Starting holiday shopping early in the season can help you save money and snag the season’s hottest toys before they sell out. But it’s important to approach your favorite stores with a plan to avoid overspending and get the most value. Below are five tips to maximize your Costco membership during the December holidays.
Also here are top deals that make your Costco membership worth it.
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Look for Bulk Deals
Whether you’re shopping for friends, co-workers or teachers, Costco offers fun, high-quality items in packages that you can separate and re-wrap as thoughtful gifts. For instance, these Simply Indulgent scented candles feature fun fall designs and are sold in packs of four for $19.99.
Likewise, a 12-pack of three-count Ferrero Rocher Milk Chocolate Hazelnut Candy ($16.99) makes great stocking stuffers or can be paired with a gift card for anyone on your list.
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Buy Gift Cards at a Discount
Speaking of gift cards, buy them at a discount in your Costco club or online. Get four-packs of $25 gift cards to favorite restaurant chains like IHOP or Red Lobster for $80, $50 movie gift cards for just $40 or four Cold Stone Creamery $15 gift cards for $48, a $12 savings.
Stock Up on Gift Wrap
Kirkland Signature gift wrap is nearly legendary and can last for multiple seasons. Stock up on six rolls of double-sided holiday wrapping paper and you’ll never get bored with the designs. The Hallmark Holiday recyclable gift bags are also a great bargain at $27 for 20 bags of assorted sizes.
Grab Lunch at the Food Court Before You Shop
If you’re worn down and cranky with hunger, you’re more likely to make impossible buying decisions that may not be the best choice for your wallet. You can shop on Saturdays to fill your belly with samples, but crowds are likely to be more intense.
Grab a legendary hot dog and soda from the food court for $1.50 or a chicken bake big enough for two people for $4. Feeding the family? Get a whole pizza for $10.
Know the Codes
When you’re shopping at Costco, it’s important to compare prices based on units. You can often save by purchasing items in bulk, but not always. Here’s another trick: Understand what the signs on the shelves mean so you can decipher the best deals.
For instance, marked-down prices end in .97, while regular-priced items end in .99. Prices ending in .39, .49, or .79 are manufacturer deals, as previously reported by GOBankingRates.com.
Finally, if you see a price tag with an asterisk, you better grab that item now because it won’t be restocked. And with the holidays coming, it could sell out fast.
Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Costco Hacks To Make Holiday Gift Shopping Cheaper
