3 Ways to Shop at Costco Without Paying an Annual Membership Fee

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Everyday living expenses add up fast, so many shoppers invest in warehouse club memberships to get the best deals. Costco is one popular warehouse club that offers big savings.

Most shoppers pay for an annual membership because they shop there often and make good use of their investment. But a membership isn't a must. Did you know it's possible to shop at Costco without paying to be a member? I'll explain a few ways you can do that.

1. Do your shopping at Costco.com

Costco has more than 800 clubs worldwide. However, the retailer also has a website where members and non-members can shop. You can buy many of the items that are sold in-club at Costco.com. But you must be a Costco member to get the best deals.

However, if you're willing to pay a 5% surcharge on your order, you can shop without paying a yearly membership fee. For smaller orders, this additional fee won't make a significant impact. For example, you'll pay $4 on an $80 purchase. But if you're placing a big order, it can add up.

If you're turned off by the additional non-member fee, Costco offers shoppers the option to become members before checking out. If they do this, the 5% surcharge is removed.

2. Place a Costco order through Instacart

Here's another way to shop at Costco without a membership: You can order from Costco through Instacart and have your items delivered to your home. While you don't need a membership to do this, you'll pay higher prices than members who shop in-club.

This could be a good solution if you only shop at Costco occasionally. Ordering through Instacart could be a good way to try some Costco products before investing in a membership.

3. Shop with a friend who has a membership

If you have a family member or close friend with a Costco membership card in their wallet, ask them if you can join them on their next trip to your local club. Costco allows members to bring children and two adult guests into the club when they shop.

Only members can pay for purchases at checkout, but you could have a friend pay for your purchase and then pay them back later. As a thank you, you may want to buy your pal a $1.50 hot dog and soda combo at the food court. Nothing says thanks like a Costco hot dog.

Is a Costco membership worth it?

For many shoppers, the savings they receive by having a Costco membership is worth the annual fee. But you should consider your shopping habits and needs before joining.

If you're unsure what products and services Costco offers, you can browse the retailer's website or mobile app to learn more about what's available. You may want to join if you'll use the membership benefits, have a Costco near your home or work, and can afford the annual membership fee. You should always review your finances before paying for a new membership.

Costco memberships currently cost $60 or $120 a year. However, membership fees will rise on Sept. 1, 2024. At that time, memberships will cost $65 or $130 annually. You can save a few bucks if you join before September.

Earn rewards when you shop

In addition to getting great deals when shopping at Costco, you can earn rewards. Our No. 1 tip to save money at Costco is to pay for your purchases using a credit card that earns rewards. You can earn cash back or other valuable rewards every time you shop. Review our list of the best credit cards for Costco to learn more about the top features of each card.

We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team. Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .