Costco is a heaven for bulk purchases, discounted products, and delicious food samples. You can skip lunch, and just walk down the aisles for a while; the free samples will stuff you before you even realize! After that, you can resume your shopping day. The problem is, you have to be a member to gain access to all these deals. But did you know there are ways to shop at Costco without a membership? Here are some tips on how to shop at Costco like a pro, even without a membership card.
For some shoppers, a membership at Costco can be a great deal. With a membership, you can take advantage of all the deals, including the food court, gas station, and even vacation packages. Plus, the executive membership offers additional discounts, which can pay for the cost of the membership itself. If you’re a frequent Costco shopper, you may find that the membership cost is worth the savings you get on your purchases.
Alcohol and Prescription Medications Purchases Without a Costco Membership
One of the perks of shopping at Costco is the low price of alcohol beverages. You don’t need to be a member to purchase alcohol in states that allow it. You can buy alcohol in 14 states, including California and New York, without a membership card. When you’re in line to pay, let the cashier know that you don’t have a membership card, and they’ll scan you with a generic membership number. Keep in mind that a supervisor may need to be called to complete the transaction.
The states that allow you to buy alcohol at Costco without a membership are: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Texas, and Vermont.
If you’re not a Costco member, you can still take advantage of their pharmacy prices. Buying prescriptions without a membership is allowed in every Costco location with a pharmacy across the country. According to the company’s website, you can purchase prescriptions online or in-store and pay with cash, debit/ATM cards, Costco Shop Cards, and Visa. You’ll need to have a doctor’s written prescription to buy most medications available at a Costco Pharmacy.
The Costco Optometrist Services Are Affordable and Great Quality
You don’t need to be a member to make an appointment with a Costco optometrist. You can get an eye exam without a membership card, which can save you a lot of money, especially if you don’t have health insurance.
Unfortunately, you can’t buy prescription glasses or contacts without a membership card. However, the eye exam may include services to monitor your visual sharpness, the health of your retinas, and more. This perk is available at every Costco location across the country.
Some blogs say that the Costco’s food court is free for everyone, but here’s the actual truth: since early 2020, Costco has required a membership card to purchase anything at the food court, including the famous $1.50 hot dog and soda combo. So, unfortunately, this is no longer a benefit of shopping at Costco without a membership.