Can Anyone Go To Costco? Membership Access, Guest Privileges, And Shopping Tips [Updated On: September 2025]

To shop at Costco, you need a membership. Individuals aged 16 and older can apply. Non-members can buy online with extra fees. A Costco cash card lets non-members shop. However, starting April 2024, you must have a membership for all purchases, including food court access. Proof of residency is needed to apply.

Costco membership levels include Gold Star and Executive. Gold Star members can access all locations, while Executive members enjoy added benefits, such as cashback on purchases. Memberships require an annual fee, but they can be worthwhile for frequent shoppers.

When shopping at Costco, consider a few tips. First, make a list to avoid impulse purchases. Secondly, check for seasonal sales and promotions. Lastly, review the return policy, which is generous and allows for hassle-free returns.

Understanding Costco’s membership access and guest privileges is essential. It opens the door to benefits that can help you save money. As you prepare for your visit, knowing these details will enhance your shopping experience and allow you to make informed decisions about your membership options. Next, we will explore the benefits of being a Costco member in more detail.

Table of Contents

What Are the Membership Requirements to Shop at Costco?

To shop at Costco, an individual must hold a membership. Membership is available to both individuals and businesses, and it involves an annual fee.

The main membership types and requirements are as follows:
1. Individual Membership
2. Business Membership
3. Executive Membership
4. Membership Fees
5. Age Requirement

To elaborate on each point:

Individual Membership:
Individual membership permits a single person to shop at Costco. This type of membership allows individuals to access all Costco locations and online shopping. It typically includes a card that the member must present upon entering the store.
Business Membership:
Business membership is available for companies and organizations. This membership allows the primary account holder to purchase items for business use. It also allows the business to add authorized users on the same membership, enabling multiple employees to shop.
Executive Membership:
Executive membership offers additional benefits compared to standard memberships. Members receive a 2% cashback reward on eligible purchases. This membership is ideal for frequent shoppers or businesses that wish to maximize savings.
Membership Fees:
Costco charges an annual fee for membership. The standard individual membership fee is typically around $60. The business membership may also be priced similarly, while the executive membership is usually around $120.
Age Requirement:
Members must be at least 18 years old to apply for a membership. Identification is required to verify age and identity when registering.

Costco’s membership structure allows for flexible shopping options tailored to individual consumers or businesses.

Who Can Purchase a Costco Membership?

Anyone can purchase a Costco membership if they are at least 18 years old. This includes individuals, families, and businesses. Costco offers different types of memberships, such as a Gold Star membership for individuals and a Business membership for companies. Members can access all warehouse locations and shop for a wide range of products at discounted prices. Additionally, online membership purchases are available for convenience.

What Types of Memberships Does Costco Offer?

Costco offers two main types of memberships: Gold Star Membership and Executive Membership.

Gold Star Membership
Executive Membership

Understanding Costco memberships can help potential members choose the option that best fits their shopping habits and lifestyle. Each membership type offers unique benefits and distinctions.

Gold Star Membership:
Gold Star Membership provides basic access to Costco warehouses and online shopping. This membership is suitable for individuals and families who want to purchase items at wholesale prices. As of 2023, the annual fee for this membership is $60. Gold Star members enjoy access to a vast selection of products, including groceries, electronics, and home goods, all available at discounted prices compared to retail stores.
Executive Membership:
Executive Membership enhances the Gold Star offer with additional benefits. This membership costs $120 annually and provides members with a 2% reward on eligible purchases, up to $1,000 per year. This option is ideal for frequent shoppers who wish to maximize savings over time. Executive Members also receive exclusive discounts on select Costco services, such as insurance and travel.

In summary, Costco presents two distinct membership types, with the Gold Star Membership focusing on basic access and the Executive Membership providing enhanced benefits and rewards.

Can Non-Members Shop at Costco with a Guest?

Yes, non-members can shop at Costco with a guest. However, the guest must be accompanied by a member during the visit.

Costco allows members to bring guests to shop. The membership is required for purchases, so guests cannot check out alone. This policy encourages potential members to explore the store and its offerings. Additionally, guests benefit from the wholesale prices and exclusive products available at Costco. However, guests must remember they cannot access certain services, like obtaining a membership card or making purchases via self-checkout.

What Are the Guest Privileges for Non-Members at Costco?

Non-members can visit Costco as guests but with limited privileges compared to members.

Guest shopping allowed
Limited access to certain items
No online shopping
Ability to use a member’s guest pass
Restrictions on membership purchases

The privileges granted to non-members at Costco highlight their options and limitations when visiting the store.

