Costco is a wonderland for anyone who loves a good deal. From massive grocery hauls to luxury vacations and discount gas, it’s easy to see why millions of shoppers choose Costco each year. But before you can start reaping the rewards, you’ll need a membership. Or do you?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to save on a Costco membership, how to access exclusive perks, and what you can still enjoy even if you’re not ready to commit. Whether you’re a first-timer or a longtime member, there’s probably a Costco hack here you haven’t tried yet.

Save on a Costco Membership With Bonus Perks

While Costco doesn’t offer promo codes or traditional discounts on memberships, there are still ways to get more for your money. Right now, you can grab a limited-time Costco membership deal that comes with a free $40 Costco Shop Card. That’s like getting two-thirds of your annual fee back just for signing up.

If you want to explore other ongoing options, be sure to check out the updated offers on our Costco membership discount page, where new bundles and promotions are featured regularly. These deals are especially helpful if you’re joining for the first time or gifting a membership to someone else.

Gold Star vs. Executive: Which Membership is Right for You?

Costco offers two core membership types:

• Gold Star Membership – $60/year: Gives you access to all Costco warehouses and online shopping.
• Gold Star Executive Membership – $120/year: Includes all the benefits of the Gold Star tier, plus 2% cash back on eligible purchases (up to $1,000 per year).

If you plan to shop at Costco frequently or take advantage of big-ticket items like electronics, travel bookings, or car services, the Executive tier can easily pay for itself. For example, if you spend $3,000 annually at Costco, your 2% reward covers the entire $60 upgrade fee.

Get the Benefits Without the Membership

Not ready to join? You can still take advantage of some Costco services:

• Pharmacy: Prescription medications at Costco pharmacies are available to everyone—no membership required.
• Optical Exams: Non-members can book eye exams with Costco optometrists, though you’ll need a membership or gift card to buy glasses or contacts.
• Alcohol: In certain states, alcohol purchases are legally open to non-members.
• Food Court: At some locations, you can grab a slice of pizza or a $1.50 hot dog combo without flashing a membership card—just enter through the exit.
• Shop with a Gift Card: A Costco Shop Card lets non-members shop in-store and online. You’ll need a member to buy and load the card for you.

Fuel Your Savings at Costco Gas Stations

One of the biggest Costco membership perks is access to their low-priced gas. On average, members save around $0.30 per gallon compared to nearby stations. If you fill up weekly, that can translate into over $150 in annual savings. Plus, Costco fuel is high quality and TOP TIER™ certified, meaning it contains detergents that keep your engine clean and running efficiently.

Save on Tires and Car Maintenance

Costco may not always have the lowest tire prices upfront, but when you include installation, balancing, and disposal (all bundled in), the total value is tough to beat. Members also get five years of free flat repairs, tire rotations, and pressure checks included with every purchase. Just keep in mind that Costco doesn’t do wheel alignments, so you may need to budget for that separately.

Travel Smart with Costco Vacation Packages

Booking travel through Costco can result in some serious savings—especially on hotels, cruises, and rental cars. Thanks to their bulk-buying power, Costco Travel offers reduced rates that often beat major travel websites. Executive members earn an extra 2% back on eligible travel purchases, adding even more value.

Need a rental car? The Costco Travel Low Price Finder compares rates across trusted brands like Avis and Enterprise, and includes taxes and fees upfront—no surprise charges when you pick up the keys.

Credit Card Perks for Extra Cashback

For those who want to stack savings, the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi offers generous cash-back on everyday spending:

• 4% on gas (up to $7,000/year)
• 3% on restaurants and travel
• 2% on Costco purchases
• 1% on everything else

It’s a great way to offset membership fees and rack up rewards faster—especially if you’re fueling up or shopping regularly.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re shopping for groceries, planning your next vacation, or just trying to save on gas, Costco delivers serious value. While memberships do come with a fee, the savings can easily outweigh the cost—especially when you start with an offer like a free $40 Costco Shop Card with signup. To explore more ongoing deals and benefits, head to our Costco membership discount hub today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I shop at Costco without a membership?

Yes—non-members can fill prescriptions, get eye exams, and buy alcohol in select states. You can also shop with a Costco Shop Card purchased by a member.

Is the Executive Membership worth it?

If you spend at least $3,000 per year at Costco, the 2% cash back can cover the upgrade cost. Plus, you get extra perks on travel and services.

How can I get a Costco membership deal?

You can get bonus perks like a $40 Costco Shop Card with select offers. Check the current membership deal or visit the Costco discount page for the latest promotions.