Costco Promo Codes & Coupons $60 Off Off in January 2026
From the towering aisles of bulk-buy bargains to the intoxicating smell of fresh-baked goods, a Costco run feels like a treasure hunt designed to stretch your dollar. But gaining access to the warehouse requires an upfront investment, and understanding the current Costco membership cost helps you calculate your potential savings. Savvy shoppers know that paying the annual fee is just the first step to great discounts.
While Costco doesn't flood the internet with coupon codes like other retailers, they do offer a powerful set of promo codes, new member bonuses, and insider tricks that can significantly boost your bottom line. We've sifted through the deals and decoded the price tags to bring you the ultimate guide to unlocking maximum savings at your favorite warehouse club.
What Costco Promo Codes Are Available This January?
Costco 1-Year Gold Star Membership
$65 w/ $20 Costco Shop CardGet a $20 Costco Digital Shop Card when you sign up for a one year Costco Gold Star Membership at Groupon for $65. This offer is valid only for new members and those whose previous memberships have been expired for at least 18 months or more. The Costco Gold Star Membership includes two cards and everyday discounts online and in warehouse.
Uber/Uber Eats $100 eGift Card
$80 for membersGet $100 in Uber/Uber Eats gift cards for 20% off. You can order a maximum of 2 units per membership every 14 days.
Costco January Online Savings Deals
Up to $2,500 offShop Costco's latest round of online savings and you could save up to $2,500 on a variety of items to kick-start your new year. You'll find deep discounts on exercise equipment, jewelry, small kitchen appliances, coffee, gift cards, and more. Shipping will vary by item, so double check the product page to find out if shipping and handling is included or if it'll be an additional charge.
Large Appliance Deals at Costco
Up to $1,650 offShop select large appliances and save on dishwashers, refrigerators, washers, dryers, and more. Delivery fees will vary, but some items may qualify for "buy more, save more" promotions as well.
Home Furniture Deals at Costco
Up to $1,900 offUpgrade your home furniture with discounts on living room seating, dining sets, bed frames, accent cabinets, and more. You can save up to $1,900 with this set of deals, and some may qualify for Costco Direct "buy more, save more" promotions as well. Delivery fees can vary, but for some items delivery, setup, and packaging removal are included with your purchase. Be sure to check the product page thoroughly to know what to expect.
Home & Kitchen Deals at Costco
Up to $150 offShop household appliances like vacuums as well as small kitchen appliances like frozen drink makers, multi-cookers, and more in this set of deals. You'll also find things like sheet sets, towel sets, and rugs, among others for up to $150 off. Shipping will vary, but some items may be available in your local warehouse so you can avoid the fees and get your items sooner.
Patio & Garden Deals at Costco
Up to $1,700 offshop outdoor equipment like pressure washers and portable solar generators as well as things like spas, greenhouse, patio furniture, and more in this set of deals. You'll save up to $1,700 and be ready to enjoy your outdoor setup as soon as warmer weather arrives. Delivery can vary, so be sure to check the product page thoroughly to see what kind is included in your purchase.
Electronics Deals at Costco
Up to $350 offIf you're looking for new computers, smartwatches, and more, this set of Costco deals is a great place to start. You'll find iPads, AirPods, and Ring doorbells as well as accessories like TV mounts included in these discounts. Shipping can vary, so be sure to check the product page thoroughly.
Mattress Deals at Costco
Up to $700 offShop a variety of mattresses and upgrade your sleep with this set of deals at Costco. You'll find big brands like GhostBed, Tuft & Needle, Sealy, and more discounted by up to $700. Note that delivery may vary and many models may only be delivered to your doorstep with setup not included, so be sure to thoroughly check the product page to know what to expect.
Home Improvement Deals at Costco
Up to $700 offSave on flooring, toilets, solar-powered generators, shelving, and much more with this set of deals at Costco. Note that shipping will vary depending on the item so be sure to thoroughly check the product page to know what to expect.
Clothing Deals at Costco
Up to $20 offShop Costco's already affordable apparel deals and save even more. Many of these items will have shipping included, but be sure to check the product page thoroughly to avoid surprises at checkout.
