How to Shop at Costco Without a Membership

Costco is a national membership warehouse chain, which carries brand name items at low prices. It's a great place to shop if you're looking to stock up on every day household items or food for your next party. However, if you plan on shopping at Costco only occasionally, then perhaps purchasing a Costco membership may not be the most cost-effective way to meet your needs. In this article, you will learn an easy way to save money by learning how to shop at Costco without a membership.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Friend, relative, or co-worker with a membership
• Cash

1. ***Find a Friend, Relative, or Co-Worker with a Membership***
   
   In order to be able to shop at Costo without getting a membership, first you need to find a friend, relative or co-worker who already has a membership.

2. ***Purchase a Costco Cash Card***
   
   Have them purchase a Costco Cash Card and load money on the card for you (of course, you have to reimburse them for the cost). Remember to thank them for helping you out!
   
   With a Costco Cash card, you can purchase items online or at the warehouse even if you aren't a member. Cash cards can be purchased in denominations from $25 to $1000.

3. ***Call the Toll Free Number on the Card***
   
   With the telephone number on the back of the card, you can activate your card and access the balance. After activating your card, you can also access the balance online if you visit the Costco website.

Tips & Warnings

• Cash cards can be used online, at the Costco store, and Costco gas stations.
• If you want to keep track of what your college student is spending, this is a good way to limit their spending.
• Costco members must purchase and reload the cards, but if you plan on shopping there more than occasionally, then you should purchase a membership.

[frugalmomi]

on 10/17/2009 Great article . I did not know yo could just use the cash card . A good way to keep yourself from spending too much too ! 5*

[askapeach]

on 10/5/2009 I didn't know about the Costco cash card. Thanks for the great tip!

[static404]

on 9/17/2009 Cool idea. Thanks for the tip.

[Brigid]

on 8/25/2009 This is so true, great way to save membership dues

[didi8u]

on 6/18/2009 Grt tips on how to shop at Costco Without a Membership. 5*