Buzz
Attention, savvy shoppers and bulk-buyers: Costco is tightening its membership rules. According to an update on their website, soon shoppers will need to scan their membership cards at the store entrance, with the photo linked to the account being matched as well. Essentially, the days of using a friend's card without purchasing a membership are over.
But don't worry—there are still ways to shop Costco without a full membership. Although membership fees are increasing by $5 (to $65) as of September 1, here are a few inventive ways to keep shopping without committing to a full membership.
Buy a gift card
Costco's official policy allows anyone to shop at its warehouse locations if they present a "Shop Card," which is essentially a gift card. These cards are available for purchase at Costco locations and electronically online. However, there's a catch: these cards can only be bought by members and with a debit or credit card tied to the Costco membership name. So, to take advantage of this loophole, you’ll need a friend with a membership who can buy the card on your behalf.
Using this workaround is perfectly fine and fully allowed by Costco, according to their policy. As per the Costco customer service FAQs page, "Non-members as well as members may use Costco Shop Cards to shop at any Costco location in the U.S." Once you’re inside, you can use your own payment method to buy the goods. So, you can use a $25 gift card to enter, and then feel free to spend as much as you’d like.
Team up with a friend
If dealing with the gift card is too complicated, you still have other options to shop at Costco without a membership. One simple approach is to join a Costco member friend, who can bring you along as a guest. You might even treat them to a snack at the food court afterward as a token of appreciation.
Shop online (with a small fee)
While it may not replicate the experience of walking through the aisles and buying in bulk, don't overlook the online option. Costco.com allows non-members to purchase many items, usually with just a slight markup. It's an excellent way to grab Costco's exclusive deals without leaving home.
You can access Costco's pharmacy and optical services without needing a membership.
Here’s a fun fact: Costco’s pharmacy, optical section, and food court are open to everyone! That means you can still indulge in their iconic $1.50 hot dog and soda combo without needing a membership card.
