12 Insider Costco Shopping Secrets That Will Save You Money

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Costco is renowned for its incredible deals, bulk savings, and value-packed offerings. However, behind the scenes, lesser-known strategies and insider tips can further maximize your savings and take your shopping experience to the next level. In this revealing article, we’ll lift the curtain on Costco’s best-kept secrets, sharing exclusive knowledge that Costco may not want you to know. From deciphering pricing patterns and unlocking clearance finds to leveraging membership-free access and optimizing your shopping timing, prepare to gain an edge in your Costco shopping adventures.

National Markdowns: Prices Ending in 97

When browsing the aisles of Costco, keep an eye out for prices ending in ‘.97’. These price endings indicate national markdowns, meaning the item has been discounted across all Costco locations. Whether it’s electronics, clothing, or household goods, spotting these prices can lead to significant savings. So, the next time you see a price tag ending in ‘.97’, you know you’ve stumbled upon a nationwide deal at Costco.

Local Markdowns: Prices Ending in 00

While national markdowns end in ‘.97’, local markdowns at Costco can be identified by prices ending in ‘.00’. These price endings indicate that the item has been specifically marked down at the local store level. These local markdowns might only be available at some Costco locations, as they vary from store to store. So, keep an eye out for prices ending in ‘.00’ to potentially uncover exclusive local deals and maximize your savings during your next Costco shopping trip.

Limited Stock: Items Marked with an Asterisk

Items marked with an asterisk (*) at Costco indicate that they won’t be restocked once they’re sold out. This means that if you come across a product you love with an asterisk on its price tag, it’s a good idea to grab it while you can. These limited stock items could be anything from seasonal products to special offerings, so take advantage of the opportunity to snag these unique finds before they’re gone for good.

Clearance Finds Online: Search While Supplies Last at Costco’s Website

Are you looking for great clearance deals at Costco? You can just head over to Costco’s website and search for the term ‘while supplies last’ to find a treasure trove of online clearance items. This search will lead you to a dedicated section featuring products with limited availability at discounted prices.

Maximize Savings: Stack Costco Coupons with Rebate Apps

Boost your savings at Costco by stacking coupons with popular rebate apps like Ibotta, Checkout 51, and Fetch Rewards. Costco accepts manufacturer’s coupons, and when you combine them with cashback offers from these rebate apps, your savings can multiply. Before your next Costco shopping trip, browse these apps for relevant offers, scan your receipts, and enjoy additional savings on top of Costco’s already competitive prices.

Discounted Movie Tickets: Costco vs Theater Prices

Did you know movie tickets cost less at Costco than purchasing them directly at the theater? Costco offers discounted movie ticket packages, allowing you to enjoy the latest films at a lower price. These packages often include multiple tickets or even concession vouchers, providing extra value for moviegoers. So, before planning your next trip to the theater, check out Costco’s movie ticket deals and save on your cinematic experience.

Costco Shop Cards: Membership-Free Access for Anyone

While Costco requires a membership for shopping, anyone can take advantage of their Costco Shop Cards. These cards can be purchased by members and non-members alike, with denominations ranging from $25 to $2,000. If you don’t want to pay the membership fee yourself, you can have a friend or neighbor who is a member pick up a Shop Card for you. With a Costco Shop Card, you can enjoy the benefits of shopping at Costco without needing your own membership.

Price Protection: Get a Price Adjustment within 14 Days

Did you recently purchase an item at Costco only to find out it went on sale soon after? Don’t fret! Costco offers price protection within 14 days of your original purchase. If the price drops within that timeframe, visit the membership counter or contact customer service to request a price adjustment. This policy allows you to shop confidently, knowing that if prices decrease shortly after your purchase, you can still benefit from the reduced price.

Aisle Exploration: No Labels to Encourage Discovery

You may have noticed a lack of specific aisle labels when you stroll through Costco’s aisles. While it may seem confusing, there’s a strategic reason behind it. Costco deliberately avoids aisle labels to encourage shoppers to explore and discover products they may not have otherwise considered. However, it’s important to note that this tactic can also increase the chances of impulse purchases and spending more than originally planned.

Quality & Value: The Cult Following of Kirkland Signature

Kirkland Signature, Costco’s private label brand, has earned a devoted following for good reason. These products, ranging from groceries to household goods, are known for their high quality and value. Kirkland Signature items often rival or even surpass the quality of popular name brands but at a lower price point. The trusted reputation of Kirkland Signature products makes them a go-to choice for Costco members looking to save money without compromising on quality.

Share the Savings: Split Bulk Packages with Friends

Buying in bulk is a hallmark of Costco shopping, but you may not always need or want large quantities of a particular item. In such cases, consider splitting bulk packages with friends or family members. By dividing the cost and the products among a group, everyone can enjoy the savings without worrying about excessive quantities. This way, you can take advantage of Costco’s great deals while tailoring your purchases to suit your needs.

Smart Shopping Timing: Best Times to Visit Costco

Timing can make a difference when it comes to shopping at Costco. The best time to shop is typically 30 minutes before closing, as the store is less crowded, and you may find additional markdowns on perishable items. The second-best time to visit is between 3-5 p.m. on weekdays when traffic is generally lower. By choosing strategic times to shop, you can navigate the aisles more easily, potentially uncover extra discounts, and have a more efficient shopping experience.

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