Grocery shopping at Costco is something that most people will do without thinking much about money. But did you know that there is, in fact, a kind of science to the process, especially if you become a member? There are certain warehouses that cater amazingly to said members. On any given Saturday, you will see countless customers milling about with fully loaded shopping carts. But how many of these eager consumers are loading their carts smartly? It all comes down to knowing what should be picked up, and what would best be left on the shelf, which we will get into now.
How To Shop Smartly And Affordably At Costco –The Items That Should Be Bought Or Avoided
Buy – Maple Syrup
What are pancakes without maple syrup? Not that nice, to be sure, but another given is that maple syrup will always be pricey. For this reason, many people will opt for corn syrup, especially your local diner’s cooks. To answer our money-saving needs, Kirkland’s Pure Maple Syrup is here to save breakfast. Go for a 1L container to make sure that every morning delight is always, well, delightful, without having to make breakfast a costly experience.
Maple Syrup
Don’t Buy – Books
This next tip is for the bookworms among us, who cannot go a day without losing themselves in a fantasy world. The wiser reading fanatics will assure you that Amazon is the only place that you should ever buy books from. Then there is the Amazon Kindle, which is an even more affordable way to read books, even if they are in digital form. For those that aren’t too fussy, second-hand books are the cheapest way to keep your hungry mind fed.
Books
Buy – Toilet Paper
Humanity will never forget the chaos that ensued during a particularly scary period where toilet paper became a contested commodity. While toilet paper packs are sizeable objects that will need plenty of space to store them in, Costco’s packs are not just affordable, but easily packed away. Of course, you might not mind sacrificing more storage space than you usually would when you see how much toilet paper you can buy at one convenient time.
Toilet Paper
Buy – Olive Oil
Most dishes require olive oil, especially if you are trying to do the healthy thing and avoid the unhealthier types of cooking oil. Costco will keep your diet rolling smoothly with its deals, ensuring that your kitchen is never without the good stuff. And when we say “good stuff”, we mean it, as this extra-virgin, organic, and top-quality olive oil from Costco is a real winner. Everyone loves olive oil, but not everyone enjoys spending a lot of money on the Italian staple.
Olive Oil
Don’t Buy – Ground Coffee
Some caffeine lovers might be panicking after reading this tip. While we understand that even suggesting that one should not buy coffee is blasphemy, we just want you to get the best tasting cup of joe imaginable, for a decent price. While the ground coffee at Costco is indeed affordable, it is not the most palatable. This is due to its exposure to air, which only makes the final product bitter, but less powerful than you need.
Ground Coffee
Buy – Gas
While many Americans will be scrambling for gas in the same way that they were for toilet paper a while back, Costco members probably relaxed knowing that the warehouse’s gas stations had them covered. Gas will always be affordable at these stations, and it is always a good idea to stop by them whenever your vehicle needs a refill. Just remember to keep your Costco membership card next to your credit card. Making the most out of rewards is a wonderful thing.
Gas
Don’t Buy – Kirkland Light Beer
Corona, Budweiser, and Guinness – what would we do without these wonderful tasting and incredibly refreshing beers? Well, a lot better than if we chose Kirkland Light Beer instead. If you are a true beer aficionado, then you would be better off sticking to the leading names in the beer world than this rather disappointing if not cheaper alternative. When it comes to refreshment, stick to what makes you the happiest, even if it means digging a bit deeper into your pocket.
Kirkland Light Beer
Buy – Frozen Fruits
You might consider purchasing a second freezer when you find out just how much frozen fruit you can buy in bulk from Costco. Frozen fruit like frozen berries are not just wonderful for smoothies, they will also keep you munching the sweet and healthy natural bounties for a long time. We were not joking about the second freezer, by the way, it really is a great investment, especially in the long run. You should never have to get creative when it comes to smoothies.
Frozen Fruits
Don’t Buy – Fresh Fruit And Vegetables
In contrast to buying frozen fruit wholesale, it is generally a bad idea to do that with fresh produce. This is due to the fact that fresh fruit and vegetables will only last a short while, and you might not end up eating it all before it goes off. Unless you end up freezing what you do not immediately use, then you will be wasting a lot. Rather get a lower quantity from your trusted local greengrocer.
Fresh Fruit And Vegetables
Don’t Buy – Spices
This is another wholesale option that is best avoided. You do not ever need a restaurant-level spice stockpile unless you need to feed many people every day! Spices also tend to lose their potency over time, as in the case of ground coffee. To keep your meals as fragrant and fiery as possible, buy a decent amount of spice at a time. Even those that are committed to making a large pot of curry every day can only use so much spice!
