FOOD NEWS
16 Costco Shopping Hacks For A Better Overall Experience
BY SARAH O'PHELAN
Buy Larger Meat Cuts
Costco has many unbelievably low prices, and if you want to get even more bang for your buck, opt for large cuts of meat instead of pre-sliced options.
Buying large cuts of meat and cutting it yourself can save you up to $3 per pound. You’ll have to prep the meat yourself, but you’ll have more control over the process.
Order Food At Checkout
If you’re a fan of the Costco food court, you can save time by ordering your food at checkout while still paying for your groceries and other finds.
Note that not all locations offer this service, and some customers say that if it’s available, clerks will preemptively ask customers. However, it doesn’t hurt to ask.
Upgrade Your Membership
While the base-level Gold Star membership is excellent for the average shopper, frequent Costco shoppers should upgrade to Executive.
The Gold Star membership costs $60 a year, while the Executive costs $120 a year with benefits like a 2% reward on eligible pre-tax purchases, up to $1,000 per year.
Secure Your Wine
Costco is great for stocking up on items, and if you’re loading up on wine, try this tip to properly secure your bottles so they don’t roll around in the cart.
As shared by a Costco employee, flip up the child seat in the top portion of the cart and lay your bottles with their necks nestled in the gaps of the frame to avoid any rolling.
Upgrade Your Hot Dog
You may be tempted to scarf down your Costco hot dog as soon as you get it, but for a better experience bring it home to load with toppings.
While the food court has limited condiments, the options at home are endless. You can add cheese, toast the bun, or top it with diced onions and specialty mustard.