Yahoo Autos 20 Ways To Pay Less at Costco
Shopping at Costco can be a great way to save money, but you might not be maximizing your savings. Imagine how much extra cash could be in your wallet if you optimized your buying strategy. With a little extra effort, you can fine-tune the way you shop at the bulk retailer and find unique Costco deals.
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Learn 20 ways to pay less at Costco.
Split Bulk Items With a Friend
If you're single or live in a small space, it's probably hard to justify purchasing and storing a package of 30 rolls of toilet paper -- even if it is only $19.99. However, that item can be seriously expensive at regular market or big-box stores.
You can save money at Costco with a friend by splitting up bulk packages of essentials and even non-essentials, like snacks. If you split a $16.99, 42-pack of Chex Mix with three friends, for example, you'll only pay $5.66.
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Know the Secret Costco Price Codes
Costco's pricing codes indicate whether an item is specially priced, discounted or will not be restocked. Here is a general breakdown of the codes, according to ToughNickel:
Prices that end in $0.97 have been marked down from their original rates, which usually end in $0.99.
Other odd pricing, like $0.49, $0.79 or $0.89, typically means the product is regular-priced merchandise.
An asterisk (*) in the upper-right corner of the pricing sign means the item won't be restocked. So, if it's a favorite, you should stock up.
Prices ending in $0.88 or $0.00 typically indicate a manager markdown on returned merchandise still in good condition.
Look for Costco Coupons
You can find a number of Costco coupons and discounts for various items in Costco's coupon book. You no longer need the coupon present when purchasing items from the coupon book.
Search Third-Party Deal Sites
It also doesn't hurt to search the best online coupon sites before heading out to your nearest Costco. Scour sites like Coupons.com, Slickdeals and RetailMeNot for online Costco coupons, printable coupons, coupon codes, the latest deals and other savings opportunities.
Shop Summer Closeouts
Like many retailers, Costco tends to mark down large summer items like patio furniture and pool toys before the season is over because stores need to free up room for the next season's merchandise. You might get great deals on merchandise like barbecues, beach chairs and camping equipment that can be used right away. End-of-season deals can also be found year-round, however, including after Christmas.
Make a List -- and Stick to It
This isn't really top-secret information, but running into Costco for "just a few things" can easily turn into a multi-cart shopping extravaganza. Save money at Costco by practicing a little discipline and doing your research.
"I routinely save $100 or more each visit when I shop at Costco," said Thomas Miller of Keller Williams Capital Properties. "I attribute my ability to do this because I am very selective on what I purchase, making sure to only purchase the items that I know offer the most savings." Make a list to keep your spending under control and on track.
Put on Your Blinders
When you walk into Costco, you usually see a path lined with shiny new things looking to find a forever home with you. If you really want to save at Costco, put your head down and stick to your list.
Start at the Back
Here's an interesting tip to save money at Costco: the best bargains at Costco might actually be located at the back of the store, according to Lifehacker. Start your shopping trip by hitting the back of the warehouse and the ends of aisles. Then, work your way up to the front.
Shop Costco Online
Going to Costco doesn't top everyone's list of favorite things to do. Skip the crowds and avoid the hassle by shopping the Costco website -- you can even find online-only Costco deals that aren't offered in the stores. The big-box retailer also now delivers right to your front door.
