Costco is often touted as a go-to destination for shoppers looking for good deals on everyday items. However, some experts suggest that the bulk retailer may not always offer the best value for your money.
“Just because Costco has it doesn’t mean it’s a bargain,” warns Charlene Haugsven, founder of MyFrugalAdventures.com. One of the biggest reasons for this is the size of the products. Because Costco generally sells items in bulk, it can be difficult for the average shopper to consume the larger quantities before they go bad, or the expiration dates arrives. But what specific items should shoppers be wary of buying at Costco? According to Haugsven and other experts, these are the top eight types of groceries that may not be worth purchasing in bulk.
Wait! Don’t Buy This in Bulk at Costco in the United States
It’s important to take into consideration that while these items may not be the best value at Costco, regarding how fast you could eat them, the retailer still offers some of the greatest deals in the United States on a variety of other products. However, it’s always a good idea to compare prices and consider the quantity before making a purchase.
Going back to the products that we’re talking about here, the first in the list are the cereal breakfasts. The main reason for this is that cereal can go stale quickly, and if you’re not able to consume it before it goes bad, you’ll end up wasting money. Also, cereal can take up a lot of space in your pantry, which can be a problem if you have limited storage.
Another grocery you should buy in smaller packs is the ground coffee: it can lose its flavor quickly, so buying a large quantity may not be the best idea. Additionally, Costco’s bulk size may not be appropriate for those who only drink a cup or two a day, which means the coffee will be wasted.
Flour is another item that experts suggest costumers should avoid buying in bulk at Costco. The main reason for this is that flour can absorb moisture and humidity, which can cause it to spoil. Additionally, if you’re not a frequent baker, you’ll likely end up with a large quantity of flour that will go to waste.
How to Wisely Use Your Costco Membership
To better use your Costco’s membership, it’s important to plan your purchases ahead of time. Make a list of the items you need and compare prices with other retailers. This will help you determine which items are truly a good deal at Costco. Another tip is to consider the shelf life of the products you’re buying. Items with a longer shelf life, such as canned goods, frozen foods, and non-perishable pantry items, are generally a better value in bulk.
Two good products worth shopping in bulk at Costco are: paper products such as toilet paper, paper towels, and napkins, as they have a long shelf life and are often cheaper in bulk. Cleaning supplies, such as laundry detergent, dish soap, and all-purpose cleaner are also items that can be purchased in larger quantities and stored for larger times. These products are used frequently and are often cheaper in bulk, saving you money in the long run.