Perhaps you already know of some of the unusual items — from tires to prescription drugs — you can get at Costco. But there are plenty more discoveries to be made at the warehouse store.
We checked out some of the least-known items you can buy at or through Costco. Included were purchases you can make at a Costco store, purchases available on Costco’s website and goods and services that Costco sells in conjunction with third parties.
Just note that with Costco, products can come and go. Also, their availability may depend on where you live or the store’s location.
How many of these items surprise you?
1. Swimming pools
Stay refreshed all summer long with your own above-ground or inflatable pool. Costco usually carries a number of sizes and options so you can find the best fit for your family. And they stock the chemicals and supplies you’ll need to keep your pool water sparkling clean.
2. Food stockpiles
Whether you’re stocking up on food for a big camping trip or in case of an emergency, Costco has you covered. Members can purchase an assortment of foods with a long shelf life, including easy-to-prep meal kits (just add boiling water), freeze-dried fruits and veggies, pancake mixes and more.
3. Gold bars
If you needed proof a Costco membership is worth its weight in gold, here you go: Members can purchase 1-ounce 24-karat gold bars. This is one item you won’t be able to buy in bulk, and you have to be quick as it’s a hot item with the affluent, according to CNBC Make It.
“[In 2024], Wells Fargo estimated that Costco was selling between $100 million to $200 million worth of 1-ounce, 24-karat gold bars a month.”
4. Insurance
Costco has incorporated insurance into its offerings. By linking up with well-established players, the Costco Insurance Agency offers:
- Home and auto insurance through Connect, powered by American Family Insurance
- Pet insurance via Figo
- Life insurance sold in conjunction with the Protective Life Insurance Co.
If you run a business, Costco can even help with employee health insurance plans.
5. Pet medications
Costco pharmacies have low prices on prescription medications — both for people and their pets.
To get started, ask your veterinarian to send your animal’s prescription to a Costco pharmacy. Or get a paper prescription to bring to Costco. Another route: Visit a Costco pharmacy to ask a pharmacist to send a prescription request to your vet.
6. Vacations
Costco Travel can book your prepaid travel. That includes hotels, rental cars and cruises, the in-house travel agency says.
Travel packages also can be purchased that include hotel and air travel in locations such as Tahiti, Costa Rica, Fiji, Mexico, the Caribbean, Africa and Europe.
To learn more, see “7 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Costco Travel.”
7. Artificial turf
At Costco, you’ll find artificial grass and turf among the landscaping supplies.
Several varieties are available so you can create a new yard in an instant. And don’t stop there: Carpet a dog run or play area with artificial pet turf.
8. Caskets and urns
Costco has a selection of caskets and urns. Casket prices are around $1,350.
The Federal Trade Commission requires funeral homes to accept a casket you have purchased from an outside source, Costco says. Even so, Costco asks customers to notify their chosen funeral home of their Costco purchase within a day of ordering.
Costco caskets may be purchased in and shipped to only certain states.
9. New and used cars
Shopping for a vehicle? Include Costco in your hunt. The company offers both new cars and pre-owned vehicles.
Costco doesn’t actually sell the vehicles. The Costco Auto Program partners with approved dealers who meet certain standards.
To learn more about it, check out “This Might Be the Most Valuable Costco Member Perk You Aren’t Using.”
10. Caviar
Costco is famed for its fresh and frozen meat and fish. Did you know that includes tinned caviar?
Caviar, a prized and usually expensive delicacy, is the salted eggs (roe) of sturgeon, a type of fish. Traditionally, caviar came from the Caspian Sea and Black Sea. It is produced around the world now and harvested from numerous fish.
11. Bottled-water delivery
Costco promises savings on home or office delivery of bottled water. Working with suppliers in most U.S. markets, the big retailer says it offers exclusive prices and options.
12. Musical instruments
Get your musical groove going at Costco.com. The retailer’s website sells enough types of musical instruments to start a band.
For example, you’ll find digital pianos — including a digital baby grand — electronic drum kits, amplifiers, keyboards, guitars and karaoke machines.
13. Wheelchairs and walkers
Costco.com sells wheelchairs and walkers. Walkers are priced beginning at $115. Wheelchair prices are at $200 or less.
14. Home generators
You can be prepared to supply electricity to your home if the power grid fails. Storms and disasters are less of a threat when you have an emergency home generator.
Costco sells smaller, portable generators and whole-house generators.
15. Custom closets
Ready for a revamp of your closets? Costco offers made-to-order closets and built-ins from Closet Factory.
The service also caters to those who want to design a home office, pantry, laundry room, entertainment center and wall units. Even wall beds are available, and Costco sells both design and installation of the systems.
16. The kitchen sink
When we checked recently, Costco.com was offering around two dozen kitchen and utility sinks. In typical Costco style, products ranged from simple freestanding utility sinks to stainless steel undermount sinks and commercial sinks.
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