Costco Shopping Secrets: How to Maximize Your Savings and Find Hidden Deals

Costco is a treasure trove of savings, but navigating its aisles like a pro can take a little insider knowledge. Whether you’re a seasoned Costco shopper or just thinking about joining, this guide will reveal how you can save more, uncover hidden discounts, and make the most out of your shopping trips.

How to Save Money at Costco: Insider Tips

Saving money at Costco isn’t just about finding the best prices—it’s also about smart shopping strategies. Here are some insider tips to stretch your dollars:

1. Buy in Bulk: Costco’s bulk sizes often offer better per-unit prices than other stores. Purchase items you use frequently in large quantities to save over time.
2. Check for Coupons: Look for Costco’s coupon booklet, available in-store or online. Combining these with in-store deals can lead to significant savings.
3. Use the Costco App: The Costco app often features exclusive deals and digital coupons that you won’t find in the store.
4. Stock Up on Staples: Items like toilet paper, paper towels, and non-perishable foods are usually cheaper when bought in bulk.

Example: If you use coffee daily, buying a large bag at Costco can be much cheaper than buying smaller packages elsewhere.

Understanding Costco Pricing Codes and What They Mean

Costco pricing codes can help you identify deals and discounts. Here’s how to decode them:

1. Price Ending in .97: This usually means the item is on clearance. It’s your chance to get a great deal before the item is discontinued.
2. Price Ending in .99: This indicates a regular price, but it may still be competitive.
3. Price Ending in .49 or .79: These are often promotional prices, so keep an eye out for these numbers for potential discounts.
4. Price Ending in .00: This usually means the item is a special purchase, often bought directly from the manufacturer, which can indicate a good deal.

Example: A price tag ending in .97 might be a clearance item that’s on its way out, so if you see something you like, grab it before it’s gone!

How to Identify Clearance Items at Costco

Finding clearance items at Costco can be a goldmine for deals. Here’s how to spot them:

1. Look for the Yellow Tags: Clearance items often have yellow price tags. These items are usually marked down to clear out inventory.
2. Check the End Caps: Clearance items are often placed on end caps or special displays. These are prime spots for discounted goods.
3. Visit the Store Regularly: Clearance items can change frequently, so visiting the store often increases your chances of finding new deals.

Example: If you’re shopping for holiday decorations, check the end caps for clearance items after the season ends.

The Best Time to Shop at Costco for Maximum Savings

Timing your Costco visits can help you snag the best deals. Here’s when to shop:

1. Mid-Month: Costco often restocks and marks down items mid-month. Visiting during this time can lead to better deals.
2. Seasonal Sales: Take advantage of seasonal sales, like post-holiday clearance or back-to-school promotions, for extra savings.
3. Weekdays: Shopping during weekdays, especially in the morning, can help you avoid crowds and have a more relaxed shopping experience.

Example: Shopping for holiday gifts in January can help you find deeply discounted items as stores clear out seasonal inventory.

How to Use Costco Price Tags to Find Hidden Discounts

Costco’s price tags often have hidden clues about discounts. Here’s how to use them:

1. Look for Asterisks (): An asterisk () on the price tag indicates that the item is being discontinued. It may be marked down to clear out stock.
2. Check for Clearance Labels: Items with clearance labels are usually discounted and often won’t be restocked.
3. Look for Promotions: Sometimes price tags include information about upcoming promotions or deals, so keep an eye out for additional savings.

Example: If you see an asterisk on a price tag, it’s a signal to act fast as the item may be going away soon.

Understanding Costco’s Hot Buys and Sales

Costco’s Hot Buys and sales are a great way to find discounts. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Hot Buys: These are specially discounted items that are featured in Costco’s promotions. They’re often limited-time offers, so be sure to check the Hot Buys section regularly.
2. Weekly Sales: Costco updates its weekly sales flyer with new deals. Reviewing this flyer can help you plan your shopping trip around the best discounts.
3. Seasonal Sales: Take advantage of seasonal sales for items like holiday decorations, summer gear, or winter essentials.

Example: During the back-to-school season, look for Hot Buys on school supplies and electronics to save big.

Shopping Secrets for Non-Costco Members

Not a Costco member? No problem. Here’s how you can still enjoy some Costco benefits:

1. Shop with a Member: You can accompany a Costco member to shop in-store and benefit from their membership.
2. Buy Online: Costco.com allows non-members to shop, though a surcharge may apply. Check online for deals and discounts.
3. Use a Costco Shop Card: Non-members can use Costco Shop Cards, which are gift cards that allow you to shop at Costco without a membership.

Example: Ask a friend or family member with a membership to help you buy bulk items you need, or use a Costco Shop Card to shop online.

How to Use a Costco Shop Card Without Membership

A Costco Shop Card allows you to shop at Costco without a membership. Here’s how to use it:

1. Purchase a Shop Card: You can get a Costco Shop Card from a member or buy one online if you’re a non-member.
2. Shop In-Store: Use the Shop Card at checkout just like you would use a credit card. You don’t need a membership card.
3. Shop Online: You can also use the Shop Card for online purchases. Just enter the card information during checkout.

Example: Use a Shop Card to buy items in bulk for a party or family gathering without needing a full membership.

Costco’s Warehouse Days: What You Need to Know

Costco Warehouse Days are special events where you can find additional discounts. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Event Timing: These events are usually held during specific times of the year. Check Costco’s website or your local store for dates.
2. Special Discounts: Expect extra markdowns on various items. This is a great time to buy big-ticket items.
3. Early Access: Members often get early access to Warehouse Days. If you’re a member, take advantage of this to get first pick of deals.

Example: Attend Warehouse Days to find discounts on electronics, appliances, or seasonal items.

