The Best Things to Buy At Costco, Because There's More to the Store Than Free Samples

From Woman's Day

Oh, Costco. A magical wonderland of deals and abundance, free samples and mammoth space that's big enough to accommodate the double-wide shopping carts. Going to Costco sometimes feels like going to an amusement park, or perhaps on an old-school adventure voyage — 20,000 Leagues Into the Freezer Section or Around the Baked Goods Section in 80 Minutes. It's not your average shopping experience.

But bigger isn't always better, and sometimes the bright-lights-big-city daze of a Costco trip can be a bit disarming, and you may end up buying some things you don't need. In an effort to help you stay focused and save some money on your next Costco run, we've rounded up some of the best things to buy at Costco. That way you can set off on your voyage with a plan — a treasure map of sorts — to get you in, out, and back home with all the things you need and not a 64-oz carton of mayonnaise. Unless of course that's on your list, then by all means.

Pizza

Whether you want to grab a single slice from the food court or pick up a whole pie, everyone knows Costco's pizza is delicious. Feed yourself, feed your kid's entire soccer team, feed pizza-lovers everywhere.

Peanut Butter Pretzels

Costco's peanut butter pretzel bites are a great go-to snack. They're perfect to keep in the car for little ones who need a snack immediately after school or during a long drive, or you can keep them by your desk at work for that 3 o'clock salty snack craving.

Kids' Toys

It's always good to do a bit of research before buying kids' toys to make sure you find the best deal, but Costco is home to a lot of deals on some pretty classic kids' toys. Imagine all the fun you — I mean your kid — could have with these rainbow Legos.

Kodiak Cakes Pancake Mix

These protein-packed pancake and waffle mixes are delicious and a healthy way to start your day. A whole plate of whole grains? Yes, please!

Wine

Kirkland cabernet has earned quite a reputation for being a great glass of wine. And it stays fresh for up to 30 days, which means you don't have to feel bad about cracking it open when you're having a dinner for one.

Nuts

Almonds, peanuts, pecans — take your pick. Costco has an assortment of nuts of all varieties that come in big containers so you'll be set for weeks. They're a great healthy snack to have on hand, and you'll look very fancy setting some out in a cute glass bowl when you have company over.

Hazelnut Spread

Some have said Costco's hazelnut spread is better than Nutella. I'm just saying...

Almond Butter

Costco's almond butter is tasty, creamy, and comes in a tub much larger than what you'll find at other grocery stores for about the same price. A deal, and a great addition to your healthy snack cabinet.

Toilet Paper and Cleaning Supplies

Costco is known for selling some items in serious bulk. If you have room in your house to store these things, it's a great place to stock up on things you know you'll always need such as toiler paper, paper towels, and antibacterial wipes. No more emergency trips to the store when you realize you've finished the last roll of TP.

A Hot Dog and A Soda

A hot dog and a fountain drink for $1.50? Yes please! This classic Costco deal is a reason to make sure you visit the food court during your grocery run.

Bakery Items

Give in to the temptation and take a gander through the bakery section of the store. There's tons of great options. If you can't decide what to pick (and you're not sold on the one-of-everything plan) go for a classic trio of cookies that includes chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, and white chocolate chip macadamia nut. The white chocolate chip ones are a sleeper hit, and they're extra tasty stored in the freezer.

Sheet Cake

Speaking of bakery items...Costco's sheet cake is a great go-to for any event requiring a cake. Kid's birthday? Sheet cake. Anniversary party? Sheet cake. Co-worker's retirement announcement? Sheet cake. It's basically the answer to all of life's questions.

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