10 Weird Discounts You Can Get With Your Costco Membership

Costco memberships unlock everyday savings on groceries, gas, and bulk essentials, but they also provide access to surprising discounts on items you might never associate with a warehouse club. From funeral services to luxury vacations and even new cars, these perks can help members save significantly on high-ticket or unusual purchases. Whether you’re planning a wedding, preparing for emergencies, or shopping for home improvements, your Gold Star or Executive membership opens doors to deals that go far beyond the food court hot dog.

These little-known benefits often don’t require stepping foot in a warehouse, making them accessible online or through partner programs. Maximizing your membership means exploring Costco’s full ecosystem, including travel, auto, and insurance services. Below, we break down 10 weird discounts that prove your $65 annual fee (or $130 for Executive) pays off in unexpected ways.

Make Quick Money to Pay for a Costco Membership

Before diving into the discounts, consider how to cover your membership cost effortlessly. Side gigs and apps let you earn cash quickly for that Gold Star fee. Here’s a comparison of popular options:

These platforms provide flexible ways to fund your membership, turning it into a net positive from day one.

10 Weird Things You Can Buy or Save On at Costco

1. A Casket

Costco’s funeral department offers caskets, urns, and memorial items online, often at prices lower than competitors. The Prime Rose casket, for instance, costs $1,349.99 with free shipping from Costco, compared to $1,549.99 at Amazon or Walmart. These items aren’t stocked in warehouses but ship directly, providing member-exclusive discounts. State laws may restrict sales, so verify eligibility before planning.

This perk appeals to those pre-planning funerals, saving hundreds on dignified options without markups.

2. A Piano

Through partnerships, Costco members access deals on musical instruments like pianos. Online selections include upright and grand pianos from reputable brands, delivered with member pricing that undercuts specialty retailers. Savings come from bulk negotiation power applied to high-end goods, making it feasible to outfit a music room affordably.

3. An Engagement Ring

Costco’s jewelry section extends to diamonds and custom rings. Members report 20-40% savings on engagement rings compared to jewelers, with GIA-certified stones and in-house settings. The no-commission sales model keeps prices low. Executive members earn 2% rewards on these big buys, amplifying value.

4. Your Next Vacation

Costco Travel offers exclusive packages on flights, hotels, cruises, and resorts. Members save up to 40% on luxury getaways, including all-inclusive deals and Disney vacations. Packages bundle perks like car rentals and theme park tickets. Executive perks add extra rewards, making family trips a steal.

5. A New Car

The Costco Auto Program connects members to dealers with pre-negotiated prices on new and used vehicles. Trucks, SUVs, and cars qualify, plus 15% off parts and services at participating centers. No-haggle pricing saves thousands; members often report $1,000-$3,000 below MSRP.

6. Emergency Food Supplies

Costco’s bulk emergency kits and long-shelf-life foods are discounted for members. Think 72-hour survival packs, MREs, and water storage at warehouse prices. Online options ship discreetly, ideal for disaster prep without premium retail costs.

7. Flowers for Your Wedding

Costco sells bulk wedding flowers via its floral department and partners. Roses, orchids, and arrangements cost far less than florists—often 50% off. Members coordinate large orders for ceremonies, with nationwide shipping options.

8. A DIY Shed

Outdoor structures like sheds, gazebos, and playsets are available online. Member pricing shaves hundreds off retail, with free shipping on many. Assembly is straightforward, turning backyard dreams into budget realities.

9. Insurance

Costco partners offer auto, home, pet, life, and health insurance. Switching auto/home saves an average $596 in year one. Vision plans and the Costco Marketplace simplify shopping. Exclusive rates stem from group buying power.

10. Home Sauna

Costco sells infrared saunas and kits online, with member discounts up to 30%. Brands like Dynamic offer full-room setups cheaper than specialty stores, including warranties and delivery.

Is a Costco Membership Worth It?

Gold Star ($65/year) suits casual shoppers; Executive ($130/year) rewards heavy spenders with 2% back (up to $1,250). Break even by saving $5+ monthly on basics or one big purchase. Gas, Kirkland products, and travel amplify value.

• Groceries: Bulk Kirkland items like rotisserie chicken ($4.99) and olive oil save per unit.
• Gas: Often cheapest locally.
• Travel/Services: Exclusive deals recoup fees fast.

Families save hundreds yearly; even singles benefit from occasional bulk buys.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Costco membership levels?

Gold Star ($65/year) includes basic access and household card. Executive ($130/year) adds 2% rewards (up to $1,250).

Do I need to visit a warehouse for these weird discounts?

No, most are online via Costco.com, Travel, or Auto Program.

Are there current membership deals?

New members often get $100 off $200 online + membership, making Gold Star like free + $35.

Can Executive rewards cover big weird buys?

Yes, 2% on caskets, cars, etc., offsets fees quickly.

Are there restrictions on caskets?

Some states limit sales; check details.

How much do members save on insurance?

Average $596/year on auto/home switches.

Is Costco Auto Program nationwide?

Yes, with participating dealers.

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medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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