12 Budget-Friendly Costco Staples To Add to Your Shopping List

Are you getting everything you can from your Costco membership?

Sure, items like toilet paper and that famous rotisserie chicken are easy buys whenever you’re at the warehouse retailer. And, of course, there are plenty of bulk food items that can help you save more on everyday essentials .

However, there are likely other great items you are overlooking. So the next time you walk into your Costco, consider adding these items to your cart.

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1. Steaks

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Red meat can be expensive, but savvy Costco shoppers know the big retailer has some great prices on steaks.

Check out the different options at your local Costco. These meats can be a good deal compared to what you would pay at your local grocery store or butcher for a similar cut.

2. Electric toothbrush heads

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Electric toothbrush heads cost more than what you would pay for a manual toothbrush. But you can save some money on toothbrush heads if you buy them from Costco.

The warehouse retailer carries several electric toothbrush brands, so check and see if they have the option that you need.

3. Alcohol

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The cost of wine and liquor can add up, especially if you’re stocking a bar or wine rack, or throwing a party.

Costco’s wine, beer, and liquor selection has a little bit of something for everyone at affordable prices.

Pro tip: A great way to save at Costco is to buy items from its Kirkland Signature in-store brand. The quality typically is great, and you can save compared to purchasing name brands.

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4. Tires

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Replacing your tires can be expensive, but your Costco membership helps you cut this cost.

The retailer includes rotation and balancing when it installs tires through Costco’s Tire Center. You also get a warranty that covers mileage, road issues, and manufacturer defects.

5. Paper goods

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Everybody needs toilet paper and other paper goods, so keep an eye out for those items the next time you go to Costco.

Even if you don’t need more of them at this very moment, they’re good products to keep in stock so you’re not scrambling someday to find a paper towel when something spills in the kitchen.

6. Trash bags

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Sure, you might stock up on paper towels and toilet paper, but what about a household staple such as trash bags?

Buying them in bulk at Costco saves you money as well as time, since you won’t have to constantly run to the store to buy replacements for the home, office, or any other place you need them.

7. Oatmeal

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Oatmeal can be a filling and healthy breakfast item, and Costco has different options for you to choose from.

Grab bulk-size bags of oatmeal for breakfast or even to add to recipes. You can also grab variety packs that include individual portions in different flavors.

8. Gas

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Check if your local Costco has a gas station that can help you save cash the next time you fill up your vehicle. The warehouse retailer’s gas stations often charge a little less than other stations in the area.

9. Glasses

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Costco’s eye care centers can help you save on vision correction, including frames, lenses, and contact lenses. Find your local Costco Optical to see what types of deals the retailer can give you.

You could find out if your local Costco does vision screenings, which might help you save cash when you’re ready to update your prescription.

10. Gift cards

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Check out Costco’s selection of gift cards and see if they can save you some cash.

You can buy some gift cards at Costco for less than the actual face value of the cards. For example, you can purchase $60 worth of Krispy Kreme cards for only $45.99.

11. Coffee

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Coffee is another item where it’s easy to run out and not realize the fact until it’s too late. But Costco has you covered.

The retailer has plenty of options for coffee ranging from single-serving cups to ground coffee for a pot. See if your local Costco has a coffee grinder so you can buy whole-bean coffee and grind it in the store before you leave.

12. Flowers

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Sure, you don’t need flowers. But it’s nice to pick up a bouquet or two to brighten your home or office space, especially during dreary winter months.

Costco has a good selection of bouquets at different price points. You can also pick up roses and other flowers for Valentine’s Day at your local Costco. You might even get them at a bargain compared to what you would pay other florists in your area.

Bottom line

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Before you go to Costco, check your wallet to make sure you have one of the best credit cards for Costco shoppers . Using this card can help you earn cash back and other perks.

Also, remember to try new items that you haven’t purchased in the past. If you don’t like the item, Costco has a great return policy that lets you take most items back to the store if you’re not satisfied.

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