Spices
Buy – Vanilla
Vanilla, unlike other spices, will keep its potency for a long time, even if you buy it in bulk and plan on storing it for a long time. Of course, most people will go for vanilla extract, rather than the raw spice itself, so a big bottle of the essential baking ingredient from Costco is a fantastic purchase for serious bakers. You do not need to own a bakery to justify purchasing a larger bottle of vanilla extract, especially with these prices!
Vanilla
Don’t Buy – Tissues
Plenty of tissue types will get you through a cold or a sniffly nose, but you want to get the type of brand that assures no further irritation or even pain when your nose is really sore from all the sneezing and snot. It doesn’t really make sense to buy tissues wholesale, unless you suffer from terrible allergies and find yourself sneezing all the time. But even then, you need sensitive materials to avoid further aggravation.
Tissues
Buy – Tires
One of the big shocks for new drivers is finding out how much a new set of tires costs. That is why Costco’s Tire Centre will not only allow a full replacement, but a high-quality service with top brands. Those that have not become members can still go for this service, as the Tire Centre’s employees will attend to each driver’s needs with the same efficiency and dedication. Stay safe on the roads with the best tires.
Tires
Don’t Buy – Soda
Soda is one of those products that is best purchased at your favorite grocery store, rather than in bulk at Costco. There are so many beneficial deals at the various grocery stores that people frequent that you can save a lot of money by purchasing just a few bottles at discounts. Soda bottles in bulk will also take up a lot of space which you might not have in your pantry. Keep your fizzy needs in check!
Soda
Don’t Buy – Diapers
Being a new parent is an incredibly expensive change in anyone’s life. One of the costliest parts of raising a sweet little baby is keeping them wrapped up in diapers. Of course, your tots will be burning through diapers, which might prompt you to purchase them in bulk. Unfortunately, even Costco will not shave much off the total cost of a large pile of diapers. In this instance, try Amazon, which often offers amazing discounts on your baby’s needs.
Diapers
Buy – Breakfast Cereal
Cereal is one of those things that happens to be largely marketed to kids, but we are sure that parents eat a lot more of the sugary and crunchy treats! Costco is a fantastic place to get cereal from, and you will generally be able to find all the most popular brands at the retailer at discounted costs. The enormous boxes will keep your kids fed and energized every morning for as long as you like. Remember that cereal keeps for an incredibly long time.
Breakfast Cereal
Buy – Plastic Wrap
Kirkland and Vitawrap are two brands that provide amazing plastic wrap within the Costco collections. You should keep an eye out for them if you have plastic wrap needs like keeping leftovers fresh and tidy. While the plastic wrap that you can buy in bulk at Costco is incredibly cheap, it is also as strong and durable as most other brands of the stretchy stuff. Keep last night’s roast as fresh as the moment that it came out of the oven!
Plastic Wrap
Don’t Buy – Shampoo Or Soap
While you would expect an essential body product like shampoo or soap to be offered at premium discounts at Costco, unfortunately, the business does not offer deals. Rather, you could head to your local supermarket and look for the offers on shampoo or soap there. Just remember not to get any low-quality products, as your skin and hair need the proper care that your body deserves. Luckily, we have Google on hand to do some quick in-store research.
Shampoo Or Soap
Buy – Oatmeal
The Instant Oatmeal at Costco comes in 60 packet cases at a fantastic deal. This is an incredible premium that you will not find at grocery stores, and you could end up saving around $10 this way. The box is quite big, however, so make sure that you have enough space in your pantry before you commit to a couple of months of oatmeal goodness. Are you ready to give your stomach the best diet that it deserves?
Oatmeal
Buy – Healthy Bite-Sized Snacks
We all know that eating healthily can be a struggle while trying to save money. Unfortunately, the more nutritious snacks are far pricier than chips and candy. Of course, you cannot put a price on good health, but you can get a better one with Costco’s fare. Take Aussie Bites for example, where you can get 32 snacks for $12. These snacks are made from flax and sunflower seeds, dried apricots, rolled oats, and more.
Healthy Bite Sized Snacks
Buy – Cashews
Nut lovers, get ready for some of the best deals on cashew nuts imaginable! These incredibly delicious and nutritious nuts are best bought in bulk from Costco. We all know how much some stores will dare to charge for nuts, so buying them in large quantities at a premium is never a bad idea. Nuts will also stay fresh and crunchy for a long time, so you need not worry about wasting money or food.
