Costco is famous for its amazing deals, but the annual membership fee can be a bit steep if you don’t shop there often. Did you know there are legitimate, legal ways to shop at Costco without buying a membership? If you want to experience Costco without the commitment, here are the best loopholes you can use today.
1. The Costco Shop Card (Gift Card)
This is the easiest and most popular method. If you have a friend or family member who is a Costco member, ask them to buy a Costco Shop Card (Costco’s official gift card) for you. Non-members are legally allowed to enter the store and purchase items as long as they pay with this gift card.
2. Use the Costco Pharmacy
By federal law in the United States, Costco cannot restrict access to prescription life-saving medications. This means you can walk right past the membership counter and tell the staff, “I’m here for the pharmacy.” You can buy your prescriptions at Costco’s low prices without a membership.
3. Buy Alcohol (In Certain States)
Depending on state laws (like in California, New York, and Texas), it is illegal to require a membership for alcohol purchases. If you live in one of these states, you can tell the greeter at the door that you are only buying alcohol, and they must let you in to purchase wine, beer, or liquor.
4. Shop Online at Costco.com
Anyone can shop on Costco’s website without a membership! However, there is a small catch: non-members will be charged a 5% surcharge on their total purchase. But if you are buying a rare, high-ticket item, it might still be cheaper than paying the full annual membership fee.