Guest Shopping Allowed:
Guests can shop at Costco only if accompanied by a paying member. This arrangement allows non-members to access the store’s wide variety of products, including groceries, electronics, and household goods. However, guests must check in with a member at the entrance to gain access.
Limited Access to Certain Items:
Guests often encounter limitations regarding specific items that are only available for purchase by members. For example, some wholesale deals may be reserved exclusively for those with a membership, which can affect the overall shopping experience. This restriction might influence non-members’ opinions about whether frequent visits are worthwhile.
No Online Shopping:
Non-members cannot shop online at Costco’s website. This limitation means guests must visit a physical location for any Costco-related purchases. It presents a challenge for those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, especially when considering time and travel costs.
Ability to Use a Member’s Guest Pass:
Members can provide their guest pass to a non-member, allowing that individual to shop without being accompanied. This arrangement benefits the member by allowing them to share Costco’s offerings with friends or family. However, non-members will still receive limited privileges compared to active members.
Restrictions on Membership Purchases:
Non-members are not entitled to any benefits that a member might enjoy, such as special discounts or promotional offers. Furthermore, some services like Costco’s travel or insurance plans are only available for members. These restrictions can deter potential customers from considering membership in the future.

Understanding these privileges can help non-members make informed choices when visiting Costco. It emphasizes the value a membership offers while allowing guests a taste of the shopping experience.

How Many Guests Can Members Bring to Costco?

Costco members can bring up to two guests per visit. This policy allows members to share their shopping experience with family and friends. Typically, guests must enter the store with the member and must wait for the member at the checkout if they decide to shop independently.

In practice, this means if a member goes shopping, they can bring along one or two people. For example, a family of four can visit Costco if one adult is a member and they bring along a spouse and child as guests. However, if a member wants to bring more than two guests, only two will be allowed to enter with them at a time.

Several factors can influence the guest policy. For instance, during promotional events or special sales, Costco may restrict guest access to manage store capacity. Additionally, some Costco locations may have different policies based on local regulations or operational needs.

In summary, Costco members can bring two guests per visit. This policy promotes shared experiences among members while balancing store capacity. For those interested, it may also be useful to explore Costco’s membership options, including benefits that come with business memberships or executive memberships.

What Are the Benefits of Having a Costco Membership?

The benefits of having a Costco membership include access to savings on bulk purchases, exclusive member-only deals, various services, and rewards programs.

Savings on Bulk Purchases
Exclusive Member-Only Discounts
Additional Services
Rewards Programs
Quality and Variety of Products

Having noted these benefits, it is essential to explore each point in detail to understand their significance fully.

Savings on Bulk Purchases: Costco membership provides significant savings on bulk purchases. Members can buy items in larger quantities, which often leads to lower prices per unit. A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) in 2021 found that shoppers could save up to 20% on grocery items when purchasing in bulk at warehouses like Costco compared to traditional grocery stores. For instance, a member can buy a pack of paper towels or detergents at a much lower price by purchasing in bulk.
Exclusive Member-Only Discounts: Costco frequently offers discounts and promotions exclusively for members. These deals can include reduced prices on seasonal products, special promotions on electronics, and discounts on select grocery items. A report by ValuePenguin (2022) stated that members save, on average, $500 annually through these exclusive discounts. Members can also access special pricing on vacation packages and rental cars, which may not be available to non-members.
Additional Services: Costco membership includes access to various additional services, such as discounted travel, insurance, and auto repair services. Members can take advantage of Costco Travel services, which provide exclusive rates on vacation packages. According to a 2020 report by Squaremouth, Costco Travel offers savings of up to 30% compared to other travel agencies. Additionally, the pharmacy and optical services at Costco often provide lower prices compared to other providers.
Rewards Programs: Costco offers a rewards program for members paying for their membership using the Costco Anywhere Visa Card. Members earn cash back on purchases made at Costco and other locations. The rewards can be significant; members can earn up to 2% cash back on eligible purchases, as reported by credit card expert Robert McCarthy in 2023. This program incentivizes members to shop more frequently at Costco.
Quality and Variety of Products: Costco is known for its high-quality products, particularly in the food and electronics categories. The organization maintains strict quality standards and often sources items from top brands. For instance, tasting events are common at Costco, allowing members to sample foods before purchasing. A 2019 consumer report noted that Costco often ranks highly in customer satisfaction surveys for its quality and selection compared to other retailers.

These benefits collectively make a Costco membership valuable for regular shoppers, families, and individuals looking to save money and access quality services.

Does Membership Provide Discounts or Perks?

Yes, membership often provides discounts or perks. Many membership programs offer exclusive benefits to their members.

These perks typically include reduced prices, access to special promotions, and early sales events. Retailers and services frequently use membership programs to build customer loyalty. Members enjoy savings on purchases, which can lead to significant financial benefits over time. Additionally, some memberships may include free shipping, priority customer service, or loyalty points that can be redeemed for future discounts. These incentives encourage continuous patronage and create a more rewarding shopping experience.