Grocery Deals at Costco
Up to $110 offStock up on things like coffee and protein bars as well as household essentials like laundry detergent, dishwasher packs, and more in this set of deals. Note that shipping can vary, so be sure to check the product page thoroughly to know what to expect. The highest discounts will be on things like survival food sets or more luxurious items, but there are plenty of everyday values worth shopping as well.
Health & Beauty Deals at Costco
Up to $150 offShop a variety of health and beauty items at Costco and save up to $150 on things like protein powder, toothbrushes, razor, skin cream, and more. Shipping can vary, so be sure to check the product page thoroughly to know what to expect.
Unlike many online retailers that seem to have a new 20% off code every other day, Costco plays its cards a little closer to the chest. Their savings strategy is more focused on deep, consistent value rather than a constant stream of temporary promotions. That said, January is actually a surprisingly active month for specific types of codes, especially for those looking to get organized or get in shape for the new year.
Generally speaking, Costco does not use universal discount codes; instead, they utilize a system of "Instant Savings" and targeted offers. To find a working code, you usually need to look for specific membership sign-up bonuses, limited-time delivery offers, or service-specific deals.
Types Of Costco Promotions And Discounts
To help you navigate the current landscape, we have broken down the different categories of savings you will encounter this month. Understanding these distinctions is the first step to ensuring you never miss a deal:
- Membership Sign-Up Bonuses: These are the most common "codes" available. New members who sign up for a Gold Star or Executive membership and enroll in auto-renewal can often earn a Digital Costco Shop Card (usually valued between $20 and $40). You can find these deals directly through Costco.com using specific promo codes or via partner sites like StackSocial and Groupon.
- Same-Day Delivery Codes: If you use Costco's Same-Day delivery service (powered by Instacart), keep an eye out for limited-time promo codes. These often offer discounts like $15 off orders of $50 plus, though they are frequently restricted to first-time users or specific seasonal events.
- Instant Savings: This is Costco's bread and butter. Rather than requiring you to copy and paste a code at checkout, these discounts are automatically applied to eligible items—like furniture, electronics, and appliances—both in the warehouse and online.
- Targeted Email Codes: Rarely, Costco will send unique, single-use codes directly to a member's email address. These might be high-value offers like "$50 off a $500 online order." These are tied to your specific account and cannot be shared.
- Service and Travel Discounts: You can often find significant savings without a traditional code by using Costco Services. This includes pre-negotiated rates on the Costco Auto Program, exclusive rebates at the Tire Center (often for Michelin or Bridgestone), and Digital Shop Cards included with vacation packages booked through Costco Travel.
How To Find Current Codes And Deals
Because Costco doesn't splash generic coupon codes all over the homepage, you have to know where to look. Here are the most reliable methods for finding valid offers in January:
- Check the "Deals" Tab: Your first stop should always be the "Deals" section on Costco.com. This page aggregates all current Instant Savings, online-only offers, and manufacturer rebates.
- Sign Up for Emails: This is crucial. Subscribe to the Costco email newsletter to receive notifications about "Member-Only Savings" events, exclusive online offers, and those rare, targeted promo codes sent directly to your inbox.
- Verify for Exclusive Group Discounts: If you are a student, teacher, medical professional, first responder, or military member, use the ID.me verification tool on the membership page. This often unlocks exclusive sign-up offers and Shop Card bonuses.
- Browse the Monthly Savings Book: Mailed to members and available in the app, this book lists the "Instant Savings" that function like coupons but are applied automatically at the register or online checkout.
- Visit Partner Sites: For membership deals specifically, check reputable third-party platforms like StackSocial, Groupon, or T-Mobile (for carrier-specific bundles) to see if they are running a Shop Card promotion.
Navigating the world of Costco discounts can feel like learning a secret language, but once you understand that "Instant Savings" are better than promo codes, the deals get much easier to find. By keeping an eye on your email and checking the dedicated deals page, you can rest assured you aren't leaving money on the table. And of course, for the most up-to-date and verified offers, you can always rely on the team here at DealNews to do the heavy lifting for you.
