If you’ve ever heard someone rave about Costco but didn’t quite get the hype, or if you’re thinking of joining and don’t know what to expect, this guide is for you. Costco has become one of the most popular wholesale retailers in the world — and in 2025, it’s more convenient and savings-focused than ever.
Here’s everything you need to know about Costco, including how it works, what you can buy, how to save money, and tips for making the most of your membership.
What is Costco?
Costco is a members-only warehouse that sells items in bulk at lower prices. You’ll find groceries, clothing, appliances, electronics, furniture, and even vacation packages all under one roof. Most products are sold in larger quantities than regular stores, but that’s part of how Costco keeps prices so low.
Unlike traditional stores, Costco isn’t just about shopping – it’s about value, efficiency, and preparing ahead. Instead of buying what you need week by week, many shoppers use Costco to stock up on essentials for the month.
Costco Membership: How It Works
To shop at Costco, you must have a paid membership. The two primary choices for 2025 are as follows:
Basic Membership – $60 per year
- Access to all Costco warehouses and the online store.
- Great for individuals, couples, or small families.
Executive Membership – $120 per year
- Includes all Basic benefits.
- Earns 2% cashback annually on eligible purchases (up to $1,000).
- Includes extra savings on Costco services like travel, auto, and insurance.
Example: If you spend $300 a month at Costco, you’ll get about $72 back a year — more than covering the $60 price difference between the two plans.
What Can You Buy at Costco?
Costco sells much more than food. Here’s a breakdown of the major categories and what you’ll commonly find in each.
Groceries
- Fresh produce, meat, seafood, and bakery items
- Frozen meals and snacks
- Pantry staples like rice, cereal, and canned goods
- Organic and specialty diet options
Electronics
- TVs, laptops, smartphones, headphones
- Smart home gadgets and kitchen appliances
- Warranties and tech support included on many items
Furniture and Home Goods
- Sofas, mattresses, desks, and bookshelves
- Small appliances like air fryers, mixers, and coffee machines
- Seasonal decor and patio furniture
Clothing
- Name-brand jeans, hoodies, socks, and shoes
- Basics for adults and children, often at better prices than department stores
Pharmacy and Health
- Over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs
- Eyeglasses, hearing aids, and health screenings
- Affordable vitamins and supplements
Costco Services
- Travel booking (flights, hotels, car rentals)
- Auto services (tires, insurance)
- Printing and photo services
Tip: The Kirkland Signature brand, which is Costco’s in-house label, is known for offering excellent quality at lower prices. Many Kirkland items are produced by the same manufacturers behind premium brands.
Is Buying in Bulk Worth It?
Purchasing in bulk can result in cost savings if you use what you buy. Here are some smart bulk buys versus things to stay away from.
Smart Buys:
- Paper towels and toilet paper
- Laundry detergent
- Meat and frozen items (you can portion and freeze)
- Cereal, snacks, and juice boxes for large families
Not Ideal for Everyone:
- Fresh produce if you frequently eat out or live alone
- Products with short expiration dates
- Novelty gadgets or seasonal items you won’t use regularly
Real-world tip: Partner with a friend or family member and split bulk items if you don’t need the full quantity. That way, you both save without wasting.
What to Expect During Your First Visit
The first trip to Costco can feel overwhelming due to the store size and the volume of products. Here’s what helps:
- Bring your membership card (or use the Costco app if you’re going digital)
- Have a shopping list ready so you stay focused
- Use a cart — even if you’re only buying a few things
- It is common procedure to provide your receipt at the exit.
There are also food courts and gas stations at several locations. Costco gas is usually much cheaper than local stations, and food court items like pizza, hot dogs, or smoothies are very affordable.
Best Shopping Tips for Costco in 2025
Go Midweek, Early in the Day
Avoid weekends and evenings. The best time to shop is Tuesday through Thursday before noon — shelves are full and crowds are smaller.
Learn to Read the Price Tags
- Prices that finish in.97 indicate a manager’s special or clearance.
- A star (*) on the top right of the price tag means the item won’t be restocked
- Occasionally, prices ending in.00 or.88 signify final markdowns.
Know the Return Policy
One of the greatest return policies in retail is offered by Costco. Most things can be returned with or without a receipt. Electronics have a 90-day return window, and some exceptions apply (like alcohol or custom items).
Does Costco Offer Online Shopping?
Yes, you can shop online at Costco.com. Not all items are available online, and some may include a delivery surcharge. However, the site does offer:
- Appliances and electronics with scheduled delivery
- Non-perishable food and household products
- Prescription refills and eye care
- Membership renewals and account management
Same-day grocery delivery is available in many areas through third-party partners, which is especially convenient for busy households.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I shop without a membership?
Not usually, but there are a few exceptions:
- Even if you are not a member, you can still use a Costco gift card (also known as a Costco Cash Card).
- The pharmacy and optical department are open to non-members in many states.
- You can accompany a friend or family member who has a card.
Can two people share one membership?
Yes. Each membership includes one free household card for someone over 18 living at the same address.
Does Costco accept all credit cards?
Costco accepts Visa credit cards only in-store. They also accept most debit cards, cash, checks, and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
What is Kirkland Signature?
It’s Costco’s private-label brand. Many Kirkland products are made by the same factories that produce well-known brands, but sold for less. Examples include diapers (allegedly made by Huggies), coffee (typically roasted by Starbucks), and batteries (made by Duracell).
Is Costco better than traditional grocery stores?
For many items — yes. Prices per unit are often cheaper, and the quality is generally high. But you need to buy in larger quantities, so it works best for families, shared households, or those who plan meals in advance.
Can I cancel my membership anytime?
Yes. Costco offers a full refund on your membership fee at any time if you’re not satisfied — no questions asked.
Final Thoughts
Costco in 2025 offers something for nearly everyone — great prices, quality products, and a shopping experience built for value-conscious customers. Whether you’re buying groceries for your family, stocking up on essentials, or planning a vacation, Costco can help you save time and money.
If you’re just getting started, take it slow. Start with a few basics, explore the store layout, and try some Kirkland products. With just a few visits, you’ll understand why so many people say they’ll never go back to traditional shopping.