Cashews
Don’t Buy – Condiments
Most people will only need one bottle for each of their favorite sauces, which will last them for a good few weeks, at least. There really is no need to splash out on condiments and buy them in large quantities, whether you live alone or with a group of people. Although condiments have a long shelf life, they will need to be refrigerated once open, and it can be a real pain having too many bottles in the fridge.
Condiments
Don’t Buy – Salsa
Although salsa is an essential part of any party, for a single person, the Costco jar is far too large. We all love chip and dip, but there is a time and place for any large party supply. Even if you get a great deal for a large tub of the spicy stuff, there is a good chance that you will end up throwing most of the contents away. Unlike many condiments, salsa does not keep for a long time.
Salsa
Buy – Snacks
Snacks are an essential part of any person’s life, no matter how old. From kids’ lunchboxes, to an adult’s working day sustenance, a large amount of snacks is essential for families and people living alone alike. The large cases that you can purchase at Costco will allow you to keep energized throughout the day without breaking the bank. From peanuts and raisins to chips and the healthier stuff, stock up with Costco and make your working life a little easier.
Snacks
Buy – Vitamins
While we all would love to be a bit healthier, can we afford to keep our medicine cabinets stocked with all the right supplements? While this would be quite a costly dedication if you relied on your local pharmacy, you can at Costco. You should know that many of the “leading” brands do not necessarily solely possess the right vitamins. There are plenty of lesser-known brands that will keep your body in good shape and vigor.
Vitamins
Buy – Batteries
From your TV remote to your kids’ remote-controlled cars, batteries are vital for keeping many of our toys and devices going. Although we are steadily moving away from devices that need batteries, they still form a big part of our home lives’ functioning. Costco will provide you with a bulk order of Duracell batteries, but you can also buy the Kirkland brand, seeing as their batteries are also made by Duracell! It always helps to do a bit of research while shopping.
Batteries
Buy – Milk
Ah, milk… the beautifully creamy and refreshing drink that most people around the world could not live without. Sadly, modern grocery prices mean that many people will not drink as much dairy as they would prefer. Unless, of course, they tried places like Costco. While you might not think that buying milk in bulk is a good idea, buying long-life or UHT milk in bulk is highly recommended. It tastes great and is just as nutritious as the traditional product.
Milk
Buy – Coffee Cups
What is life without at least a few cups of coffee a day? We cannot get much done without a good dose of strong coffee in the morning. While there has been a progressive shift toward purchasing single and durable coffee cups, rather than going through endless amounts of paper ones each time you need a cappuccino, let’s face it – coffee cups will always be necessary. We recommend that you get the affordable and durable variety available at Costco and keep your cash for better coffee.
Coffee Cups
Buy – Rotisserie Chicken
Did you know that Costco’s rotisserie chickens are the highest selling thing in the entire business’s wares? We absolutely adore munching down on a hot, salty, and most importantly juicy rotisserie chicken, and when you can get a whole one for $5, there is no guilt when it comes to getting a quick and easy lunch. These rotisseries chickens are also enormous and will satisfy a whole family’s hunger pleasingly. Whatever is left can easily be turned into chicken and mayo sandwiches the next day.
Rotisserie Chicken
Don’t Buy – Toothpaste
Why go out of your way to find a good deal on toothpaste when most supermarkets and pharmacies offer the essential oral hygiene product for cheap, anyways? Toothpaste never really needs to be bought in bulk when there are such good deals on just a few tubes. While the Costco varieties do come in enormous containers, there is only so much toothpaste that even the most avid oral care enthusiasts can use. Save your cash for the dentist!
Toothpaste
Buy – Peanut Butter
Who doesn’t adore peanut butter? From vegans to the more carnivorous among us, peanut butter is a firm favorite across the world. Whether you prefer your tub of peanut goodness smooth and creamy or crunchy and coarse, Costco will provide you with affordable and enormous family-sized tubs. You will never struggle to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with the options provided here. Keep your peanut butter cravings satisfied, always. I think I need to make one now, in fact!
Peanut Butter
Buy – Bagels
Did you know that Costco has an incredible range of bagels? We love the 2-pack deals the most, as you will get the most bang for your buck and save money for the more delicious fillings like cream cheese and smoked salmon. Then there are the actual flavors of the bagels themselves, which will suit any palate. Remember that bagels can keep for a long time in the freezer if you do not manage to gobble them all down within a week.