How to Redeem a Costco Promo Code
So you've found a great Costco promo code—nice work. The good news is that putting it to use is a simple process, though it varies slightly depending on whether you are shopping online or walking through the warehouse doors. Unlike standard retailers, Costco relies heavily on "Instant Savings" that apply automatically, but for membership bonuses and specific digital offers, you will need to know exactly where to type those characters.
Here is the step-by-step breakdown of how to claim your discount:
For Online Purchases (Costco.com and Same-Day Delivery)
Most promo codes, including new member sign-up bonuses and "buy more, save more" offers, are redeemed during the digital checkout process.
- Add Items to Cart: Browse the site and add your eligible items (or your new membership) to your shopping cart.
- Proceed to Checkout: Click the cart icon and select "Checkout." You will need to log in or verify your membership number to proceed.
- Locate the Promo Code Field: On the "Order Summary" or payment page, look for a box labeled "Promo Code" or "Apply Code." It is typically located on the right-hand side of the screen, just below the subtotal.
- Enter and Apply: Type your code (e.g., CJPROMO, SUMMER25) into the box and hit "Apply."
- Verify the Discount: Ensure the specific dollar amount or "promotion applied" message appears in your total before you click "Place Order."
For In-Store Redemptions and Instant Savings
Redeeming deals inside the warehouse works a bit differently since Costco rarely uses scannable coupons for general merchandise.
- Automatic "Instant Savings": The majority of red-tag deals in the warehouse require no code at all. When you check out, the system recognizes the item and automatically deducts the savings from your total.
- The Costco App: For specific member rewards or digital vouchers, open the Costco App on your phone. You can access your digital membership card and any active offers to show the cashier at the register.
- Membership Vouchers: If you purchased a membership deal through a third party (like Groupon or StackSocial), you will typically receive a voucher. You can either redeem this online to set up your account or bring the physical printout/digital code to the Membership Desk at your local warehouse to get your card issued.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your code isn't working, check these common culprits:
- Eligibility: Many codes are for new members only or require a minimum spend (e.g., "$50 off $500").
- Case Sensitivity: Double-check for typos or extra spaces.
- Expiration: Targeted email codes often have short windows of validity; ensure the offer hasn't expired.
Key Things to Know About Costco Discounts
Getting the hang of Costco's savings game is a bit different from other retailers. It is less about chasing daily coupon codes and more about understanding their unique system of value. From their legendary rewards program to the secret language of their price tags, there are many layers to saving at the warehouse club. To help you become a true Costco pro, we have answered the most frequently asked questions about how their discounts, memberships, and policies work in 2026.
What Does Costco Membership Cost in 2026?
Before you can access the deals, you need to get through the door, and that requires knowing the current cost of entry. Following the price increase in late 2024, the membership fees have stabilized at their current rates for 2026. You can sometimes find discounts on a Costco membership itself, and understanding the tier benefits is crucial for calculating your potential return on investment.
- Gold Star Membership ($65/year): This is the standard entry-level membership. It grants you and one other person in your household access to all Costco warehouses worldwide and to Costco.com.
- Executive Membership ($130/year): This premium tier includes all Gold Star benefits plus an annual 2% reward on most qualified Costco, Costco.com, and Costco Travel purchases. It also unlocks extra savings on Costco Services like auto insurance and bottled water delivery.
- Business Membership ($65/year): Designed for business owners, this tier allows you to purchase for resale and includes one free household card, with the option to add affiliate cardholders for $65 each.
How Do Costco Discounts Stack Up Against Other Warehouse Clubs?
The warehouse club space is a battleground of giants, with Costco, Sam's Club, and BJ's Wholesale Club all vying for your loyalty. While they all operate on a similar bulk-buy model, they have distinct personalities and strengths that appeal to different types of shoppers. The "best" one for you really depends on what you value most—be it rock-bottom prices, specific product quality, or specific shopping perks like using manufacturer coupons.