What Additional Services Are Available Exclusively to Members?

Membership in Costco provides access to several exclusive services designed to enhance the shopping experience.

Lower Prices on Bulk Purchases
Access to the Costco Gas Station
Exclusive Member-Only Products
Free Technical Support for Electronics
Insurance Services and Protection Plans
Travel Deals and Discounts
Special Member Offers on Health Services

These services contribute to making Costco membership valuable, but opinions vary on their overall necessity. Some members appreciate the savings and convenience, while others feel the membership fee outweighs the benefits.

Lower Prices on Bulk Purchases: Costco members enjoy significant savings on bulk items. Buying in larger quantities often leads to a lower cost per unit. For instance, a study by IHL Group in 2019 highlighted that members save about 20% compared to traditional grocery stores. This can lead to substantial savings for families or organizations that purchase items frequently.
Access to the Costco Gas Station: Members have the advantage of lower fuel prices at Costco gas stations. These stations offer competitively priced gasoline that can be cheaper than nearby stations. According to GasBuddy, Costco gas typically ranges from 5 to 10 cents lower per gallon than average market prices.
Exclusive Member-Only Products: Costco frequently provides products available only to its members. For example, certain Kirkland Signature products are praised for their quality and affordability, often being considered a premium choice compared to other brands. These exclusive items enhance the value of membership for those seeking unique products.
Free Technical Support for Electronics: Members can access free technical support for electronics purchased through Costco. This support simplifies the process of troubleshooting and maintaining gadgets, demonstrating the retailer’s commitment to customer care. According to a report by Consumer Reports, this service can save consumers time and money in resolving technical issues.
Insurance Services and Protection Plans: Costco members can receive discounted insurance services, including auto, home, and health insurance. Members often find appealing rates from affiliated providers. These options simplify insurance shopping and may provide considerable savings compared to traditional providers.
Travel Deals and Discounts: Costco offers travel planning services with exclusive deals on vacations, cruises, and rental cars. The travel department curates member-only discounts, allowing for significant savings. Members can save an average of $1,000 on vacation packages, according to a report by Expedia.
Special Member Offers on Health Services: Members can access discounted health services, such as dental and optical care. This includes lower prices on prescriptions and lab tests. Services like these support community health while providing monetary savings for Costco members.

These services available exclusively to members underline the value propositions Costco offers, making it a distinctive option in the retail landscape.

How Can Non-Members Access Costco’s Services?

Non-members can access Costco’s services through limited options, including shopping with a member, purchasing a gift card, or utilizing certain pharmacy services.

Shopping with a member: Non-members may enter the store when accompanied by a current Costco member. The member can make the purchase on behalf of the non-member. This allows non-members to take advantage of Costco’s prices without worrying about membership fees.
Gift card purchases: Non-members can use Costco gift cards, also known as Costco Cash Cards. A member must purchase the gift card for the non-member. Once a non-member has a gift card, they can shop at Costco without needing a membership, but they cannot purchase additional memberships or gift cards.
Pharmacy services: Costco offers certain pharmacy services that are accessible to non-members. Non-members can fill prescriptions at Costco pharmacies, which often provide competitive prices. However, these services may vary by location, so it’s essential to call ahead for details.
Online shopping: Non-members can shop online through Costco’s website, but they will incur a 5% surcharge on their purchases. This allows non-members to benefit from Costco’s offerings while avoiding physical store entry.
Special events: Costco occasionally holds special events or promotions that may allow non-members to shop during specific times. These are typically announced in advance and are limited in duration.

Through these options, non-members can experience some of Costco’s services, although full membership provides the most benefits.

Can Non-Members Use Costco’s Pharmacy or Optical Services?

No, non-members cannot use Costco’s pharmacy or optical services. These services are reserved for members only.

Costco restricts its pharmacy and optical services to members to ensure that its low prices and benefits are exclusive to paying customers. This policy also helps maintain the business model of membership-based savings. Members gain access to quality health services at competitive prices, benefiting from the store’s bulk purchasing power. Non-members who need medications or optical care may need to consider alternative pharmacies or optical providers that serve the general public.

Is It Possible for Non-Members to Order Online at Costco?

No, non-members cannot order online at Costco. Costco’s online shopping platform requires a membership to access. Without a membership, individuals can browse products online but cannot complete a purchase.

Costco operates primarily as a membership-based warehouse club. Members pay an annual fee that grants them access to both in-store and online shopping. Non-members may find certain items available for purchase through Costco’s website, but they cannot finalize transactions. In contrast, other retailers may offer online shopping to anyone, regardless of membership status. For example, Sam’s Club allows non-members to shop online with a higher surcharge on orders.

