If you are lucky enough to live close to a Costco (there are four in Collin County!), then you absolutely must get a membership and reap the benefits. Is Costco worth it? YES. The $60 annual membership fee breaks down to just $5 a month, and with all Costco has to offer, you will certainly get your money’s worth.
What I Love About Costco
Ample room between parking spaces
This might seem silly, but anyone with car seats knows just how important any extra room for car doors is! I guess I can’t speak for every Costco location, but all the ones I’ve been to have had incredible parking lots.
Tire shop
You should plan ahead unless you want to spend all day waiting on tires, but the prices, selection, and service for Costco tires cannot be beat.
Their app/online shopping ability
Did you know you can shop Costco online? You can even schedule a time for delivery for most items. Being able to buy diapers on the app while in the preschool pickup line because I knew I wouldn’t be able to get to a store that week was EVERYTHING.
Optical shop/pharmacy
I have not personally used these two options at Costco, but it is so convenient that they’re available.
Travel perks (rental cars, cruises, hotels, etc.)
That’s right, you can book your next vacation, all via Costco. Like the optical shop and pharmacy, the travel department is another perk that often gets overlooked.
Gas
The lines for gas can get completely out of control sometimes, but as usual, the prices are incredible.
Photo department
I’m kicking myself for not utilizing this service for my recent holiday cards! You can also print photo books, calendars, regular prints, yard signs, banners, etc.
The people
Costco employees are truly something. Everyone is super nice, helpful, and knowledgeable. Plus, they hand out the free samples!
My Top Costco Buys
Diapers
Like most moms, I tried several brands of diapers before discovering the Kirkland brand at Costco. They are the only ones I’ve found that *do*not*leak* overnight. I don’t even have to size up! They are also in the running for the most affordable diapers I’ve found.
Baby wipes
Like diapers, I’ve also tried several different wipes. These are super affordable, fragrance-free, pull easily of a wipes container, and are big enough to, ahem, get the job done.
Formula
My son was on a particular type of formula, so I was never able to try the Costco brand. BUT Costco also carries several popular brands and types, and buying formula in bulk makes total sense.
Paper goods
You go through paper towels, napkins, and toilet paper super quickly with young kids in the house, so buying these items in bulk and at a great price is a life saver.
Alcohol
Throwing a party or event? Your go-to spot for beer and wine should be Costco! Now clearly that doesn’t happen every week, but their variety and pricing is too good.
Yogurt and applesauce pouches
My toddler goes through what feels like a thousand of these a week. We are fans of the Stonyfield Organic Yogurt and the GoGo squeeZ Organic Applesauce.
Frozen breakfast items
If you have the freezer space, I suggest stocking up on things like Eggo waffles, Veggies Made Great Blueberry Oat Muffins (a fave at my house), and breakfast sandwiches. Getting out the door as painlessly as possible on school days is a top priority!
Clothes, toys, books
Browsing these three sections (usually in the middle of the store) is one of my very favorite things to do! The kids’ clothing items are especially great, and don’t sleep on the women’s selection.
Bakery
Their sheet cakes are delicious, and the cookies seem like they’re homemade. Pro tip: Grab a box of the croissants if you have a sleepover or host anyone for brunch.
Cilantro lime shrimp
This might seem overly specific, but this marinated shrimp (found in the pre-made section by the butcher) is TO DIE FOR. All you have to do is put out some toothpicks, and it’s the easiest and most delicious appetizer ever.
Chicken salad
It’s enough for an army, but the chicken salad is also top-notch. Use those croissants you bought earlier to have sandwiches for the week!
Non-perishable snacks
Their peanut butter pretzels should be illegal. There are always fantastic deals on things like Nutri-Grain bars, CLIF bars, belVita snacks, and more. If these are things you pack in your kids’ lunches or like to have on hand for easy snacking, grab as many boxes as will fit in your cart.
This is truly just scratching the surface of all the great services and products a Costco membership offers. Be sure to leave a comment with what I’m missing from my lists.
Read more Costco tips HERE!
The optical department is the besttttt. The Dr. at ours is fabulous and the prices and quality of the glasses just cannot be beat.
Excited to try some of these things!
They don’t always have them, but the cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting (in the bakery section) are super good. Great for sleepovers! Incredible value and a huge platter (of course). You can freeze half for another time.
The employees are no longer friendly or helpful sadly.