NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Costco membership is best known for bulk groceries, the $1.50 hot dog combo and towering packages of paper goods, but some of the biggest savings can happen well beyond the winding checkout lines.
From travel and gas to gift cards, optical services and warranty coverage, Costco members can access a range of discounts and services, according to the company’s website and news reports.
Here are five lesser-known ways shoppers can extend their Costco membership beyond the warehouse aisles.
RICH AMERICANS CHOOSE GROCERY CHAIN Over Rivals, Survey Shows
1. Save at the pump with Costco gas
Costco members can check local gas prices and station hours through the retailer’s app. (Zak Bennett/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Buying Costco gas can help households offset the free annual membership, according to Money Talks News. It often costs less than competitors, although actual savings vary by location and driving habits, depending on the outlet.
An added benefit is that Costco members can check local gas prices and station hours through the Costco app before heading to the pump.
And another secret at the pump is that the warehouse’s long hoses also allow drivers to refuel from any side of their vehicle. “Whether your gas tank is on the left or right side of your car, you can choose the shortest line,” reads the Costco website.
THE COSTCO FOOD COURT ITEM CONTAINS MORE PROTEIN THAN ANYTHING ELSE ON THE MENU, BUT THERE’S A CATCH
2. Earn 2% back with an executive membership
Costco’s Executive membership costs more than a Gold Star membership, but includes a 2% annual reward on qualifying purchases. (Tim Boyle/Getty Images)
The upgrade from Costco’s $65 annual membership to the $130 Executive Membership includes a 2% annual reward — up to $1,250 — on select purchases.
Since the upgrade costs $65 more than a Gold Star membership, buyers would need about $3,250 in qualifying annual spending to cover the additional cost of the upgrade.
COSTCO BRINGS BACK FAN-FAVORITE FOOD TREAT AFTER YEARS OFF THE MENU
Executive Members also receive faster access to the warehouse, starting at 9 a.m. in many locations, as well as additional discounts on select Costco services.
3. Use Costco Travel for Packages, Cruises, and Rental Cars
Costco Travel offers its members access to vacation packages, cruises, hotels and rental cars. (Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Costco Travel allows members to book vacation packages, cruises, hotels and rental cars through Costco. Executive Members can also earn their annual 2% reward on eligible travel purchases, although the reward is credited after the trip is completed.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE NEWS
One member who booked a trip to Costa Rica said she received a $200 Shop Card after returning, paying for more than three years of membership, Money Talk News reported.
4. Buy discounted gift cards before dining out or traveling
CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER
Costco sells gift cards for a variety of activities, from theme park tickets to city exploration passes, according to its website, at a discounted price.
Discounted gift cards and tire services are among the additional benefits offered to Costco members. (Getty Images)
“Costco has deals like two $50 gift cards for $79.99 or four $15 gift cards for $44.99,” Linda Chavez, founder and CEO of Seniors Life Insurance Finder, told Real Simple. “These deals make stocking up on gift cards for Christmas or birthdays much easier,” she added. “Gift cards for movie theaters, theme parks, shows, activities and more are also available.”
TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ
5. Get Free Tire Maintenance After Buying Tires at Costco
Costco shoppers who purchase tires through its Tire Center receive free rotation, balancing, pressure checks and flat repairs for the life of those tires, according to Money Talks News.
Costco memberships can offer savings that extend beyond bulk grocery purchases. (Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
These services can add up over time, although buyers should compare tire prices and locally available services before purchasing, the website notes.
Gn bussni