Bagels
Don’t Buy – Kirkland Almond Milk
For vegans and those with lactose intolerance, almond milk is an incredible alternative to dairy. Then there are those that simply prefer the nutty, creamy taste over that of cow’s milk. While the Kirkland brand of the dairy alternative is affordable, it doesn’t taste very pleasant. We would recommend the Almond Breeze brand instead. Although Costco’s variety is organic, its ingredients are not the best, either. Make sure that your coffee and tea are nothing but delicious.
Kirkland Almond Milk
Buy – Tahini
From salad dressing to hummus, tahini is a fantastic middle eastern condiment that we frankly cannot live without, particularly when it comes to hummus. Also known as sesame paste, tahini is often costly, especially when it is imported. Costco’s bulk packs will keep you stocked with enough tahini to make it through several dinner parties and simple, home-cooked meals of the middle eastern variety. We love to dip chopped carrots, cucumber, and even chips into hummus.
Tahini
Buy – Bacon
Americans have a reputation for being crazy about bacon, one that Costco successfully capitalized on. There are plenty of reasons why you should buy Kirkland bacon in bulk. If you love nothing more than bacon and eggs for breakfast, then you can easily justify buying a large amount of the streaky pork cuts. You no longer need to hold back when making the BLT sandwich of your dreams. You can also freeze as many of the tidily packed packets as you need.
Bacon
Buy – Bacon Crumbles
From bacon strips to bacon crumbles, Costco seems to have you covered for all your bacon-related needs. While most of us prefer eating bacon in whole strips, there are many dishes that call for the diced version. Take Caesar salads, for example. Why waste time chopping bacon up when you have so much else to do? Scrambled eggs with bacon bits mixed in is also an incredible alternative to the classic breakfast staple. We all love bacon, no matter what form it is in!
Bacon Crumbles
Buy – Fresh Eggs
Did you know that not all eggs are laid the same? Indeed, there is quite a fascinating and delicious range of eggs available in most stores, but the most important detail that you need to look out for is their size. Costco has an amazing range of eggs that will suit every stomach size. You can also choose how ethically sourced your eggs are, with free-range and conventional eggs being plentiful on shelves. For the best choice, try Costco.
Fresh Eggs
Buy – Food Court Soda And Hot Dogs
Have you ever considered what the food court at Costco’s most popular choices are? The pizza seems to be the most frequently purchased item, but others would disagree, believing that the soda and hot dog combo is the people’s choice. Incredibly, the combo is so highly favored, that an entire fansite was established to express the fans’ love for Costco’s marvelous hot dogs. Don’t take our word for it, however, as this is “the best hot dog in America” according to Business Insider!
Food Court Soda And Hot Dogs
Buy – The Food Court’s Acai Bowl
If hot dogs and pizza are not your preferred snack, and you would rather enjoy a healthier option, then the acai bowl is a great alternative to keep you going. With a price tag of $5, this natural meal is a fantastic way to get your nutritious and tasty fix. While many healthy eating spots will charge exorbitant prices for their fares, Costco offers plenty of incredibly healthful meals at very fair rates. Eat up!
The Food Courts Acai Bowl
Buy – Cheese
From toasted cheese sandwiches, to mouthwatering charcuterie boards, cheese is a wonderful food that most people enjoy. Unless you suffer from lactose intolerance, are vegan, or just cannot stomach the strong-tasting stuff, cheese is a staple in most diets. At Costco, $20 will acquire an incredible amount of cheese, enough to host several dinner parties’ cheese boards! Enjoy wowing everyone at your next big event with a sensational and delicious variety of cheeses. Just don’t forget the crackers!
Cheese
Skip – Signature Gas Grill
When it comes to gas grills, you really do not want to skimp on quality for the sake of a good price. Gas grills need to be sturdy and dependable. Not only can they ruin your next big barbecue, but you do not want to risk a nasty accident when a shoddy gas grill begins to break down. We would rather that you did not consider the Costco gas grill, as despite its price tag being just half that of the Weber product, you cannot sacrifice the quality that the latter product provides.
Signature Gas Grill
Buy – Organic Berries
While we did advise against purchasing fresh produce in the past, there are some exceptions to that rule. Organic berries are a fantastically delicious and healthy type of fruit, but they are also expensive and quite dependent on the season when it comes to availability. When Costco has a large amount available, and at an incredible pricing, you simply should not skip on the ultimate smoothy package. Whether you love to snack on these tasty energy bombs, or want the ultimate smoothy, this is the way to go. v
Organic Berries
Skip – Dried Yeast, Baking Powder, And Flour
Contrary to popular opinion, baking ingredients like flour, dried yeast, and baking powder do not last that long in the pantry. There are some products that will, of course, but the Costco variety sadly has a diminished shelf life. You will not see much usage in these products if they are purchased in bulk, and you can only make so many baked treats unless you run your own bakery. Rather, buy only as many baking recipes as you need for a few batches of cookies, muffins, or cakes.
