5 Costco Staples That Deliver Serious Savings
Even though Costco requires an annual membership, the $65 price tag can be well worth it for many people. This is mainly because you can buy in bulk at Costco, which typically means paying a lower price per unit.
Additionally, Costco offers services and member perks that can save you a lot of money throughout the year. So, if you're thinking about joining Costco or recently became a member, it's helpful to know which purchases offer the best value.
For You: This Budget Habit Can Save Families $1.5K a Year on Groceries
Learn Next: 13 Unusual Ways To Make Extra Money (That Actually Work)
Here are five items where Costco is almost always the cheaper option.
Check Out: The Best Costco Buys To Grab Now Before Summer Ends
1. Gasoline
If you drive a lot, consider getting gas at Costco to lower transportation costs. According to CNBC, Costco gasoline prices generally run an average of 9 cents per gallon below the five largest local competitors. That might not seem like a lot at first, but if you’re driving every day, those savings can accumulate pretty fast.
If you fill up consistently from Costco, you might even save enough over the course of a year to offset much or all of the cost of your Costco membership.
2. Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are generally cheaper at Costco, especially for people paying out of pocket or enrolled in high-deductible health plans (HDHPs).
Costco also sells large bottles of pain relievers, allergy medications, vitamins and supplements under its Kirkland Signature label at prices that are lower on a per-dose basis than drugstores.
"I saved close to $2,000 this year alone when I switched from CVS to Costco Pharmacy," one customer shared on Reddit. "The best thing is even though Costco charges less, I get credit for the amount I was originally being charged at CVS. Huge win for someone on a HDHP."
3. Rotisserie Chicken
Costco's famous rotisserie chicken has become something of a legend because, despite inflation, it’s held the same price since it came out decades ago. At just $4.99, you’ll still be able to get one whole juicy chicken that can be turned into multiple meals.
If you need to hit your protein goals without breaking the bank, grab a couple of rotisserie chickens from Costco the next time you visit.
4. Kirkland Signature Staples
Costco's private-label Kirkland Signature brand has earned a reputation for offering quality comparable to national brands at lower prices. Under the Kirkland Signature brand, you can find all kinds of household staples like coffee, nuts, olive oil, granola bars, frozen foods and snacks that are all pretty affordable when you buy them in bulk.
5. Discounted Gift Cards
One of the best things about having a Costco membership is that you get access to discounted gift cards. You can buy gift cards for restaurants, entertainment venues, travel and other retailers for less than face value. For example, you can get four $25 Shake Shack e-gift cards (valued at $100) for just $79.99 or four $15 Krispy Kreme e-gift cards (valued at $60) for $44.99.
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.
More From MoneyLion: