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When most people think of Costco, they probably picture bulk paper towels, giant tubs of peanut butter, or the food court's iconic hot dog and soda combo meal that sells for just $1.50. But while there's no doubt that buying in bulk can save you some serious cash, there is so much more value packed into your membership than simply warehouse deals.
From unexpected discounts on travel and entertainment to services that make everyday life easier (and cheaper), Costco offers a shocking number of extra perks that often go unnoticed by even its most loyal shoppers. So, if you're already paying the annual membership fee, why not squeeze every bit of value out of it?
Here are 8 lesser-known Costco benefits you may be missing out on!
Engin Akyurt / PEXELS
1. Discounted Gas
If you're not filling up at Costco gas stations every time you go shopping, you're leaving money on the table.
Many Costco locations actually include gas stations that sell Kirkland Signature Gasoline, a high-quality fuel at a below-average cost. Of course, prices vary by location, but it's not uncommon to save anywhere from $0.10 to $0.30 per gallon compared to other gas stations. This might seem like a small difference, but the savings will add up fast, especially if you commute to work or find yourself on the road often!
Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS
2. Prescription Discounts
Even if you've never used Costco's in-store pharmacy, your membership will still open the door for significant savings on prescription medications. Through the Costco Membership Prescription Program (CMPP), members can access discounts of up to 80% at participating pharmacies across the country, not just Costco.
In fact, major retailers like Walgreens, Safeway, Wegmans, Kroger, and Vons honor the program, which is especially helpful if you don't have insurance or are comparison shopping for better prices. The best part? It's free to use with your Costco membership, and you can browse medication prices and pickup locations right on Costco's website.
Christina Morillo / PEXELS
3. Free Tech Support
Have you bought a new TV, laptop, or other appliance at Costco? If so, you can get free technical support via Costco Concierge, a member-exclusive perk that lasts throughout the lifetime of most devices purchased!
Instead of struggling to set up or fix your newest buy, you can just call Costco's tech support team for assistance. Whether you need help troubleshooting an issue or just figuring out how to get your appliance started, you'll be connected with a trained agent. All you'll need to have on hand is your product information, receipt information, and membership number.
Pavel Danilyuk / PEXELS
4. Movie Discounts
If you love hitting the movies but hate how high ticket prices have soared, you're not alone, and Costco has your back. You may not know that the warehouse club offers discounted movie ticket bundles and gift cards for popular chains, such as AMC, Regal, and Cinemark.
Some of these deals can cut up to 25% off the regular cost, and many include bonus gift cards for concessions or other upgrades. For instance, you might find a $40 AMC bundle that comes with two tickets, plus a $20 gift card to use at the theater. What a steal!
Not to mention, these offers are actually available online and sent digitally. So, you can grab them at the last minute when you decide it's time for a good old-fashioned movie night.
Tarik Nachat / PEXELS
5. Travel Savings
If you're planning your summer vacation right now, skip the usual travel site suspects and head over to Costco Travel. Members can access exclusive vacation packages, hotel deals, flights, cruises, and rental cars.
Costco is able to offer lower rates because it uses its buying power to negotiate deals with third-party companies. And whether you want to bring your family to Disney or finally take a girls' trip to Europe, you can even bundle your travel expenses for additional savings.
Vishnu R Nair / PEXELS
6. Concert + Sports Ticket Discounts
If you love going to concerts or watching your favorite sports teams play, you have to take advantage of the discounted tickets that Costco offers. You can score stubs to concerts, festivals, sports games, and other live shows, such as events like Cirque du Soleil, MLB games, and NASCAR races.
The process couldn't be simpler, either. Just buy a digital voucher through Costco, then redeem it on the ticket seller's website to get your actual tickets. It's much more affordable than buying them directly from the venue, and some offers even include extras like food or merchandise credits.
Hassan Ouajbir / PEXELS
7. Lower Car Prices
Believe it or not, Costco can help you save on your next car, too. The Costco Auto Program connects members with pre-negotiated prices on new and pre-owned vehicles at participating dealers. So, instead of dealing with salespeople, you can get a guaranteed price up front and potentially stack on additional manufacturer rebates and incentives.
Moreover, the program includes discounts on parts, repairs, and accessories, valued at up to 15% off at participating service centers. It's a smart way to keep your wallet happy, regardless of whether you're in the market for a new car or just trying to maintain your current one.
Ella Olsson / PEXELS
8. Discounted Restaurant Gift Cards
Last but not least, Costco's gift card section is truly a hidden gem if you love to eat out often (or enjoy giving gift cards as presents).
That's because the warehouse giant regularly offers restaurant gift cards at a discount, helping you stretch your dining budget much further. For example, you might see two $50 gift cards, valued at $100, selling for only $79.99. Or, a four-pack of $25, also valued at $100, may be priced at just under $75.
There's a good chance that at least one of your go-to chains is included in these discounts, so before you plan your next date night, make sure to check out your local Costco.
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