Large warehouse stores like Costco offer many perks, from jumbo-sized items to excellent store brands, but that $55 yearly fee is not one of them!
While plenty of people split the membership cost with relatives, neighbors, roommates or friends, it’s always nice to dodge the added expense. And you can — if you apply these tactics to shop at Costco without holding a membership.
Below are six smart methods to reap Costco’s advantages without purchasing an annual pass.
1. Use a Costco Cash Card
Here’s a handy secret Costco probably won’t loudly promote: You can shop without a membership if you have a Costco Cash Card.
“Non-members may use the cash cards to shop at any Costco location in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and online at Costco.com or on Costco.ca,” states Costco’s site.
Only members can purchase Costco Cash Cards directly from the store’s website, but that’s not a dealbreaker. One way to save even more: buy your Cash Card oneBayor from a discounted gift-card marketplace likeRaise.
It doesn’t matter how small the balance is; even a card with $2 remaining will get you through the door and cover part of your purchase. Then you can finish payment with cash, a debit card or an American Express card.
2. Visit the Pharmacy
Prescription costs can add up, but Costco often offers lower prices on medications.
By law, you don’t need to be a member to use pharmacy services. Feel free to have new or refilled prescriptions handled at the Costco Pharmacy.
If you’d rather not go out, order onlineand your meds will arrive in six to 14 days via free standard USPS shipping.
3. Take Advantage of Hearing and Optical Services
Not every warehouse offers these services, but if yours does, Costco is an excellent option for seeing hearing or vision specialists. The same regulation that allows access to the pharmacy applies here, too.
Many locations also host special events to showcase hearing and eyewear products, and you can often attend these promotions as a non-member. Keep in mind, though, if you decide to buy glasses or hearing aids you’ll either need a membership or a Costco Cash Card as described above.
4. Shop on Costco.com
Maybe you want the best deal on a TV or tablet but don’t want to buy a membership for a single purchase. Check the item on Costco’s website — non-members can place orders online, though you should weigh the cost.
Without membership, a 5% surcharge applies, so this method is worthwhile only if you’re spending under $1,100 (so the extra fee is less than the $55 annual dues).
Still, the site accepts all major cards, so you can use your preferred rewards credit card to make the purchase.
5. Visit the Outdoor Food Court
Costco’s pizza is famously good! For just $1.99 you can grab a slice. If you need to feed a crowd — say, for a party — the large pizza is only $9.99.
If hot dogs are more your thing, the $1.50 hot dog-and-soda combo makes for a cheap, filling meal.
Many warehouses operate outdoor food courts that non-members can use. Just remember to bring cash, since some stands only accept cash payments.
6. Compare Prices
Uncertain whether Costco saves you money? Walk through the store and compare prices on the products you buy most to determine if the warehouse genuinely undercuts your neighborhood grocery.
Ask customer service about membership options, then mention you’d like to browse for a few minutes.
If you spot enough bargains, you may end up deciding the membership is worth the price after all!
Your Turn: Do you have other tips for shopping at Costco without a membership? Or did you conclude that a membership is right for you?
Disclosure: We have a serious Taco Bell habit here. Affiliate links in this piece help us keep ordering off the dollar menu. Thanks for supporting us!
As a long-time Costco shopper and a blogger atSavinly, Diane Schmidt has helped friends and family score excellent Costco deals. Beyond enjoying their products and prices, she estimates saving at least $7,000 through shopping there.