Dried Yeast Baking Powder And Flour
Buy – Kirkland Organic Coconut Water
Coconut water is a healthy, incredibly tasty, and wonderfully refreshing alternative to soft drinks and other types of fruit juice. Coconut water keeps for a long time and if you love the stuff, then you will probably get through it in a short amount of time. Kirkland’s organic coconut water deal comes with 12 units. Coconut water is highly nutritious, consists of 94% water, and has a very low fat content. It is also very high in antioxidants.
Kirkland Organic Coconut Water
Buy – Verka Organic Yogurt
Yogurt is a wonderfully healthy and delicious dairy product that contains more than enough healthy bacteria to work as an efficient probiotic. Get your gut health into perfect balance with the Verka organic yogurt from Costco. With 64 ounces per tub, having to pay a bit more money than you would for a 16-ounce product at other shops is not even a small sacrifice. As for the quality of Verka organic yogurt, it is highly recommended by the Cornucopia Institute.
Verka Organic Yogurt
Skip – Las Fortunitas Tortilla Chips
Las Fortunitas Tortilla Chips are crunchy, salty, and fresh enough to handle any kind of salsa, no matter how tangy. While we are sure that you and your friends can munch your way through a bucketful of the stuff, you might not be able to handle an entire garbage bag’s worth. While tortilla chips do last a good while, the Fortunitas Tortilla Chips are a tall order even for the largest parties. The brand from Costco also contains unhealthy hydrogenated oils.
Las Fortunitas Tortilla Chips
Buy – Kerrygold Butter
What is life without butter? If you had to ask a vegan, they would probably tell you that it wasn’t that difficult living without the greasy goodness of butter, but we are sure that many of us cannot live without it. As for Kerrygold butter, you really do not get much better than its silky, delicious contents. Costco provides very good pricing on the Kerrygold product. Make sure that your butter is always of a high standard!
Kerrygold Butter
Buy – Kirkland Vodka
Are you having a party soon, or does your preferred way to wind down after a long week involve the Russian spirit? We love getting good deals on liquor, especially considering how expensive it can be to provide enough booze for a party. Costco’s house brand is of a standard comparable to Grey Goose. Don’t take our word for it, however, as the Kirkland French Vodka product was a top choice in various online popularity tests.
Kirkland Vodka
Skip – Hearing Aids
Anyone that is hard of hearing will tell you that hearing aids are among the most expensive products in their lives. These highly sensitive and advanced gadgets are indeed very pricey but are vital for people with hearing problems to lead normal lives. While Costco does provide the items at a lower cost, you should rather go to more reputable sources for the items. The complaints mentioning the centers’ poor service should be enough to steer you away.
Hearing Aids
Buy – Prescription Glasses
While you should not deal with your hearing problems through Costco, you might have better luck going to the shop if you suffer from eyesight issues. These are also expensive items, which many people purchase online. This is not always the best choice, however, as the perfect fit can generally only be achieved in-store. Costco has a dedicated optometry department that provides eye tests and prescription glasses. Those without the relevant health insurance could try Costco Optical.
Prescription Glasses
Buy – Floral Wedding Arrangements
Weddings are incredibly expensive. The cost of getting married with style and pizazz is sometimes crippling for couples that do not have extravagant budgets or salaries. Luckily for them, Costco will provide such couples with wonderful wedding supplies, including full sets of floral wedding arrangements. These are beautiful arrangements that are similar to those which professional florists would arrange. Such arrangements only cost a few hundred dollars, with $449 generally being the maximum cost on their packages.
Floral Wedding Arrangements
Buy – Luggage
While Costco’s luggage selection is not as extensive as those of dedicated luggage brands, you can still find what you need when it comes to your travel requirements, unless you have very specific needs. Clark Deals mentioned the Costco luggage warehouse in its definitive list of luggage bargain providing establishments. We make a point of collecting the relevant coupons for these items, as even with competitive pricing, luggage is not cheap! Keep your personal belongings safe when you travel.
Luggage
Skip – Name-Brand Clothing
You might have heard of the latest developments in fashion that recommend the purchase of a few high-quality pieces as opposed to a flood of cheap clothing. While you can find name-brand clothing at Costco, it is not of recommendable quality. While you will be able to get a lot more pieces from this range than you would at more renowned stores, they will not be the most comfortable and have a high chance of tearing and ripping in a short while.
