Science & Tech
Big Box Store Experts Reveal Insider Tips for Scoring Hidden Deals and Seasonal Gems
Clear Facts
- Costco offers significant savings on a wide variety of items, from household essentials to big-ticket products.
- Seasonal aisles and Manager’s Specials are prime areas to find hidden gems and exceptional deals.
- Different Costco locations may carry unique items, making it worthwhile to explore multiple warehouses.
Having a Costco membership is a gateway to substantial savings on a broad range of products. Whether you’re stocking up on groceries, household essentials, or even larger items like furniture and electronics, Costco provides competitively discounted prices.
However, navigating the packed aisles filled with bulk items can be daunting. With so many products available, it’s easy to overlook some of the best deals. Shopping experts have shared some tricks to help you spot hidden gems throughout the store.
The holiday season brings an array of unique items. Allie Echeverria, MS, RD, LD, a modern-day home economics expert, advises checking out the seasonal aisles as soon as they are updated.
“I check seasonal aisles when they are first updated,” she says.
“It’s barely September but my local Costco has Christmas decorations. You best bet I’ve already looked through them to see if I want new items.”
Alexander Ketter, Lead Consumer Expert, also emphasizes the importance of these aisles.
“Costco is known for changing up its seasonal aisles, and this is where you’ll often find some of the best-hidden gems. Whether it’s for Christmas, summer, or even the back-to-school season, these aisles are regularly updated with unique and limited-time offers.”
Timing is crucial for snagging the best deals. Kristen Markel, a Costco superfan and voice behind Warehouse Wanderer, highlights the benefits of shopping early.
“Many members overlook one of the biggest money-saving opportunities at Costco: the Manager’s Special,” she explains.
“Local managers can lower prices on specific items to move them quickly, often marking them down significantly below the regular cost.”
Markel suggests arriving when Costco opens and starting your search in the appliance and furniture sections.
“Look for handwritten price tags; that’s your sign of a great deal. Act fast, though—supplies are always limited.”
Exploring different Costco locations can also yield unique finds. Markel shares her recent discovery.
“I recently found sushi at a local Costco—something I’ve never seen before!”
While staples like toilet paper and rotisserie chicken are consistent across stores, other products can vary significantly.
Don’t overlook the pharmacy area for additional savings. Ketter points out that the surrounding area often has great deals.
“From vitamins and supplements to top-quality protein powders, Costco frequently stocks premium items at a fraction of the cost you would pay elsewhere. You might even find specialized products like essential oils, massage tools, or even yoga gear, which aren’t heavily promoted.”
By following these expert tips, you can make the most of your Costco membership and uncover hidden gems in every aisle.
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