3 Practical Ways To Shop Better at Costco This Fall
Costco has a well-earned reputation of offering (mostly) unbeatable prices — particularly on bulk items. For many consumers, the annual base fee of $65 pays for itself in spades. However worth it Costco already is in your eyes, you might actually be underestimating its powers. In other words, you could be saving more money at the warehouse club than you already are.
Joel Goldstein, president of Mr. Checkout Distributors and a shopping expert who works between consumer product brands, independent distributors and retailers, is tuned into each and every price rotation warehouse clubs make. He sees more than a couple missed opportunities among Costco shoppers — even those who have a pretty strong knowledge of how Costco operates.
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Consider these three expert-backed practical ways to shop better and save more money at Costco this fall.
Don't Wait: The Best Costco Buys To Grab Now For Fall
Buy Kirkland Olive Oil, Coffee, Nuts and Baking Supplies
If you’re a Costco loyalist, you’re highly familiar with the saving powers of Costco’s private label Kirkland and your shopping cart may already be filled with Kirkland goods. Still, you may not get just how profoundly Kirkland works.
Often, Kirkland items are not mere knockoffs of the more expensive alternative but in fact the exact same products — just with cheaper price-tags.
“The private label is often produced by the same manufacturer as the national brand next to it, at a lower price per ounce,” Goldstein said. “This fall stock up of olive oil, coffee, nuts and baking supplies [and save] between $30 and $50 in a single cart.”
Know the Secret Price-Tag Codes for Added Savings
Costco may aggressively market itself as a top savings destination, but it doesn’t aggressively market its intricate savings systems. For example, only the savviest of Costco shoppers know the secret meanings — and savings potential — buried under Costco’s price-tag codes.
“A price ending in 97 cents is a store markdown and a small asterisk in the corner means the item won't be replaced, so that's your cue to buy now,” Goldstein said. “On space heaters, bedding and holiday decor those tags can mean between 30% and 50% off the regular club price.”
Remember: Bulk Is Often Not the Best Buying Approach for Produce
Many shoppers discover the most significant savings at Costco by buying in bulk. Sadly, some of these shoppers might actually be wasting money by adhering to the philosophy that bulk is best — particularly when it comes to produce.
“Only buy produce in bulk if you have a plan for it,” Goldstein said. “A flat of berries is a great deal until half of it goes soft and the waste wipes out the savings and then some.”
Only buy produce in bulk if you’re throwing a huge party for which it can be used or have a robust freezer and meal prep plan. This is the only way to realize full discount potential. After all, part of saving money is about not falling for overspending traps.
Editor’s note: Prices and availability are subject to change.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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