Name Brand Clothing
Buy – Shirts And Pants For Work
Although we would not recommend that you buy designer brands from Costco, the same cannot be said of working clothes. The less fashionable choices won’t be turning any heads, but they will allow you to stay comfortable, warm, and safe at your place of employment. Take Red Flag Deals’ comments for example. One forum user said that Kirkland provides all his work shirts, which is incredible considering how much wear and tear work clothes can often sustain while on the job.
Shirts And Pants For Work
Buy – Athleisure Clothes
Athleisure has become an increasingly popular fashion choice for those that lead active lifestyles. If you need something comfortable and stretchy for yoga, or need clothing that will keep you feeling fresh while on a long run then the athleisure range at Costco is a great choice. Tough Nickel is one blog that recommended Costco to score deals on a bundle of athleisure ranges. High-quality and yet affordable athleisure wear is essential for enjoyable workouts.
Athleisure Clothes
Buy – Underwear
Costco’s underwear range will keep you comfortable and fresh in your most sensitive areas. While such clothing is recommended by many people, due to the comfort and affordability of these items, some did have complaints to make about the elastic bands. There are plenty of types of underwear for you to choose from in this range, so make sure that you find the perfect type of underwear for you, and test out the elastic band before buying!
Underwear
Buy – Flu Shots
In the time of COVID-19, flu shots are an excellent way to boost your immune system to hopefully have a less intense ride in the event that you contract the dreaded virus. So, that being said, where is the best place to get flu shots without spending too much money on beneficial health boosts? Costco is a great place to get a flu shot without breaking the bank, especially if your health insurance program does not cover this kind of treatment.
Flu Shots
Buy – TVs
There are many people that go the extra mile when it comes to TVs, only buying from select brands, and putting in the extra investment to get a high-quality piece of visual entertainment. If you do not mind which brand provides your Netflix needs, however, then head down to your nearest Costco and check out their TV selection. You can never go wrong with a smart TV from Costco, and in the case that you do, you can return it with the 2-year extended warranty at hand.
TVs
Buy – Golf Balls
Indeed, you can stock up on golf supplies at Costco! Is there anything that you can’t get at Costco? While we cannot speak for the quality of their golf clubs, Kirkland’s golf balls are a winning choice for golfers. It would appear that golfers have taken to the brand, too. Golfalot was highly impressed with the quality and durability of these golf balls, which they compared to leading golfing brands’ products. Given how many golf balls you will lose while playing, there is no need to spend a lot of money on them.
Golf Balls
Don’t Buy – Electronics
Costco is a true mixed bag when it comes to shopping. Plenty of people prefer to fulfill all their grocery needs at the establishment, while others will look at books, clothing, and accessories, too. While we would not blame you for browsing through their electronics section, you’d best ignore the allure of flashing lights and high-resolution screens. Rather, check out other stores for better deals on electronics, especially those that do need memberships to join in the goodness.
Electronics
Buy – Nuts
Costco lovers will be happy to learn that the warehouse shop will provide a wonderful and delicious variety of nuts. You can get your favorite types of nuts in enormous bags, too. Nuts can become very expensive in large quantities or when purchased from more expensive and fancy shops. Knowing that you can gorge yourself on pistachios, peanuts, and cashew nuts without spending a lot of money is a great thing to know for any nut lover!
Nuts
Don’t Buy – Kirkland Signature Paper Towels
Paper towels are hugely helpful not only for cleaning up messes in the kitchen, but the home at large. Although the Kirkland Signature Paper Towels pack comes with 30 units and is a very tempting choice, you might think twice about buying them when you learn of their quality reviews. One study displayed the paper towels’ quality as being substandard, being the second-worst result. Further, Consumer Reports released a study that ranked the Kirkland product as the worst out of the five reviewed.
Kirkland Signature Paper Towels
Buy – Pills
Medication is something that most people will buy when they are feeling under the weather. Aside from people that are critical of the pharmaceutical industry and prefer to get through colds with herbs, fruits, and spices, we all need medication to carry us through a nasty bout of the sniffles. A Consumer Reports study showed that Costco was the most affordable place to buy medication anywhere in the United States. Now you can heal the affordable way!
Pills
Don’t Buy – Sunscreen
Sunscreen is one of those essential products for anyone looking to avoid a nasty sunburn when at the beach or even out and about on a daily basis. There is a time limit to the substance’s effectiveness, however, and most products will lose their protection after 3 years. At Costco, you can get a large amount of sunscreen, but you should check whether the stuff is nearing its expiry date as it could have been sitting there for a while.