To help you decide which membership deserves a spot in your wallet, here is a quick breakdown of how the three major clubs stack up in 2026:
|
Retailer |
Membership Cost |
Key Strengths |
Unique Perk |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Costco |
$65/year |
Premium store brand, excellent return policy. |
$1.50 hot dog combo and high-end rotating inventory. |
|
Sam's Club |
$50/year |
Lower membership fees, shopping technology. |
"Scan and Go" app lets you skip the checkout line. |
|
BJ's Wholesale Club |
$60/year |
Accepts brand coupons, full-service deli counter. |
Offers smaller "bulk" pack sizes that are easier to store. |
Ultimately, while competitors like Sam's Club might occasionally beat Costco's price on certain name-brand items, Costco consistently wins praise for the superior quality of its in-house Kirkland Signature products and its generous member benefits. It's a classic case of value over pure price, where you often get a better product for a very competitive cost.
When Is the Best Time to Save at Costco?
While any trip to the warehouse can yield great deals, timing your visit can definitely play a role in maximizing your savings and minimizing your stress. If you are looking to score the freshest markdowns or simply want to shop without bumping carts in every aisle, you need to know the rhythm of the warehouse schedule.
- Shop on Mondays: Many "Member-Only Savings" deals expire on Sundays, so managers often mark down remaining inventory or clearance items first thing on Monday morning.
- Mid-Week Mornings: Tuesdays and Wednesdays between opening and noon are generally the quietest times to shop, giving you more space to browse for unadvertised deals.
- Post-Holiday Clearance: The days immediately following major holidays like Christmas or Halloween are prime time for deep discounts on seasonal decor, toys, and chocolates.
- January White Sales: The start of the year is traditionally when Costco offers its best prices on furniture, bedding, towels, and organization essentials.
The Costco Annual Savings Calendar
While "Instant Savings" rotate monthly, veteran shoppers know that Costco follows a predictable seasonal rhythm. If you are planning a major purchase, checking this calendar can prevent you from buying a TV a week before the price drops.
- January and February: The "New Year" focus brings deep discounts on furniture, organization bins, and fitness equipment. It is also Super Bowl season, making it one of the best times to buy large-screen 4K TVs.
- March and April: As tax refund season hits, look for deals on laptops, tablets, and tax software. Spring gardening supplies and patio furniture also begin to appear.
- May and June: The focus shifts to summer prep. Expect high-value offers on mattresses (Memorial Day) and outdoor essentials like grills, sunscreen, and pool floats.
- July and August: This is the transition to "Back to School." Look for bundles on dorm essentials, clothing, and school supplies. It is also when summer furniture goes on clearance to make room for holiday stock.
- September and October: The holiday creep begins. You will see the first wave of toys, holiday decor, and winter clothing.
- November and December: The main event. Black Friday and Holiday savings dominate, with the year's lowest prices on electronics, small appliances (like Air Fryers and mixers), and jewelry.
Can I Get a Costco Promo Code for $10 Off?
Yes, $10 off promo codes are fairly common at Costco, but they are almost always tied to a specific promotion. A perfect example is the MOVER code, which gives new homeowners a small discount to help them stock up on essentials. These types of codes are usually for online purchases and may be restricted to certain categories or have a minimum spending requirement. Keep an eye on your email inbox and the Costco homepage for these kinds of targeted offers.
Does Costco Offer a Rewards Program?
Yes, and it is arguably one of the most generous in the retail world. The primary rewards program is tied to the Executive Membership. For the $130 annual fee, Executive members earn an annual 2% reward on most of their qualified Costco and Costco Travel purchases, with a reward cap of $1,250 per year. For many families, this reward check alone can cover the entire cost of the membership and then some.
To take it a step further, members can also apply for the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi. This card essentially lets you double-dip on rewards, offering 2% cash back on Costco purchases on top of your Executive reward. It also provides an incredible 4% cash back on eligible gas worldwide, 3% on restaurants and travel, and 1% on everything else.
How Long Do Costco Discounts Usually Last?
Costco's deal durations vary by type. The most common promotions are the "Member-Only Savings" found in their monthly coupon book, which typically last for about three to four weeks. Limited-time online promo codes, like those for new members or special events, have specific expiration dates and can last anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. Then there are the in-store clearance deals (items with prices ending in .97), which don't have an expiration date at all—they last until the product is gone, and then it's gone for good.
Can I Stack Multiple Promo Codes at Costco?
