Welcome to Marmalade Cafe’s guide to saving big at Costco! If you’re a fan of saving money at big box retail stores, you’re in for a treat. We have compiled a list of insider secrets that even many employees don’t know about. So grab a cup of coffee and get ready to discover some amazing ways to save at Costco!
Understanding Costco’s Pricing Structure
Saving Secret #1: Pay close attention to the numbers at Costco. Not all deals are created equal. When shopping online or in-store, look for deals that end in 99. These items are regularly priced and may not offer significant savings. To spot a clearance item, look for prices that end in 97. And if you see a price ending in 88, it means the store is looking to liquidate that product, offering you huge savings.
Beware of Samples
Saving Secret #2: We all love those delectable samples at Costco, but be aware that they often correspond with high-priced products. The samples are meant to entice you to buy something at its full price. So, enjoy the samples, but don’t let them sway your purchasing decisions.
Non-Members Can Still Benefit
Saving Secret #3: You don’t need a Costco membership to take advantage of their pharmacy. Whether you want to enjoy prescriptions by mail or access the discounts available at Costco pharmacy, you can shop there without a membership.
Saving Secret #4: If you’re unsure whether a Costco membership is right for you, consider getting a Costco Shop Card. These cards can be purchased by members but can be used by anyone. So, if you have a friend or family member who can buy one for you, it’s a great way to shop at Costco without a membership.
Watch for Warehouse Days
Saving Secret #5: Costco has special warehouse days that offer even greater discounts on top of their regular sale prices. Make sure to stay updated on the Costco calendar to take advantage of these extra savings.
The Value of Coupons
Saving Secret #6: Costco coupons are valuable, but keep in mind that they don’t accept manufacturer coupons. To get the most out of Costco coupons, make sure your address is up-to-date so you receive them in the mail. Additionally, you can ask customer service if there are any available coupons for specific products before making a purchase.
Navigate the Store Layout
Saving Secret #7: The flashy displays at the front, sides, and end caps might catch your eye, but the best deals are often found right in the middle of the store. That’s where the least expensive Costco products are located, and you’ll also find the most frequently stocked items there.
Unlock Clearance Deals
Saving Secret #8: Keep an eye out for prices ending in 97 or with an asterisk symbol. Prices ending in 97 indicate clearance items, while the asterisk symbol means the product will not be restocked. These are excellent opportunities to grab products at a significant discount.
Kirkland – Costco’s In-House Brand
Saving Secret #9: When it comes to Costco’s in-house brand, Kirkland, don’t get too fixated on sales and clearances. Costco controls the prices and can manipulate them as needed. However, Kirkland products are generally of high quality and offer great savings, so don’t hesitate to try them out.
Stock Up on Seasonal Candy
Saving Secret #10: For sweet tooth enthusiasts, the best time to shop for candy at Costco is two months before Halloween and two months before Christmas. During these periods, the bulk pricing on candy is unbelievably low, providing significant savings.
Bonus Tip: Consider the Costco Anywhere Visa as a way to save even more. With this credit card, you can earn cashback on gas, restaurants, and all purchases made at Costco and Costco.com.
So there you have it, 10 insider saving secrets for Costco. We hope these tips help you make the most of your shopping experience and save big. Remember, for more great deals and savings, visit Marmalade Cafe. Happy shopping!