Shopping at Costco can be a great way to save money on bulk items and everyday essentials. You might find yourself tempted to grab just about everything in large quantities, but not all purchases offer the best value or suit every household.
Knowing which items to avoid can help you save money and reduce waste. This article highlights six things you should stop buying at Costco to make your shopping smarter and more efficient.
Gasoline
You might think buying gas at Costco is a great way to save money. While their prices are often lower, the long lines can be frustrating, especially during busy hours.
Waiting too long can cost you more in time than you save on fuel. If convenience matters to you, consider if the wait is worth it.
Also, some locations may not offer premium fuel options you prefer. Keep this in mind when deciding where to fill up.
Milk
Buying milk at Costco might seem convenient because of the large quantities, but it’s often more expensive per gallon than at other stores. If you live alone or have a small household, chances are you won’t finish it before it spoils.
Milk is perishable, and wasting any of it means your savings vanish quickly. If you need smaller amounts or want more variety, your local grocery store will likely offer better prices and fresher stock.
Stick to buying milk in amounts you can use before expiration to avoid waste and save money. Costco’s bulk size isn’t always the practical choice for everyone.
Rotisserie Chicken
Costco’s rotisserie chickens are tempting because they’re affordable and ready to eat. At just under $5, they seem like a great deal when you need a quick meal.
However, you might want to think twice before grabbing one every time. There are concerns about quality, ingredients, and the packaging used to keep them warm.
If you’re looking for healthier or more transparent options, consider buying fresh chicken from local or organic sources instead. This way, you know exactly what you’re eating and where it comes from.
Breakfast Cereals
If you’re buying breakfast cereal at Costco, keep in mind the savings might not be as big as you expect. Large bulk boxes can sometimes cost about the same per serving as smaller packs from other stores.
You might also struggle to finish those giant bags before the cereal loses its freshness. Unless your household consumes cereal quickly, it could end up going stale or wasted.
Costco tends to carry limited cereal brands and fewer fun, sugary options. If you’re after variety or specialty cereals, you may find better choices elsewhere.
Boxed Cookies
When you pick up boxed cookies at Costco, they might seem like a good deal. But many contain high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, and unhealthy oils that don’t make them the best snack choice.
You might also end up with more than you can eat before they go stale. This can lead to waste, even if you like the taste. Consider buying smaller packages or fresh baked goods for a better experience.
Perishable Produce
When it comes to perishable produce, buying in bulk at Costco can quickly backfire. Items like berries, lettuce, and avocados spoil fast, so unless you have a plan to use them right away, you might end up wasting food.
Smaller quantities from your local store can be a better option. This helps you avoid throwing away spoiled produce and keeps your fridge fresh.
If you do buy large amounts, freeze or prep items as soon as possible to extend their shelf life. Otherwise, sticking to less perishable fruits and vegetables is smarter.