How to Get Free Coupons from Costco Customer Service

Costco occasionally offers free coupons and discounts through customer service. Here’s how to get them:

1. Contact Customer Service: Reach out to Costco’s customer service via phone or email. Ask if there are any available coupons or upcoming promotions.
2. Check Online: Sometimes Costco posts special promotions or coupons on their website or social media channels.
3. Visit the Store: Ask a customer service representative at your local Costco for any current promotions or coupon offers.

Example: If you’re planning a big purchase, ask customer service if there are any applicable coupons to save even more.

The Best Days to Shop at Costco for Discounts

Certain days of the week offer better chances for discounts. Here’s when to shop:

1. Tuesday or Wednesday: These days are often less crowded, and you might find new markdowns as stores restock.
2. End of the Month: Look for new sales and discounts as Costco prepares for the new month and clears out old stock.
3. Holiday Sales: Major holidays often bring special sales and promotions. Shop around these times for extra savings.

Example: Shopping on a Wednesday morning can help you avoid the weekend crowds and take advantage of mid-week markdowns.

How to Read Costco’s Price Tags for Deals

Reading Costco’s price tags correctly can help you spot the best deals. Here’s what to look for:

1. Price Ending in .97: Indicates clearance or discount. It’s often a good deal, especially if the item is being discontinued.
2. Price Ending in .00: Suggests a special purchase or manufacturer’s deal, which might be a good price.
3. Price Ending in .49 or .79: Often means a promotional price, so keep an eye on these tags for potential savings.

Example: If you see an item priced at $24.97, it’s likely a clearance item. If it’s $24.49, it might be a promotional deal.

Using Costco Cash Cards: Tips for Non-Members

Costco Cash Cards are a convenient way for non-members to shop. Here’s how to use them:

1. Purchase a Cash Card: Obtain a Costco Cash Card from a member or through Costco’s website if you’re eligible.
2. Use at Checkout: Present the Cash Card at checkout just like a credit card. You can use it to pay for your purchases.
3. Check Balance: Keep track of your Cash Card balance to ensure you have enough for your purchases.

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Example**: Use a Costco Cash Card to buy groceries or household items without needing a membership.

How to Save on Big-Ticket Items at Costco

Big-ticket items like electronics or appliances often have significant savings potential. Here’s how to maximize your savings:

1. Watch for Seasonal Sales: Costco frequently offers discounts on big-ticket items during seasonal sales events.
2. Compare Prices: Before buying, compare Costco’s prices with other retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
3. Look for Extended Warranties: Costco often includes extended warranties on electronics and appliances, adding extra value.

Example: During Black Friday, look for deals on televisions or computers to save on high-priced items.

How to Maximize Savings During Costco Warehouse Days

Warehouse Days offer a unique opportunity for additional savings. Here’s how to make the most of it:

1. Plan Ahead: Review the promotional flyer or online ads before the event to identify the best deals.
2. Arrive Early: Get to the store early to avoid crowds and get first pick of discounted items.
3. Take Advantage of Bulk Savings: Buy in bulk for the best discounts on items you use frequently.

Example: If you know you’ll need a new refrigerator, check the Warehouse Days flyer for discounts and make your purchase during the event.

The Truth About Costco’s Asterisk (*) Pricing

An asterisk (*) on Costco’s price tags indicates important information:

1. Discontinued Items: Items with an asterisk are usually being discontinued. They’re often on clearance to make room for new stock.
2. Limited Availability: This tag signifies that the item may not be restocked once it’s sold out, so it’s often a final sale.

Example: If you see an item with an asterisk, it’s a good idea to buy it quickly if you’re interested, as it may not be available for long.

Understanding Kirkland Brand Pricing at Costco

Kirkland Signature is Costco’s private label brand. Here’s what you should know about its pricing:

1. Generally Lower Prices: Kirkland products often offer the same quality as name brands but at lower prices.
2. Consistent Quality: Kirkland items are usually made by well-known manufacturers, ensuring high quality.
3. Look for Special Offers: Keep an eye out for special promotions or discounts on Kirkland products.

Example: Compare Kirkland’s paper towels to other brands and you’ll often find them to be less expensive but of comparable quality.

How to Find the Best Deals in the Middle of Costco Stores

The middle of Costco stores can be a goldmine for deals. Here’s how to find them:

1. Check the Rotating Displays: Costco frequently updates its central displays with new and discounted items.
2. Look for Bulk Items: The middle aisles often feature bulk items with significant savings.
3. Explore Seasonal Sections: Seasonal items are often placed in the middle of the store, offering unique discounts.

Example: During back-to-school season, look for deals on school supplies and electronics in the middle aisles.

Costco’s 88 and 97 Price Endings Explained

Price endings can give clues about deals at Costco:

1. Price Ending in .88: Indicates a final clearance price, often to clear out remaining stock.
2. Price Ending in .97: Suggests a clearance item or a significant discount. It’s often the last markdown before an item is discontinued.

Example: An item priced at $9.88 is usually a clearance item, while $9.97 indicates a deep discount.

The Best Times to Buy Candy at Costco for Holidays

Costco often offers seasonal candy deals. Here’s when to buy:

1. After Holidays: Buy candy after major holidays like Halloween or Christmas for the best discounts.
2. Pre-Holiday Sales: Look for candy sales in the weeks leading up to holidays to stock up early.
3. End of Season: Purchase seasonal candy at the end of the season when Costco marks down remaining stock.

Example: Buy Halloween candy in November for discounts or stock up on Christmas candy in December before the holiday rush.

By following these tips and strategies, you can become a Costco shopping expert and save big on your purchases. Happy shopping! For more details, visit Costco’s official website.