Costco vs. Target: Which Store Has the Better Prices on 6 Winter Basics?
Shopping for winter essentials can be challenging. It might seem like no matter where you go, you’re bound to pay too much. So, you go to stores known for their deals like Costco and Target, but you might actually be overpaying at one of these, too.
Costco’s $65 membership feels like it should unlock the lowest prices on the market, but that’s not always the case. Then you’re spending $65 to shop at a place that isn’t even the most affordable.
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Meanwhile at Target, shoppers are concerned with being overcharged. Several stores in California had customers complain about paying more than they should have, according to the U.S. Sun.
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So, who really has the best deals? MoneyLion looked into the top winter items and price compared for you. Here’s where to go to stock up on your cold weather needs.
1. Women’s Fleece Jacket
For the months where the temperature is cold but not frigid, a fleece jacket is a go-to. At Costco, a fleece jacket from 32 Degrees is $16.99. The jacket has zipper pockets and comes in dark red, black or green. On the flip side, Target offers a similar women’s fleece from All in Motion for $30. It comes in four colors versus three, but it’s almost double the price of the Costco option.
Winner: Costco
2. Men’s Fleece Softshell Jacket
For the men looking for a fleece jacket, here’s what they’ll find at Costco and Target. Costco has a Kirkland Signature Men's fleece softshell jacket that’s water-resistant and wind-resistant for $29.99. A comparable jacket at Target is the men’s All in Motion softshell jacket. This jacket isn’t water-resistant or weather-resistant and costs $60.
Winner: Costco and it's not even close
3. Kids’ Lands’ End Full-Zip Fleece
Both stores carry a Lands’ End fleece that will keep kids warm and toasty during the colder months. At Costco, kids can get a Lands’ End hooded fleece for $11.99. Target sells a Lands’ End fleece without the hood for $31.46 but normally $44.95.
Winner: Costco
4. Thermal Socks
Keeping feet cozy and warm during the winter is essential. Costco sells a four-pack of Avalanche men’s thermal crew socks for $21.99. Comparably, Target sells a four-pack of Debra Weitzner thermal heated crew socks for $19.99 (normally $29.99).
Winner: Target, but only for now
5. Starbucks Holiday Blend Medium Roast Keurig K-Cup Coffee Pods
With notes of maple and herbs, the Starbucks Holiday Blend K-cups give each morning a taste of good cheer. At Costco, you can get a pack of 72 for $35.99, which comes out to $0.50 a pod. At Target, packs come in 22 for $22.49. This works out to more than a dollar a pod.
Winner: Costco
6. Gift Tags
Every gift needs a festive label to go with it. Costco is selling a pack of 250 holiday gift tags and stickers for $35.99. That’s about $0.14 per tag. At Target, you can get a 50-pack of gift tag stickers from Wondershop for $3. That’s just $0.06 a sticker.
Winner: Target
Overall, Costco seems to have the better buys when it comes to winter items, but make sure to check the prices before you go shopping to confirm. Both stores offer price matching on items purchased in their own stores. So, if you buy an item at Costco and see they lower the price on it, you can get money back as long as you made the purchase within 30 days. For Target, the same policy applies, but you only have 14 days.
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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