Generally, the answer is no. Costco's checkout system, both online and in-store, is set up to accept only one promo code or instant savings offer per item. You can't combine a new member offer with another dollar-off promotion. However, the unofficial way to "stack" your savings is by using the Costco Anywhere Visa Card to pay for your purchase. You'll earn cash back rewards on the final sale price of an item, even if it's already discounted, effectively layering your savings.
What Should I Do If My Promo Code Isn't Working?
If you have found a code but are getting an error message at checkout, don't panic just yet. There are a few common reasons why a Costco promo code might be rejected, and most of them are easy to fix. Before you abandon your cart, run through this quick troubleshooting checklist.
- Check for Typos: Promo codes are case-sensitive and unforgiving. Ensure there are no extra spaces before or after the code.
- Verify Eligibility: Many codes, especially "Shop Card" bonuses, are strictly for new members or those whose membership has been expired for more than 18 months.
- Minimum Spend Requirements: Some codes, like "$50 off," require a minimum subtotal (e.g., $500) excluding taxes and shipping.
- Check Expiration Dates: Targeted email codes often have very short windows of validity, sometimes as little as 48 hours.
What Have Costco Deals Looked Like in the Past?
While specific promo codes come and go, Costco's promotional playbook has remained remarkably consistent over the years. Looking back, it's clear they favor high-value incentives over small, frequent discounts. The cornerstone of their strategy has always been the new member offer, which typically rewards those who sign up with auto-renewal with a $20 or $40 Digital Costco Shop Card.
Beyond that, their deals are almost always focused on specific categories. For example, it's common to see substantial dollar-off promotions like "$150 off a set of four Michelin tires" or hundreds of dollars in savings during their "buy more, save more" events on major appliances.
Is There a Costco Online Promo Code for 25% Off?
A sitewide 25% off coupon at Costco is the stuff of legend—and unfortunately, it's just as rare. You're unlikely to ever find a code that takes such a large percentage off your entire cart. Instead, Costco targets its percentage-off deals to specific categories. You might see a promotion for 40% off photo printing services or special savings on select apparel or seasonal items. These types of deals are typically advertised in the monthly savings book or directly on the product pages on Costco.com rather than through a shareable promo code.
What If There's a Problem With My Order?
One of Costco's most beloved perks is its risk-free 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you have an issue with an order, whether it's an online shipment or an in-store purchase, their customer service is top-notch. For online orders, you can manage returns and report issues directly through your account on Costco.com. For in-warehouse purchases, simply bring the item to the returns counter at any location. You often don't even need a receipt, as they can look up your purchase history with your membership card.
What Is Costco's Return Policy?
Costco's satisfaction guarantee which allows members to return almost any item for a full refund if they aren't happy with it—even if it's been used. This policy is so robust that it even covers your membership fee; if you are dissatisfied with the club at any time, they will refund your annual payment. However, while the policy is broad, there are specific exceptions, time limits, and non-returnable categories that savvy shoppers need to know.
- Electronics and Major Appliances: There is a strict 90-day return window for televisions, projectors, computers, tablets, smartwatches, cameras, drones, and major appliances.
- Diamonds: Loose stones or jewelry containing diamonds 1.00 carat or larger must be returned with the original GIA/IGI verification paperwork.
- Non-Returnable Items: Gift cards, cigarettes, alcohol, and often fireworks are considered final sale and cannot be returned.
- Custom Orders: Custom-installed products, optical lenses, and tires are generally not returnable under the standard policy, though they are often covered by specific manufacturer warranties.
- Manager Discretion: While rare, management reserves the right to deny returns in cases of policy abuse, such as attempting to return heavily worn furniture years after purchase.
Can I Shop at Costco Without a Membership?
Costco is a members-only club, but there are a few loopholes that allow non-members to purchase certain items or use specific services. If you aren't ready to commit to the $65 annual fee, you do have a few limited options to get through the door.
- Use a Costco Shop Card: This is the most effective workaround. If a member buys a Costco Shop Card (gift card) for you, you can use it to enter the warehouse and pay for your purchases.
- Shop Online: You can purchase items on Costco.com without a membership, but be aware that a 5% surcharge will be applied to your total.
- Pharmacy and Optical: In many states, laws require that the Costco Pharmacy be open to the general public for prescription medications. Eye exams are also available to non-members, though you need a membership to buy glasses or contacts.
