The Costco Hacks You Didn't Know You Needed: Shop Smart Without a Membership

From secret online loopholes to in-store workarounds, the world of bulk buying is more accessible than ever—even if you don’t have a membership card in your wallet. Whether you’re stocking up for a big family, prepping for the holidays, or simply love a great deal, this guide reveals how to tap into Costco’s warehouse-sized savings without paying the membership fee.

Sound too good to be true? Not with these clever tips in your pocket.

🛒 The Costco Membership Myth (and How to Outsmart It)

Costco has a reputation for low prices, giant packages, and a hefty membership fee. But here’s the truth: you don’t actually need a membership to take advantage of many of its best perks.

Let’s break it down:

Use a Costco Cash Card (Shop Card): If someone you know has a membership, ask them to purchase a Costco Shop Card for you. You can use it to shop in-store or online without needing a membership yourself. It’s like having a Costco passport—without the subscription.

Prescription Perks: Did you know Costco’s pharmacy is open to everyone? No card required. You can access affordable prescriptions and generic medications with the same low prices members enjoy.

Shop Online (with a twist): Select items on Costco.com are available to non-members. You might pay a small surcharge (usually 5%), but for big-ticket items like electronics or furniture, the savings can still be significant.

🧠 What Costco Really Wants You to Know

Costco’s goal isn’t just selling you a bottle of olive oil the size of your head—they want you in the store, walking the aisles, discovering things you didn’t know you needed. That’s where impulse buying works its magic. Which is why they’re surprisingly flexible about who can shop.

Here are a few more insider tactics:

Tag Along with a Member: You can enter the store and shop with a friend or family member who has a card. Only they can pay at checkout, but you can reimburse them—making this a great way to split bulk purchases.

Buy Alcohol Without a Membership: In certain states, it's illegal for warehouse clubs to require a membership to purchase alcohol. That means you can walk in, grab your bottle of Kirkland wine or spirits, and check out like a pro—no card necessary. (Check your state laws first.)

Access Eye and Hearing Exams: Need an eye exam or hearing screening? Many Costco locations offer these services to the general public, membership or not. You’ll still need a card to buy glasses or hearing aids, but the exams themselves are open access.

🔍 The Hidden Goldmine: Costco Price Tag Codes

Think Costco’s just a store? Think again. It’s a coded treasure hunt, and those price tags are the map. Here’s what to look for:

Prices ending in .97 = Clearance markdown

Asterisk (*) on the sign = Item won’t be restocked

Prices ending in .00 or .88 = Manager's special or local markdown

Armed with this knowledge, you’ll start spotting deals that most shoppers completely overlook. It’s like learning a secret language of savings.

💡 Is a Membership Ever Worth It?

If you:

Shop in bulk frequently

Live close to a Costco

Love the $1.50 hot dog and soda combo

Want access to member-only gas prices and travel deals

…then yes, a membership might pay for itself over time. Especially if you’re feeding a big family, running a small business, or throwing large gatherings.

But if you’re a casual shopper, you can still access many perks without committing. Whether you’re grabbing discounted prescriptions, hopping in with a friend, or hunting for clearance deals using price tag codes, there’s plenty to gain without the yearly fee.