Costco is known for offering great prices on bulk items, but savvy shoppers can save even more by knowing when and how to shop.
Here's a simple guide to help you get the biggest discounts.
Shop Early in the Day
The best time to find markdowns is right when the store opens. Costco often updates prices and clearance items overnight or before opening. If you arrive early, you'll have the best chance of finding deals before they sell out.
Learn to Read the Price Tags
Costco price tags contain hidden clues that can help you spot deals:
- Prices ending in .97 usually mean the item is on clearance or has been marked down by the store.
- An asterisk (*) on the tag often means the item won't be restocked once it's gone.
These signs can help you identify products that are almost sold out or won't return to shelves.
Shop at the End of Each Season
Costco offers some of its best discounts when making room for new seasonal products. Here are the best times to look for deals:
- Late summer: Great for finding discounts on pool toys, outdoor furniture, grills, and summer home goods.
- After major holidays: Items like decorations, gift sets, and seasonal foods are often marked down after Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.
- January: Post-holiday clearance sales can bring big savings on various items.
Use the Monthly Savings Booklet
Costco releases a monthly savings booklet with special discounts for members. You can find it:
- In-store
- On Costco.com
- Through the Costco app
The best part? You don't need to clip coupons. The discounts are automatically applied at checkout during the sale period.
Keep in Mind: Deals Vary by Location
Not all Costco stores have the same markdowns. Each warehouse manages its own inventory, so one store might have a deal that another doesn't.
Online prices can also differ from in-store prices, especially for large items and appliances.
The Bottom Line
To get the best deals at Costco:
- Arrive early to catch fresh markdowns
- Watch for .97 prices and asterisks on tags
- Shop during seasonal transitions and after holidays
- Check the monthly savings booklet before you go
Think of Costco as a store where deals come and go quickly. The best discounts won't last long, so act fast when you spot a good price.
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