- Buy Alcohol: Similar to the pharmacy, certain state laws allow non-members to purchase alcohol from the Costco liquor store.
Are Costco's Online Prices the Same as In-Store?
Not always. You'll often find that prices on Costco.com are slightly higher than in the warehouse. This is especially true for groceries and smaller items. The price difference helps cover the costs of shipping and handling, which is usually built into the online price rather than added at checkout. For large items like furniture or major appliances, the price usually includes delivery, so it can be a wash. If you have a warehouse nearby, it's almost always cheaper to buy your everyday items in person.
Does Costco Offer Price Adjustments?
Yes, Costco has a very fair price adjustment policy that protects you if a deal drops right after you buy something. If you purchase an item and it goes on sale shortly after, you don't have to suffer from buyer's remorse—you can request a refund for the difference.
- 30-Day Window: You must request the adjustment within 30 days of the original purchase date.
- Costco.com Purchases: For online orders, you must complete a simple "Price Match" form on the Costco website.
- In-Warehouse Purchases: For items bought in the store, you must visit the returns counter at the warehouse.
- No Cross-Matching: Costco warehouses and Costco.com operate separately. They will not match each other's prices, nor will they match competitors like Walmart or Amazon.
Does Costco Have Special Discounts for Students or the Military?
Yes, but these are typically for attracting new members rather than ongoing discounts for existing members. While not an ongoing discount, new Costco members from certain professions and groups (like college students, teachers, military personnel (active duty, veterans, and their families), first responders, medical professionals, or government employees) can often receive a Digital Costco Shop Card when they sign up. You'll just need to verify your status through a third-party platform like SheerID or ID.me to claim your bonus.
Other Ways to Save With Costco This Year
Promo codes are just the tip of the savings iceberg at Costco. The real art of mastering the warehouse club comes from leveraging all the perks and systems built into the membership itself. True savings masters know that your membership card is more than just a key to get in the door—it's a gateway to a whole ecosystem of value. From strategic membership choices and in-house brands to little-known services that can save you thousands, these are the best ways to get the most bang for your buck all year long.
Maximize Your Membership With the "Double Dip" Strategy
If you shop at Costco more than a few times a year, sticking with the basic Gold Star membership might actually be costing you money. The math is simple: if you spend about $271 per month (approx. $3,250 annually), the 2% reward from the Executive Membership covers the extra cost of the upgrade. Any spending beyond that is pure profit.
To truly supercharge this, savvy shoppers pair the Executive Membership with the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi. By using this card, you earn an additional 2% cash back on warehouse purchases, plus 4% on eligible gas. That means an Executive member with this card effectively earns 4% back on every grocery run, turning a standard trip into a significant rebate.
Learn to Read the Secret Price Codes
Costco price tags have a hidden language that can tell you if you're getting a truly great deal. Keep an eye out for these tell-tale signs:
- Prices ending in .97: This is the golden ticket. It means the item is on clearance and has been marked down by the local store manager. This is the lowest price you will find for that product.
- An asterisk (*) in the corner: Known as the "death star," this symbol means the product will not be restocked. If it's an item you love, this is your last chance to buy it.
- Prices ending in .00 or .88: These often signify a manager's markdown on a floor model or a returned item. Inspect it carefully, but you could score a massive discount.
Keeping these codes in your back pocket turns a regular shopping trip into a strategic hunt for the absolute best bargains. This insider knowledge ensures you can spot a final markdown from a mile away and know exactly when to pounce on a deal.
Mastering In-Store Tactics: How to Shop Like a Pro
Navigating the warehouse can be overwhelming, but seasoned deal hunters know that specific strategies can prevent impulse buys and unlock deeper discounts. To keep your budget intact, try these proven tactics:
- Avoid "Action Alley": The main walkways at the front and center of the store are often stocked with impulse buys and "loss leaders" designed to derail your budget. Stick to your list and head to the center aisles for the best deals on staples.
- Split Bulk Purchases: If you live in a smaller household or lack storage space, the idea of 30 rolls of paper towels is daunting. Team up with a friend or neighbor to split these bulk items. You both get the low unit price without the clutter.