Sunscreen
Don’t Buy – Disposable Razors
While you wouldn’t be out of your league purchasing a massive number of disposable razors, you might not want to do so at Costco. Walmart is the better option in this case as they provide better deals. While $23 will get you 14 razors from Costco, for $7.97 you can get 10 disposable Gillette disposable razors from Walmart. We wouldn’t recommend getting disposable razors in general, however, as the proper ones will ensure a safe and enjoyable shave.
Disposable Razors
Buy – Raw Dough
Costco is an excellent source for baked goods, that is no mystery to most, but many people fail to recognize the sugary benefits that Costco provides. Then there is the raw dough, which is incredible for those looking to make fresh, hot, and mouthwatering cookies at home. You can get 21 cookies for $7.99, or you can spend a bit more and get your hands on 120 unbaked cookies at $22.99! This is more than enough to feed your kid’s entire class.
Raw Dough
Don’t Buy – Rice
Rice is one of those foods that most many people believe and claim that they cook the best. But what about those that claim they have the best place to buy rice from? One Costco shopper advises against getting it from the famous shop, as rice is 35% more expensive than it is at your area’s Asian shops. Of course, you would expect to find rice far more affordably at a Chinese market. Paying $40 for rice is ridiculous.
Rice
Don’t Buy – Dried Pasta
Ah, pasta, we love you! Who doesn’t? We will tell you who: those that are paying far too much for the Italian staple! Sadly, Costco has been identified as a place to avoid if you are looking to stock up on spaghetti, macaroni, or penne. It is just too expensive, and when it comes to buying pasta, you want enough for the whole family. Walmart and Trader Joe’s were listed as having far more affordable rates for their pasta products.
Dried Pasta
Don’t Buy – DVDs
While you might be wondering who even buys DVDs in the age of Netflix, Disney+, and Blu-ray, many people still enjoy slipping DVDs into their players and enjoying a nostalgic night in. But where would one go for the best deals on DVDs? Certainly not at Costco, as despite what you might think, the superstore sells them at quite a markup. Rather, check out Amazon’s incredible collection for the best deals. From Disney classics to action blockbusters.
DVDs
Don’t Buy – Gel Dishwasher Detergent
Gel dishwasher detergent is a decent alternative to the powdered product, but it often does not work as well as you would think, especially if you purchase the Kirkland Signature Gel. According to Consumer Reports, “The Kirkland Signature Gel is one of our lowest-rated detergents. It struggled with dishes, pots and pans, and resistance to water spots.” So, there you have it. Rather than suffering through unclean loads, get a more reliable detergent for your dishwasher.
Gel Dishwasher Detergent
Don’t Buy – Canned Goods
Canned goods might be aplenty at Costco, but that doesn’t mean that you wouldn’t find canned peaches in cream, beans, or chickpeas cheaper at other places. Some stores will provide you with rates that are between 20% and 40% cheaper. Most people like to stock up on the canned foods of their choice, so getting them at a more affordable rate is always a good idea. You can also be sure that canned goods will last a good while.
Canned Goods
Don’t Buy – Body Lotions
Body lotion is the key to attaining healthy and supple skin, but how much money is the average person willing to spend on skincare? Here is a little trick that we learned: collect coupons! Once you have enough to get a good amount of body lotion, then you can head off to shops other than Costco to cash in. Keep your skin smooth and hydrated to avoid getting wrinkles over time. We all owe it to our bodies to take care of them.
Body Lotions
Don’t Buy – Protein Bars
Protein bars are a staple for active folks that need that extra kick before going for a run or as a foundation for muscle repair after a heavy gym session. While the signature protein bars at Costco might be yummy and effective for active people, they are not worth the money, especially when you consider that they cost $1 per bar! Rather, you could jump onto Amazon’s website and purchase the Pure Protein bars for $0.90 each.
Protein Bars
Don’t Buy – Whole Grains
While whole grains are incredibly healthy, they have a property that stops them from keeping for as long as one might expect that they would. This is due to the oils that naturally form in such grains, around the germ and bran parts. Nuts and seeds also contain oils that will cause them to deteriorate. While some grains will have most of their oils removed, that does not mean that the foods are completely dry.
Whole Grains
Don’t Buy – Jerky
Spices and salt are used to turn beef cuts into beef jerky as a preserved meaty snack. While jerky is thought to be a dependable food for long whiles and trips, this is sadly not true. Meat is, at the end of the day, meat, whether it has been dried or left as it is after being butchered. You should eat your jerky in less than three days’ time if you don’t plan on refrigerating it once opened. Once in the fridge, jerky will last about a week or two.
