Costco shopping guide: Experts reveal 4 items to avoid, 6 to stock up on

For many consumers, Costco represents a prime destination for stocking up on daily necessities and groceries, with the expectation of significant savings through bulk purchasing. However, not all items at the warehouse club are bargains, and buying the wrong products can lead to unexpected expenses rather than savings. A shopping expert has revealed key insights into which items are worth the investment and which should be approached with caution.

According to Canadian content creator Tina Chow, who runs the popular "Costco Lovers Canada" community, certain categories consistently offer excellent value. She recommends stocking up on over-the-counter medications and vitamins, particularly Costco's Kirkland Signature brand, which is often cheaper than name brands due to Costco's control over the supply chain. Designer items can also present surprising savings; for instance, a Burberry Kensington Heritage trench coat was found on Costco's website for approximately $2,400 CAD, compared to the official Burberry price of $3,290 CAD. Additionally, high-value purchases like Dyson Airwraps are made less risky by Costco's return policy.

Personal care items like Gillette Fusion5 razor blade refills are another smart buy, with an 18-pack costing around $65 CAD at Costco versus $109 CAD elsewhere, representing a 40% saving for frequent users. Chow also points to cosmetics and skincare brands like Clarins and La Mer, noting that Costco's flexible return policy offers a safety net if a product doesn't suit one's skin type. Food items like the famous Costco rotisserie chicken are lauded for their value and versatility, while gluten-free pasta, such as Rummo, is also a popular and well-priced option.

Conversely, Chow advises caution with several product categories. Costco's tire center, while convenient, may involve long wait times for appointments and delivery, and the installation service is exclusive to tires purchased at Costco, making it potentially less cost-effective for some. Sunscreen, often sold in multi-packs, carries expiration dates, meaning consumers might not use it all before it expires, leading to waste. Pre-packaged salads, though seemingly healthy and convenient, can be problematic for smaller households, as they may spoil before being fully consumed. Lastly, butter, typically sold in large quantities, might be impractical for households that don't bake frequently, although it remains a good deal for larger families or avid bakers.