- Check Unit Prices: Don't assume everything is a deal just because it is big. Always compare the price per ounce or unit against your local grocery store, especially for perishables like produce that might go bad before you can finish them.
Always Bet on the Kirkland Signature Brand
Costco's private label, Kirkland Signature, is a legend in the retail world for a reason. Unlike generic store brands that sacrifice quality for price, Kirkland products are often produced by top-tier manufacturers—rumors have long linked their coffee to Starbucks and their batteries to Duracell. By opting for the Kirkland label, you are often getting a premium, name-brand quality product without paying for the marketing budget. Whether it's the vodka, the diapers, or the olive oil, choosing Kirkland is almost always the smartest value play in the store.
The "Buy This, Not That" Cheat Sheet
Not every bulk bargain is a winner, and walking into the warehouse without a plan is a surefire way to blow your budget. To truly maximize your membership value, you need to develop a keen eye for which aisles to raid and which to skip completely. Mastering Costco means looking past the massive price tags to determine if the per-ounce cost beats your local supermarket and, more importantly, if you have the shelf space and appetite to make that bulk purchase worth the investment.
The "Always Buy" List (High Value)
- Kirkland Signature Batteries: Made by a top-tier manufacturer (often rumored to be Duracell), these offer premium longevity for a fraction of the name-brand price.
- Rotisserie Chicken: The famous $4.99 loss leader is cheaper than buying a raw bird and perfect for meal prepping.
- Over-the-Counter Allergy Meds: You can often buy a year's supply of generic Zyrtec or Claritin for the price of a one-month supply at a drugstore.
- Gasoline: Costco gas is "Top Tier" certified, meaning it has extra detergents to protect your engine, and it is almost always 20-30 cents cheaper per gallon than nearby stations.
The "Think Twice" List (Potential Waste)
- Giant Containers of Produce: Unless you have a large family or a juicer, that 10-pound bag of oranges or massive tub of spinach often spoils before you can eat it.
- Bulk Spices: Spices lose potency over time. Unless you run a bakery, that 2-pound container of cinnamon will likely go stale before you finish it.
- Canned Goods (if you lack space): While cheap, 12-packs of corn or beans take up valuable real estate. Wait for supermarket sales where you can buy single cans for similar unit prices.
Don't Forget the Legendary Food Court Deals
Sometimes the best savings are also the most delicious. The Costco food court is famous for its incredible value. The $1.50 all-beef hot dog and soda combo has been a staple for decades. And for a quick and easy family dinner, you can't beat the $4.99 three-pound rotisserie chicken, which provides enough meat for several meals.
Buy Discounted Gift Cards
One of the most overlooked savings hacks at Costco is the gift card aisle. Costco sells multi-packs of gift cards for local restaurants, movie theaters, spas, and even streaming services for significantly less than their face value. It's common to find a pack of four $25 gift cards (a $100 value) for just $79.99. It's like getting a free 20% discount on places you already plan to spend money.
Unlock "Hidden" Savings on Services Like Travel and Auto
Your membership savings extend far beyond the warehouse walls. The Costco Services marketplace offers exclusive deals on major life purchases.
- Costco Travel: Book vacation packages, cruises, and rental cars often at a significant discount. A standout perk is that the fee for an additional driver on rental cars is often waived.
- Costco Auto Program: Get low, prearranged pricing on new and used vehicles from participating dealerships, taking the stress and hassle out of negotiation.
- Tire Center: Not only are Costco's tire prices competitive, but they also include a fantastic warranty and free lifetime services like rotation, balancing, and flat repairs.
These membership perks can lead to substantial savings on major expenses, effectively turning your annual fee into a smart investment. The value truly extends beyond the warehouse, covering you on the road and even on your next vacation.
Fill Up Your Tank at the Costco Gas Station
Even if you're just driving by, it's worth stopping to fill up your tank at a Costco Gas station. Their prices are consistently among the lowest in any given area. Plus, their Kirkland Signature gasoline is a "Top Tier" certified fuel, meaning it contains additives that help clean your engine and improve performance. When you pay with the Costco Anywhere Visa Card, you'll earn 4% cash back, making a great deal even better.