Jerky
Don’t Buy – Hummus
Hummus is a delicious middle eastern dip that is excellent for chopped vegetables like carrot and cucumber sticks, or for chips and tortilla chips. While we would never stop you from buying hummus, there is a limit to how much anyone can eat, and a tub of hummus will most likely end up going sour before one even nears its bottom. So, unless you are going to have everyone you know over for a middle eastern themed party, buy smaller packages.
Hummus
Don’t Buy – Printer Paper
So many of us don’t even own printers anymore with how little we rely on printed paper in the digital age. Indeed, social media, email, and smartphones have all severely reduced how much paper we actually need. But if you still need the services of a printer, then you should try a place like Staples for printer paper rather than Costco. You will get a much better deal this way and save money on your work efforts.
Printer Paper
Buy – Gift Cards
Gift cards are always a good idea when it comes to buying a friend or loved one a nice present. That way, they can get whatever they want off the App Store or iTunes, and no one gets disappointed. Costco will provide big discounts on gift cards with reductions between 15% and 30%. You don’t always have to get gift cards for others, however, as treating yourself is perfectly fine, too! Enjoy the latest Taylor Swift album the clever way.
Gift Cards
Buy – Wine
Many people are sadly under the impression that Costco would not be a good place to be fine wines. Although Costco does provide incredible deals on bulk products, that does not mean that it cannot stock good wines. The Kirkland signature brand is actually well regarded by leading American wineries. You can get a delicious bottle of red or white at a cheaper rate than you would at other more expensive liquor stores elsewhere in America.
Wine
Buy – Meat And Poultry
Costco’s supermarkets provide meat and poultry cuts at decent prices. But did you know that you could go even lower if you were a member? Indeed, you can get so much more out of meat if you sign up. Not only that, the higher grades of beef are more readily available for the exclusive members. Remember that you can always keep your steaks and chicken breasts frozen if you do not manage to use everything at the next family barbecue
Meat And Poultry
Buy – Kirkland Animal Crackers
Animal crackers are a firm favorite for kids and parents alike. They’re crunchy, salty, and they are bound to put a smile on your face with their yummy cuteness. As for the Kirkland Signature Organic Animal Crackers, you can be sure that at $9.99 for a 64-ounce drum, you will be smiling for a long time. You can get similar products at other stores for the same cost, but with 4 ounces skimmed off, Costco is a better option.
Kirkland Animal Crackers
Buy – Kirkland Honey
Costco will provide you with some amazing honey products with a sweet deal at hand! Imagine getting 3 pounds of completely unfiltered and raw honey, made completely locally? That is what Costco’s Kirkland Signature brand will provide you, at $8.99 per jar! Considering that other stores will charge $12.99 per jar, at 2 pounds, this is an incredible deal. Whether you drizzle honey onto every smoothie bowl, or love to upgrade desserts with the melted gold, honey is amazing.
Kirkland Honey
Buy – Kirkland Italian Sparkling Water
Sparkling water is considered a real luxury in the beverage department, with brands like San Pellegrino making one think of fine dining or opulent getaways to Italian villas. Then there is the Kirkland Signature Italian Sparkling Mineral Water, which is just as refreshing, even if it doesn’t carry the same brand power. The pricing is where the real win comes in, however, as rather than paying $16.99 for a San Pellegrino case, you could get the bigger Kirkland pack for $12.99.
Kirkland Italian Sparkling Water
Buy – Kirkland Vitamin Water
While many people consider Glaceau Vitamin Water to be a waste of money, the Kirkland Signature Vita Rain Zero is a good deal, regardless of how you view the drink. While both products can be bought at Costco, their tastes and nutritional values are quite similar. Certainly, the prices are different. For $9.99, you can buy the 20-oz pack of Vita Rain Zero for $9.99. You can then enjoy 24 bottles of the tasty and healthy juice.
Kirkland Vitamin Water
Don’t Buy – Kirkland Laundry Detergent
While you might be able to save a bit of cash while buying the Kirkland Laundry Detergent, this is the sole benefit to be reaped from the purchase. Otherwise, this laundry detergent is quite toxic. Not only will it eat through your old clothes, but it is responsible for triggering asthma and allergy attacks while also exacerbating respiratory issues! Then there are the environmental effects, as when this poisonous stuff goes down the drain, you can be sure that it will do further harm.
Kirkland Laundry Detergent