15 Mistakes to Avoid When Shopping at Costco

Shopping at Costco is exciting, with so many great deals waiting to be discovered. But it’s easy to fall into a few common traps that can leave you spending more than planned or wasting what you’ve bought. Whether it’s overlooking key perks or buying too much at once, these simple mistakes can make your shopping trip less enjoyable and cost you money. With a few smart strategies, though, you can avoid these pitfalls and get the most out of every Costco visit. Let’s dive into the top mistakes people make and how to shop smarter!

Buying Perishable Items in Bulk

While Costco is known for its bulk items, purchasing perishable goods that spoil quickly can lead to wasted food and money. Items like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products may expire before you finish them. Instead, plan your purchases around your consumption habits. For small families or individuals, these bulk items may not be a wise choice. Keep an eye on expiration dates to ensure you’re buying items that will last. Always think about storage space before buying large quantities.

Not Upgrading Your Membership

Costco offers two membership types: the basic and the Executive membership. Many shoppers fail to realize that upgrading to the Executive level can provide a 2% cashback on purchases. If you shop frequently, this upgrade can lead to significant savings over time. However, if you don’t shop enough to break even on the additional membership cost, it may not be worth it. Always calculate your yearly spending before deciding. Some people overlook the potential cashback and miss out on long-term savings.

Ignoring Manufacturer Coupons

Costco offers its own store coupons, but many shoppers forget that they can also use manufacturer coupons. This can lead to missing out on additional discounts. While Costco’s policy on coupons varies by location, you can often stack savings if you plan ahead. Take time to browse through coupon apps or websites before shopping. Forgetting to check for available coupons is a common oversight. By combining offers, you can further lower the price of bulk items.

Shopping at Peak Hours

Visiting Costco during peak hours can lead to long lines and a less enjoyable experience. Weekends and weekday evenings are particularly crowded, making it harder to shop efficiently. You can save time by shopping during early weekday mornings. This also ensures that items like fresh produce are fully stocked. Many people don’t realize that Costco opens early for Executive members, which offers a quieter shopping experience. Avoiding peak times will also reduce impulse buying caused by hurried decisions.

Not Price-Comparing with Other Stores

Assuming that Costco always offers the best price is a mistake. While many items are cheaper, some products may actually cost more than they would at a regular grocery store. Use price comparison apps to check prices before purchasing. Be mindful that buying in bulk isn’t always cheaper, especially when considering waste or spoilage. Don’t rely solely on Costco for all your shopping needs. Comparing prices ensures you’re getting the best deal on every item.

Only Buying Name Brands

While Costco stocks many popular name brands, their Kirkland Signature brand often offers comparable quality at a lower price. Many shoppers stick to name brands out of habit, missing out on the savings Kirkland products provide. Costco ensures that Kirkland products meet high standards, often sourcing from the same manufacturers as name brands. Trying Kirkland items can lead to significant savings over time. Don’t overlook these house-brand products without giving them a try.

Overlooking Seasonal Discounts

Costco offers seasonal items and discounts, but some shoppers miss out by not timing their purchases. Holiday items, summer gear, and other seasonal products often go on sale at the end of their season. Planning your purchases to coincide with these markdowns can lead to big savings. It’s easy to get caught up in buying at full price when these deals are just around the corner. Keep an eye on flyers or Costco’s website for seasonal sales announcements.

Buying Items Just Because They’re on Sale

Costco frequently offers sales and discounts, but buying items just because they’re marked down can lead to unnecessary spending. Shoppers often buy things they don’t really need, thinking they’re getting a great deal. Before you make a purchase, ask yourself if the item is something you genuinely need or will use. Avoid being swayed by discounts on non-essential items. Sticking to a pre-planned list will help you avoid this common trap.

Ignoring Costco’s Gasoline Savings

Many Costco members forget about the significant savings on gasoline available at Costco gas stations. These savings can add up, especially for frequent drivers. If you’re already at Costco, filling up your tank can provide immediate savings compared to nearby gas stations. It’s worth checking fuel prices at Costco before visiting to take full advantage of this benefit. Some people bypass this perk, which can reduce the overall value of their membership.

Forgetting to Use Costco’s App

Costco’s app offers features that can improve your shopping experience, including digital coupons, store hours, and even gas prices. Some shoppers forget about this tool, which can streamline both in-store and online shopping. The app also allows you to manage your membership and track purchases. Not using the app means missing out on helpful tools and exclusive deals. Take advantage of its features to enhance your Costco experience.

Not Checking Expiration Dates

Bulk purchases can sometimes result in food waste if you don’t check expiration dates before buying. It’s easy to assume that all items in Costco’s inventory have long shelf lives, but that’s not always the case. Checking dates ensures you’re buying items that will last, especially when purchasing large quantities. This is particularly important for perishables. Don’t assume everything will stay fresh long enough to consume.

Shopping Without a Plan

Going into Costco without a shopping list or a plan can lead to impulse buying. The large variety and bulk items are tempting, and it’s easy to overspend. Having a list helps you stay focused and avoid unnecessary purchases. Plan your meals and household needs ahead of time to make the most of your shopping trip. This will also prevent you from forgetting essential items, saving you time and money.

Buying in Bulk Without Storage Space

Costco’s bulk items are great for savings, but they require ample storage space. Shoppers often overlook this, leading to cluttered kitchens or pantries. Before purchasing large quantities, make sure you have the space to store them properly. Overcrowded storage areas can cause food to spoil faster, leading to waste. It’s better to be realistic about your storage capabilities than to end up with more than you can handle.

Not Bringing Your Own Bags

Costco doesn’t provide traditional shopping bags, so many shoppers forget to bring their own. This can lead to inconvenience when transporting groceries. Bringing reusable bags is not only environmentally friendly but also ensures you can pack your items efficiently. Remembering bags will make checkout and transportation smoother. Make it a habit to keep a few reusable bags in your car for every Costco trip.

Overlooking Membership Renewal Perks

Costco offers incentives for members who renew their membership early, such as discounts or cashback. Shoppers often miss out on these perks by delaying their membership renewal. Renewing early can provide additional benefits beyond just continued access to the store. Check for special offers around renewal time to maximize your membership value. Be proactive in renewing to avoid lapses in membership benefits.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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