Check Prices at the Pharmacy and Optical Center
You can often find significant savings on prescription medications at the Costco Pharmacy—and you don't even need a membership to use it. Members, however, can join the Costco Member Prescription Program for free to unlock even deeper discounts. Likewise, the Costco Optical center is a fantastic place to save on eyeglasses and contact lenses, offering competitive prices on frames and lenses.
Use Costco's Delivery Services Wisely
Costco offers a couple of ways to get your groceries delivered, and knowing the difference can save you money.
- Same-Day Delivery: This service is powered by Instacart and is perfect for fresh groceries. Be aware that prices will be higher than in the warehouse to cover the service and delivery fees.
- 2-Day Delivery: This is for non-perishable food and household supplies. There's no separate delivery fee on orders of $75 or more, making it a cost-effective way to stock your pantry without leaving the house.
By choosing the right delivery option for your needs, you can balance the convenience of online shopping with the cost-effectiveness Costco is known for. It's another way the warehouse club caters to modern shopping habits while still delivering on value.
Find a Costco Promo Code for $50 off $500
While a general-purpose "$50 off $500" code is not a typical Costco promotion, you will often find high-value, dollar-off discounts on big-ticket purchases. These are most common in categories like major appliances, furniture, and tires. For example, Costco frequently runs a "buy more, save more" event on appliances, where purchasing a bundle could save you several hundred dollars, or a promotion that takes $150 off a set of four Michelin tires. These deals are designed to provide significant savings on substantial investments.
Are Costco Discounts Worth Pursuing in 2026?
So, after all is said and done, is a Costco membership really worth the annual fee in 2026? For the right kind of shopper, the answer is a resounding yes. If you have a family to feed, the space to store bulk goods, or are a small business owner, the savings on groceries and essentials alone can easily justify the cost. The consistent, deep value on everything from pantry staples and fresh produce to high-quality apparel and top-tier electronics is undeniable. When you factor in the additional member-exclusive perks—like significant savings on gas, travel, tires, and major appliances—the membership transforms from a simple entry fee into a powerful money-saving tool.
Ultimately, a Costco membership is more than just access to a store; it's an investment in a smarter way to shop. The combination of high-quality Kirkland Signature products, a legendary rewards program, and a treasure-hunt atmosphere makes it a compelling choice for anyone serious about stretching their budget without sacrificing quality. If you're willing to embrace the bulk-buy lifestyle and leverage the many perks available, you'll likely find that the membership pays for itself many times over.
Unlocking the Costco App
If you are still shopping with just your plastic card, you are missing out on digital tools that make saving easier. The Costco mobile app has been significantly updated for 2026 to help you track your savings.
- Digital Membership Card: Never worry about forgetting your card again; you can scan your phone to enter the warehouse and pay.
- Warehouse Inventory: While not perfect, the app allows you to check if specific "Instant Savings" items are in stock at your local warehouse before you drive over.
- Digital Receipts: Need to make a return or check a price adjustment eligibility? All your in-warehouse and online receipts are automatically stored in the app, meaning you don't need to hoard paper slips.
- Gas Prices: You can check the current fuel price at your local warehouse directly in the app, helping you decide if the trip is worth the drive.
How We Find and Verify Warehouse Club Promotions
Our team of deal curators scour every corner of the internet to find the best Costco deals for you, our readers. We don't just post any deal we see; we vet and verify each offer to ensure it provides real value and is from a reputable source. This hands-on approach ensures that you have access to the latest and most valuable savings opportunities without having to do all the legwork yourself.
Why Trust DealNews for Costco Discounts
For years, DealNews has been the go-to source for shoppers looking to save money on just about everything. We bring you hundreds of the best deals every day, covering a massive range of products—from the latest tech gadgets and apparel to vacation packages. And yes, that includes making your Costco membership even more valuable. That expertise is our promise to you: we vet every deal to ensure it's the best price available, putting our readers first, always.
Ready to make these savings a regular part of your routine? Consider signing up for the DealNews Select newsletter. We'll send a curated list of the day's absolute best offers straight to your inbox every weekday. And if you're waiting for a specific item to drop in price, be sure to set a deal alert. We'll notify you the moment it goes on sale, so you never miss out on a chance to save.


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