As one of the world’s largest membership warehouse clubs, Costco has been offering shoppers a chance to buy in bulk and save money for over 35 years. However, with so much to see and buy, navigating this giant retailer can be overwhelming. In this ultimate guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Costco, from membership options to top deals, so you can shop like a pro and get the most out of your next visit.
The Ultimate Guide To Shopping At Costco
For bargain hunters or bulk buyers, Costco is the perfect destination for shopping. It is one of the largest membership-only warehouse clubs in the world that offers a wide range of products at affordable prices. However, if you are new to shopping at Costco, navigating the store can be a little overwhelming. To help you shop like a pro, here’s the ultimate guide to shopping at Costco.
Get a Membership
The first step to accessing the incredible deals at Costco is to become a member. There are two membership options: Gold Star and Executive. The Gold Star membership costs $60 and includes one membership card for the primary member. The Executive membership costs $120 and includes one membership card for the primary member and one for a household member. Executive membership also comes with an annual 2% reward on qualified purchases, up to a maximum of $1,000.
Know the Store Layout
Costco stores can be big, and getting lost in their maze-like aisles can be frustrating. Knowing the layout of the store can help you navigate it like a pro. Items are typically arranged in categories such as electronics, clothing, household products, and groceries. The fresh produce and bakery items are usually found in the back of the store, while the pharmacy is typically located near the front.
Shop with a List
One of the biggest mistakes shoppers make is shopping without a list. Make a list of the items you need and stick to it. This will prevent you from buying unnecessary items that you may end up not using. Additionally, a shopping list will make your shopping experience faster and more efficient.
Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk is possibly the best advantage of shopping at Costco. The store offers bulk quantities of most items, which can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. However, be cautious not to overbuy, especially if you’re purchasing perishable items. Remember, buying in bulk only saves you money if you use the items you purchase.
Compare Prices
Costco is not always the cheapest option available. It’s important to compare prices to ensure that you are getting a good deal. Keep in mind that the price per item may be cheaper at Costco, but you have to buy the product in bulk. Other stores may have similar items available in smaller quantities and may be cheaper overall.
Look for Coupons and Discounts
Costco often has discounts and coupons available in their monthly coupon book. You can pick up a copy of the coupon book at the store or view it online. Keep an eye out for discounts on items you regularly buy or may want to try.
Consider the Kirkland Brand
Kirkland is Costco’s private label, and their products are usually of high quality and are cheaper than similar products available from other brands. This is because the products are made by other popular brands but are packaged under the Kirkland label. Kirkland products are so good that some consumers even prefer them over the brand name products.
Beware of Impulse Buys
Costco is notorious for its impulse buys. These are the items that are not on your shopping list, but you end up purchasing because they seem like a great deal. While some of these items may be good purchases, many may not be necessary. Stick to your shopping list, and only buy items that you actually need.
Final Thoughts
Shopping at Costco can save you money, as long as you know how to navigate the store and what to buy. Become a member, develop a shopping list, compare prices, and consider the Kirkland brand. With these tips, you can get everything you need and more without breaking the bank. Happy shopping!
