Top Tips for First-Time Costco Shoppers: What You Need to Know Before You Go

• Ensure prices include VAT and avoid impulse buys.
• Leave the kids at home and never shop on an empty stomach.
• Don’t miss out on popular buys like rotisserie chicken and budget-friendly fuel.

If you're planning your first trip to Costco, seasoned shoppers have some valuable advice to ensure you make the most of your visit. The membership-based retailer, known for its bulk discounts on everything from food to furniture, can be overwhelming for first-timers.

Experienced Costco shoppers recommend double-checking prices to ensure VAT is included and comparing them with other retailers to avoid being lured into impulse buys. As one shopper noted, “Look at the top price, not the bottom one,” while another reminded shoppers, “Remember most prices exclude VAT.”

To avoid coming home with a car full of unplanned purchases, some suggest making an initial loop around the store without a trolley and leaving the kids at home. “You’ll go in there for a chicken and some muffins, then two hours later you’ll have bought a kayak,” one customer joked.

Popular items to consider on your visit include the famous rotisserie chicken and a stop at the café. Shoppers also rave about Costco’s frozen chicken goujons, Ferrero Rocher ice cream, and bottled water. For those with access to a Costco fuel station, filling up is a must as “fuel is usually a really good price,” according to one member.

Practical tips for a successful trip include ensuring you have enough space in your car for larger items and avoiding shopping on Saturdays due to the crowds. And, as always, don’t shop on an empty stomach!

Emma Lake reported in The Sun that Costco plans to open 14 new warehouses across the UK over the next two years, adding to its current 29 locations.

Tom Church, Co-Founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, said, “Costco offers incredible value for its members, but it's important to shop smart and avoid unnecessary purchases. With these tips, first-time shoppers can navigate the store with confidence.”