Costco is known for great deals, but that doesn’t mean everything in those giant aisles is actually a bargain. Some items look like smart buys but end up costing more per unit or going to waste before you can finish them. After comparing prices and paying closer attention, I found several products that are not worth the hype and better alternatives that save money without sacrificing quality.
Pre-Made Salads and Meals
The convenience of pre-made salads and pasta dishes is tempting, but you pay a premium for it. Many of these meals cost twice what it would take to make them yourself. Instead, buy the ingredients separately. A big bag of greens, some protein, and your favorite dressing will stretch across multiple meals for less money.
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Name-Brand Paper Products
Toilet paper, napkins, and paper towels are rarely a good deal at Costco unless they are on sale. The store-brand version, Kirkland Signature, performs just as well at a lower cost. If you prefer name brands, you can often find better prices during grocery store promotions or through online bulk deals.
Snack Variety Packs
Bulk snack boxes seem like a good deal, but they usually aren’t. The portions are small and cost more per ounce than full-sized bags. You also get random flavors no one eats. Buy larger packs instead and portion them out yourself at home.
Laundry Detergent Pods
Detergent pods are convenient but come with a higher cost per load. Liquid or powder detergent offers far more washes for the same price. Stick with the Kirkland Signature detergent or grab a large jug of a trusted brand during a sale. You will spend less and make it last longer.
Fresh Berries and Produce
The large containers of fresh fruit can be a good deal until they spoil after a few days. Unless you have a big family or plan to freeze them, the waste outweighs the savings. Buy smaller quantities at your local grocery store or farmers market for fresher, longer-lasting produce.
Cereal and Breakfast Bars
Bulk cereal boxes and granola bars often cost more per ounce than buying them at discount grocers or during weekly sales. They also take up a lot of pantry space. Watch for coupons or buy store-brand alternatives at places like Aldi or Target. The savings are noticeable without losing flavor.
Pet Food
Costco’s large pet food bags may seem like a deal, but the price per pound is often comparable or even higher than other retailers. Brands like Chewy and Petco frequently offer auto-ship discounts that beat warehouse pricing. You will save more and have it delivered right to your door.
Electronics Accessories
Items like HDMI cables, surge protectors, and chargers are marked up significantly at Costco. You can find the same products for less on Amazon or Monoprice. These small tech accessories often perform identically no matter where you buy them, so there is no reason to overpay.
Pre-Portioned Cheese and Deli Meats
Those convenient snack packs of cheese and meat are easy to grab but incredibly overpriced. Buy larger blocks of cheese and slice them yourself. The same goes for deli meats. Buy by the pound and store portions in airtight containers. You will save a surprising amount over time.
Name-Brand Cleaning Supplies
Costco’s cleaning aisle is filled with recognizable brands, but the Kirkland alternatives clean just as effectively for far less. Multi-surface cleaners, dish soap, and disinfecting wipes perform just as well without the inflated price tag. Save your money for the few specialty products that truly make a difference.
Smarter Shopping for Bigger Savings
Costco can absolutely save you money, but only if you shop intentionally. Stick to high-value staples like baking ingredients, frozen foods, and household essentials that truly last. By skipping these overpriced items and knowing where to find better alternatives, you will get more from your membership and spend far less on every trip.
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The article 10 Costco Products That Are Totally Overpriced (and What to Buy Instead) first appeared on Cents + Purpose.