5 Secret Shopping Perks Only Costco Members Know About

Any savvy spender will argue Costco is a shopper’s paradise. Steep discounts on bulk items? Count us in! But being a Costco member has more perks than scoring big savings and chowing down on a delicious Costco hot dog after checkout. Before your next trip to the megastore, here are five unexpected perks only Costco members can take advantage of. Plus: Check out the 12 things Costco employees won’t tell you about.

1. “Earn” On Discount Gift Cards

When it comes to gift cards, what you pay for is what you get, right? Not at Costco. The store sells gift cards to restaurants, movie theaters, and more for less than their face value. Right now, you can buy two $50 gift cards to Shogun or four $25 gift cards to the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf for $79.99. The difference is basically free money.

2. Save on Vacations

Costco wants to make every experience a little lighter on your wallet–including your next vacation. The store has partnerships with companies like Best Western and Hyatt, so it has access to great group discounts you wouldn’t be able to get anywhere else. With deals on cruises, theme parks and much more, all you need to do is start packing your bags.

3. Buy a Car for Less

It doesn’t matter if you’re vying for a sedan or an SUV, shopping for a car is expensive and time-consuming. Costco’s Auto Program partnered with over 3,000 dealerships so you can buy a new or preowned car with ease. The best part? You don’t have to negotiate the price down with the salesman; Costco already did it for you.

4. Get Water Delivered to Your Doorstep

Not a fan of tap water? Forget filling (and refilling) your Brita pitcher; Costco will keep you hydrated. Once you choose between spring, purified, and artesian water, Costco will deliver bulk bottles for as little as $6.49.

5. Take Advantage of Costco’s Insurance Policies

Thanks to Costco’s Health Insurance Marketplace, buying insurance doesn’t have to be a pain in the neck. Members can receive reasonable quotes on health, dental and vision plans. And if you’re buying a home or getting a new car, Costco partnered up with Ameriprise to ensure your new investment is covered, too.

Our list is only scratching the surface of all the great perks Costco offers its members. If you don’t have a Costco card, why not sign up? Memberships start at $60 per year, and as you can see, it can easily pay for itself.

Need budget friendly meals? These recipes are big on flavor and easy on the wallet.

Next, check out: 15 Things You Aren’t Buying at Costco—But Should