing on essentials, sticking to a list, and taking advantage of Costco’s unique offerings, you can stretch your dollars further than ever. Whether you’re looking for how to save at Costco or wondering do you save money shopping at Costco, this guide provides the tools and insights you need to make the most of your membership.

Remember, saving money at Costco is all about planning and knowing what to buy. With these tips and must-buy items, your next shopping trip will be a masterclass in frugality. Happy saving!

FAQ:

Is a Costco membership worth it?

Yes, a Costco membership is worth it if you shop there regularly or use their services like gas stations, optical care, or travel discounts. The savings on bulk items, groceries, and fuel often outweigh the membership cost.

How much does a Costco membership cost?

As of now, a basic Gold Star Membership costs $60 per year, while the Executive Membership costs $120 per year and includes 2% cashback on most purchases.

What is the best time to shop at Costco?

The best time to shop at Costco is during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings or evenings. Avoid weekends and late afternoons when the store tends to be crowded.

How do I save money at Costco gas stations?

To save money, simply fill up your tank at a Costco gas station. Their fuel prices are consistently lower than most other gas stations, and you’ll need an active Costco membership to access them.

What are Kirkland Signature products, and why are they cheaper?

Kirkland Signature is Costco’s in-house brand, offering high-quality products at lower prices compared to name brands. These items are often manufactured by well-known companies but sold under Costco’s label.

Can I shop at Costco without a membership?

Non-members can shop at Costco with a gift card (Costco Shop Card) or by accompanying a member. However, access to certain perks, like gas stations and cashback rewards, is reserved for members.

How do Costco’s monthly coupons work?

Costco provides a monthly coupon booklet with discounts on select items. These deals are automatically applied at checkout, so you don’t need to clip or scan coupons.

What should I avoid buying at Costco?

Some items might not be the best deal at Costco, such as:
Bulk perishables (if they go bad before you use them)
Name-brand products that are cheaper elsewhere
Single-use items that aren’t needed in large quantities

Is the Executive Membership worth it?

If you shop at Costco frequently or make large purchases, the Executive Membership can be worth it. You earn 2% cashback on most purchases, which can offset the higher membership cost.

Can I split Costco purchases with others?

Yes, splitting bulk items with friends or family is a great way to save money and reduce waste, especially for perishable goods.

Are gift cards cheaper at Costco?

Yes, Costco sells discounted gift cards for restaurants, entertainment, and other services. For example, you might pay $80 for a $100 gift card.

Can I return items to Costco?

Yes, Costco has a generous return policy, allowing most items to be returned without hassle. Exceptions include electronics (90-day return window) and some perishable items.

Can I shop online at Costco?

Yes, Costco offers an online store, but prices may be slightly higher than in-store due to shipping and handling fees. Some items are also exclusive to Costco’s website.

How do I maximize savings with Costco’s services?

Utilize Costco’s additional services like gas stations, travel discounts, optical care, and discounted gift cards. These perks add tremendous value to your membership.