Costco recently announced that membership fees would increase starting in September, the first time in seven years that the wholesale giant has hiked prices. The news was met with divided reactions between those who were apathetic and those who were outraged.
The increase is $5 or $10, depending on the membership tier; however, some clever customers have found a way around that fee — at least for one more year.
Renewing your membership before Sept. 1 will add 12 months to your membership at the same rate you are currently paying. One catch: You can only renew within 90 days of the expiration, so members scheduled to renew after late November will be stuck paying the higher fee.
If you're going to keep being a Costco member, check to see if you're getting the most out of your membership and maximizing how much money you can save . Next time you head out to the warehouse, take advantage of these clever ways to maximize your membership.
Costco Secrets: 7 genius hacks all Costco shoppers should know
1. Save on prescriptions
Costco has an excellent prescription drug program for its members. It allows them to get great medication prices at Costco and thousands of network pharmacies.
You also get other perks, such as medication delivery by mail and automatic refills. These benefits are some of the many smart shopping hacks at the warehouse retailer.
Costco can also save you money on pet prescriptions, so don’t forget to look for deals on medication for your furry friends.
Own a car? Here’s 6 smart strategies to save money on car insurance. 2. Save on travel
If you are planning a special trip, check out Costco Travel. Your Costco membership allows you to book hotel rooms, flights, and rental cars at a discount.
Using the retailer’s travel site can also earn you other perks, such as meal credits and 2% back on travel purchases if you're an Executive member.
3. Have a pizza waiting for you
A popular Costco hack is its well-known food court. For example, a Costco constant is the hot-dog-and-a-drink deal, which costs only $1.50.
Next time you're at Costco and your house needs dinner, swing by the food court before you start shopping to put in an order for a Costco pizza. By the time you check out, the pizza will be hot and waiting for you.
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4. Get discounted gift cards
Gift cards can be great presents in a pinch, so check out the options at Costco. You can often pick up gift cards that are worth more than their price.
These discounted gift cards are also a great option if you're retired and living on a fixed income, or are simply trying to save money at any age.
5. Save on gas
Gas prices are high right now, but Costco offers a great way to save on fuel.
The Costco gas station typically offers fuel that is a little cheaper per gallon than what you pay at other local gas stations. Over the course of a year, those savings can really add up.
6. Extend your warranties
Costco has some great deals on electronics, and the retailer adds up to two years of extended warranties to your new purchases.
Costco’s extended warranties cover items such as televisions, computers, major appliances, and more. So check with the retailer to see what kind of coverage you can get.
Costco Insider's Guide: 12 little clever ways to get more out of your Costco membership 7. Save on eyeglasses
Do you wear glasses or contacts? You may be able to get a good deal on new eyewear through Costco. The retailer carries contacts and frames through Costco Optical.
Some Costco locations may also have doctors on site for vision screenings. Check out your local Costco for details.
8. Save on types of insurance
Costco may be a good option if you’re worried about rising costs for your homeowners or car insurance.
The warehouse retailer could get you a better price on these types of insurance coverage. Costco’s Executive members can also get additional benefits, such as roadside and home lockout assistance.
9. Get your next car with Costco
It can be frustrating to go to a dealership and haggle for the best price on a car. So talk to Costco instead and make your membership work for you.
The Costco Auto Program allows you to get the car you want from a local dealer without negotiating a price. Instead, check in with Costco and let the retailer lock in a price for you. Then, buy your car with less hassle.
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You could spend a huge chunk of money buying a cake for your next event or celebration. Or you can pick up a cake from Costco.
The warehouse retailer has plenty of sheet cakes to choose from, and you might be able to get one decorated to your specifications for less than what you would pay at a typical bakery.
11. Stock up your bar
Costco sells many products under its Kirkland Signature brand, including alcohol. The retailer also carries exclusive wines.
Costco’s wine and spirits have a reputation for being just as good as the name-brand versions of these drinks, and you may pay less for the Kirkland Signature versions.
12. Take advantage of the return policy
If you buy an item that you end up not liking, Costco still has you covered.
The retailer’s generous return policy allows you to return most items — even without a receipt — for a refund.
The retailer allows you to try new things without worrying about not liking them.
Costco Secrets: 7 genius hacks Costco shoppers should know Bottom line
Costco is a great place to save money, especially if you know some of the best Costco hacks (including, but not limited to, those on this list).
Taking advantage of Costco perks is a fantastic way to get the items you need while sticking to your budget.
You might even find that your budget is in a better position by the end of the year if you take better advantage of perks like these.
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