Costco is a haven for bulk shopping and unbeatable deals, but not every item deserves a spot in your cart. Some products, while seemingly a great value, might not be the smartest buy due to price, quality, or practicality.
Here’s a breakdown of 12 items to skip at Costco for smarter shopping, including key details about why they might not be worth your money.
1. Sodas $12.99/36-pack, 12 fl oz
Why Skip It
Buying soda in bulk might seem economical, but often, grocery stores offer better discounts on smaller packs during sales.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 140
Total Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Sodium: 45mg
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 39g
Protein: 0g
Ingredients
Carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, caramel color, phosphoric acid, natural flavors, caffeine.
Preparation Instructions
Best served chilled or over ice.
2. Pre-Cut Produce $9.99/3 lbs
Why Skip It
Pre-cut produce may be convenient, but it’s significantly pricier than buying whole fruits and vegetables. Plus, it spoils faster.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 60
Total Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Sodium: 0mg
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 1g
Ingredients
A mix of pineapple, melon, strawberries, and grapes (varies by pack).
Preparation Instructions
Ready to eat. Keep refrigerated.
3. Books $12.99 to $20.99 per book
Why Skip It
Costco’s book selection is limited and often priced higher than online retailers or local bookstores.
4. Kirkland Brand Toilet Paper $19.99/30 rolls
Why Skip It
While Kirkland’s toilet paper is affordable, many customers report it’s less durable compared to other brands, leading to quicker consumption.
5. School and Office Materials $15.99 for bulk supplies
Why Skip It
Seasonal back-to-school sales at other retailers often beat Costco’s prices for school and office supplies.
6. Name-Brand Liquor $25.99 to $55.99 per bottle (750ml)
Why Skip It
While Costco’s Kirkland-brand liquors are often praised for quality and value, name-brand liquors can usually be found cheaper at local liquor stores.
7. Most Electronics – Price Varies widely
Why Skip It
Costco offers excellent warranties, but electronics are often cheaper during promotional sales at electronics retailers or online stores.
8. Rice $18.99/25 lbs
Why Skip It
Bulk rice at Costco can be a great deal, but it’s unnecessary unless you consume it frequently. Otherwise, it may go stale.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 200
Total Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sodium: 0mg
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 4g
Ingredients
Long-grain white rice.
Preparation Instructions
Rinse rice thoroughly. Cook 1 cup rice with 2 cups water. Simmer for 18-20 minutes.
9. Peruvian Avocados $6.99/6-count bag
Why Skip It
Costco’s avocados often ripen unevenly, making it hard to consume all before they spoil.
10. First-Round Seasonal Items – Price Varies by item
Why Skip It
Seasonal items are often marked down closer to the end of the season, so patience can lead to significant savings.
11. Flour $8.99/25 lbs
Why Skip It
Unless you bake frequently, bulk flour can spoil before you finish it.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 110
Total Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Sodium: 0mg
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Enriched wheat flour (wheat flour, malted barley flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid).
Preparation Instructions
Store in a cool, dry place. Use in baking recipes.
12. Coffee $14.99/3 lbs
Why Skip It
Pre-ground coffee at Costco may lose freshness before you use it all. Smaller bags from specialty stores are often fresher and more flavorful.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 0
Total Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 0g
Ingredients
100% roasted coffee beans.
Preparation Instructions
Use 1 tbsp coffee per 6 oz water. Brew as desired.
By skipping these 12 items, you can make smarter shopping decisions at Costco and get the most value for your money!