The benefits of having a Costco membership include access to lower prices on bulk items, savings on groceries, and exclusive member discounts. According to Costco’s 2022 reports, members save an average of 20% on everyday products compared to traditional retailers. Additionally, members can use the Costco app for further savings and convenience when shopping.

On the negative side, non-members face limitations on shopping options because they cannot purchase items online. This restriction may affect individuals who prefer to shop from home or those who wish to take advantage of Costco’s bulk pricing. Membership fees may also deter some potential shoppers, especially if they do not shop frequently enough to justify the expense. According to a survey by Consumer Reports in 2021, some consumers feel that the membership cost outweighs the savings for infrequent shoppers.

Individuals considering a Costco membership should evaluate their shopping habits. If you shop for groceries in bulk or frequently purchase household items, investing in a membership could yield significant savings. Alternatively, if you prefer occasional shopping or do not buy in bulk, it may be best to explore other retailers that allow non-member purchases.

How Can Non-Members Make the Most of Their Costco Visit?

Non-members can maximize their Costco visit by planning their shopping strategy, exploring the store’s offerings, and taking advantage of guest privileges.

First, planning a shopping list is crucial. Make a list of necessary items before entering the store. This will help you focus on items that provide the best value. Non-members typically pay higher prices than members for certain items. For instance, a study by Market Watch (2020) showed that members can save up to 20% on bulk items.

Next, non-members can enjoy certain sections of the store that don’t require a membership. This includes the food court, which offers popular items like pizza and hot dogs at low prices. Non-members can also visit the pharmacy, optical, and photo departments. Efficiency in these areas can yield savings on prescription medications and eye care products.

Additionally, non-members can shop with a member. This allows them to access discounted items. A survey by Statista (2021) indicated that 77% of Costco members share their membership with friends and family. This access offers significant savings on larger quantities.

Lastly, non-members should consider visiting during less crowded times. This typically occurs on weekdays during morning hours. Quieter shopping experiences facilitate better exploration of products without the stress of large crowds. Therefore, effectively planning your visit can maximize both the experience and potential savings.

By following these strategies, non-members can make the most of their Costco visit while still enjoying quality products and savings.

What Strategies Can Non-Members Use to Shop at Costco?

Non-members can use several strategies to shop at Costco without a membership. These include shopping with a member, utilizing Costco gift cards, and taking advantage of a one-day shopping pass.

Shop with a Member
Use Costco Gift Cards
Utilize a One-Day Shopping Pass
Purchase Online as a Guest
Explore Local Costco Affiliates

To elaborate on these strategies, we will examine each one in detail.

Shop with a Member:
Shopping with a member allows non-members to enter and buy items. Members can bring guests, and there is no limit to how many guests they can bring. This method is straightforward and effective for those who know a Costco member.
Use Costco Gift Cards:
Costco gift cards, also known as Costco Cash Cards, enable non-members to shop at the warehouse. These cards can be purchased by members, and non-members can use them for any in-store purchases. Using a gift card eliminates the need for a membership.
Utilize a One-Day Shopping Pass:
Costco sometimes offers a one-day shopping pass for non-members. This pass grants access to the store and allows for regular purchases. It is best to check with local warehouses for availability, as these offers can vary by location.
Purchase Online as a Guest:
Non-members can shop on Costco’s website without a membership for certain items. However, there may be a surcharge on non-member purchases. This option is convenient for those who prefer online shopping.
Explore Local Costco Affiliates:
Some Costco locations have affiliate stores, such as gas stations or pharmacies, where non-members can make purchases without a membership. This option allows access to some Costco services without needing to enter the main warehouse.

Using these strategies, non-members can effectively shop at Costco while navigating membership restrictions.

How Can Non-Members Experience Costco Without Committing to Membership?

Non-members can experience Costco in several ways without committing to a membership, primarily through shopping with a guest, using select services, and purchasing gift cards.

Guests have the opportunity to shop with a member. This means non-members can accompany a Costco member when they visit the store. They can shop and enjoy member prices but cannot independently check out. This option provides a practical way to evaluate Costco’s offerings.

Costco allows non-members to access certain services. For example, they can purchase prescription medications without a membership. Research from the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (2020) indicates that approximately 90% of consumers see cost benefits in obtaining prescriptions from retailers like Costco.

Non-members can also use Costco’s online shopping platform. They can shop for a limited selection of items and pay a 5% surcharge. A report from Statista (2021) suggests that online grocery sales are increasingly popular, making this option appealing for non-members.

Finally, non-members can use Costco gift cards, also known as Costco Cash Cards. Current members can purchase these cards, allowing non-members to shop at Costco without needing a membership. A study by Consumer Reports (2022) noted that this method allows non-members to enjoy the benefits of shopping at Costco while also giving the flexibility of limited use.

These options facilitate non-member experiences at Costco while providing a glimpse into the store’s value without the commitment of a full membership.

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