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Costco is one of the best stores to visit when you need to feed a large family. You get incredible deals on massive portions, but are the prices worth it for everything?
Not exactly. There are plenty of items that aren’t worth buying at Costco. They are either too expensive or so big they’re nearly impossible to finish.
While curating these nine items, I focused on stuff I’ve purchased from Costco before. I also looked for more common items that could apply to everyone. We all buy chips, but fewer people purchase wine racks or espresso machines.
Keep reading through for nine items that you’re better off buying somewhere other than Costco. Maybe this list will save you a few extra bucks.
1. Engagement Rings
Engagement rings, in general, are expensive. I don’t recommend buying them in Costco. There are plenty of other spots that are cheaper and offer more variety, including Amazon.
At Costco, you can find engagement rings ranging from $500 to nearly $400,000. Call me cheap, but I prefer my less than $200 opal ring.
2. Pet Accessories
You’ll find better deals for pet accessories in stores other than Costco. I’ve always had better luck ordering online or finding pet collars and leashes in stores like Ross and TJ Maxx.
Why pay $40 for a dog bed at Costco when you can find some for less than $20 at discount stores? It’s only worth it if the item is on sale.
3. Seasonal Decor
Do you like decorating your home for the holidays? I know I do. I can’t help but get excited towards the end of the year. Fall and Christmas decorations are adorable but pretty pricey in Costco.
Decorating your home doesn’t need to be expensive. I recommend DIYing decorations or buying them second-hand at thrift stores instead of at Costco.
4. Over the Counter Medicine
Unless you’re treating an army, consider buying your over-the-counter medications and vitamins elsewhere. Costco is known for having massive sizes, but it’s a little ridiculous in this case.
While it’s great to prepare for sickness and injuries, do you really need three large bottles of Tylenol? Keep in mind that medications expire. You might not be able to finish them before the expiration date.
5. Deli Meat
When I used to shop at Costco, I always avoided buying deli meat for a reason.
Sure, the portions are large, but so are the prices. I struggle to justify paying $8 for a pack of sliced turkey meat when I can find a similar-sized pack at Aldi for less than $4.
6. Chips
I’ve always found that buying chips is never cheaper at Costco. Unless you have a large family or an event coming up, there is no need to buy massive bags of chips.
While they last a long time because of the size of the bag, the set price hurts. It doesn’t feel great paying $20 for a variety pack of chips. You can find similar deals in Walmart, Publix, and most local grocery stores.
7. Salmon
One of my favorite foods to eat is salmon. If I had the money, I’d constantly buy fresh salmon. But sadly, this delicious fish is expensive, and Costco is no exception.
While the meat selection in Costco is excellent, I tend to stay away from seafood. The last time I checked my local Costco online, 10 pounds of skin-on salmon was being sold for $219.99.
8. Fruits and Vegetables
I don’t recommend buying fresh produce at Costco. The quality and variety are fine, but the massive sizes are a turn-off. Can you really eat pounds of mangos or cherries before they go bad?
I also don’t have the money to splurge on so many fruits and vegetables at once. Instead, it’s easier on your wallet to buy fruits and veggies elsewhere.
9. TVs
While I have found some incredible deals on electronics in Costco, not all were winners. I’ve had the best luck buying kitchen gadgets and electronics, but not TVs.
Smart TVs in Costco are pricey. I wouldn’t touch a TV from Costco unless it was on sale or I had a coupon to bring down the price. At my local Costco, smart TVs range from $100 to $4,800.
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