Introduction
Ever walked into Costco for a pack of batteries and left with a cartload of unexpected goodies? Yep—welcome to the club! Costco is more than just a wholesale store; it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re a foodie, home chef, parent, or savvy shopper, this warehouse wonderland has something you’ll fall in love with.
But with shelves stocked sky-high, you may wonder, what are the best things at Costco really worth buying?
In this two-part guide, we’re going to break it down and highlight the absolute best things at Costco you should grab on your next trip. Let’s dive into Part 1!
Best Food & Grocery Finds at Costco
Kirkland Signature Rotisserie Chicken
This juicy, seasoned bird is iconic. At under $5, it’s not only one of the cheapest meals around but also one of the tastiest. You can serve it as-is, shred it for salads, or toss it into tacos. It’s fresh, flavorful, and super versatile.
Costco Chicken Taco Kit
Ready-to-eat heaven in a box! This kit includes seasoned chicken, tortillas, slaw, salsa, cilantro lime crema, and cheese. It’s perfect for lazy weeknights or impromptu dinners with friends. And yes—it actually tastes homemade.
Organic Frozen Fruit for Smoothies
If you’re into morning smoothies or baking, Costco’s bulk bags of frozen organic berries and mangoes are gold. You get premium quality at a fraction of grocery store prices.
Cheese and Charcuterie Boards
Costco carries everything from brie to aged cheddar and salami to prosciutto. Create a gorgeous cheese board for your next gathering without breaking the bank. Pro tip: Look for the seasonal cheese samplers—they’re a steal!
Ready-Made Meals & Deli Favorites
Lasagna, mac & cheese, chicken alfredo—you name it. Costco’s pre-made meals are delicious and generous in portion size. Keep one in your fridge for days when cooking is just not it.
Pantry & Baking Essentials
Costco’s Olive Oil (Kirkland)
Kirkland’s extra virgin olive oil is cold-pressed, organic, and loved by chefs. It’s a pantry staple and fantastic for cooking or dressing salads.
Spices and Seasonings in Bulk
From pink Himalayan salt to taco seasoning, Costco sells high-quality spices in generous sizes. If you cook often, this is a smart and cost-effective option.
Baking Mixes, Flours & Sugars
Whether you’re baking bread or brownies, you’ll find trusted brands in big sizes—like King Arthur flour or Ghirardelli brownie mix. Stock up once and forget about weekly grocery runs.
Nut Butters & Spreads
Love almond butter or hazelnut spread? Costco has the big jars of your favorites—organic, no added sugar, or indulgent. Kirkland almond butter is a fan favorite.
Best Beverages at Costco
Kirkland Sparkling Water Packs
Move over LaCroix! These refreshing sparkling waters come in a variety of flavors, and honestly, they’re just as good—if not better.
Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate
A lifesaver for caffeine lovers. This powerful, smooth cold brew is easy to mix and gets you through those long work-from-home days without needing to hit a café.
Organic Juice Boxes for Kids
Perfect for school lunches, road trips, or just snack time. They’re organic, low in sugar, and wallet-friendly.
Wine & Liquor: Is Costco Wine Worth It?
Yes, yes, and yes. Kirkland wines regularly compete with bottles twice their price. If you’re hosting or just unwinding on a Friday, their selection has you covered.
Sweet Treats & Snacks You Shouldn’t Miss
Chocolate Covered Almonds
Crunchy, chocolatey, slightly salty—what’s not to love? A dangerously addictive snack, best kept out of reach (or not).
Trail Mix and Snack Packs
Whether you’re hiking or just snackin’ during Netflix, Costco’s variety packs of trail mix are protein-packed and yummy.
Protein Bars & Energy Bites
Brands like RXBar, Kirkland, and Clif are available in bulk, making Costco a goldmine for fitness lovers or meal preppers.
Household Essentials That Are Worth Every Penny
Kirkland Toilet Paper & Paper Towels
Believe the hype—Kirkland TP is soft, strong, and incredibly affordable. Same goes for their paper towels: thick, absorbent, and long-lasting.
Laundry Detergents & Cleaning Supplies
Tide, Kirkland, and eco-friendly brands are available in huge jugs that last months. It’s one less thing to worry about during your weekly store run.
Trash Bags in Bulk
Trust us—you’ll never want to buy small packs again. Kirkland trash bags are sturdy, budget-friendly, and essential for big households.
Conclusion
Costco isn’t just about buying in bulk—it’s about buying smart. With the right picks, you can save money, reduce trips to the store, and get better quality than you ever expected. From kitchen essentials to grab-and-go meals, the best things at Costco truly deliver value, flavor, and convenience.
So next time you push that oversized cart down the aisle, remember this guide—and maybe bring a friend. You’re gonna need help loading all that good stuff into your trunk.
FAQs
1. What is the most popular item at Costco?
The rotisserie chicken takes the crown! It’s flavorful, budget-friendly, and ultra convenient.
2. Are Costco’s Kirkland products good quality?
Absolutely. Many Kirkland items are produced by well-known brands and offer amazing quality at lower prices.
3. Can I shop at Costco without a membership?
You’ll need a membership for most purchases, but you can use a friend’s Costco Shop Card or order some items online without one.
4. How can I find the latest deals at Costco?
Check the monthly coupon book, Costco app, or visit their “Hot Buys” section online or in-store.
5. Are Costco groceries cheaper than regular stores?
In most cases, yes—especially when buying in bulk. Just make sure you’ll use what you buy to avoid waste.