12 Little Clever Ways to Get More Out of Your Costco Membership

Are you getting the most out of your Costco membership and maximizing how much money you can save?

Sure, you stock up on pantry staples or frozen items when you head to the warehouse retailer. But you may be overlooking some other money-saving perks of shopping at Costco.

So next time you head out to the warehouse, take advantage of these clever ways to maximize your membership.

Costco has an excellent prescription drug program for its members. It allows them to get great prices on their medications at Costco and thousands of network pharmacies.

You also get other perks, such as mail delivery of your medication and automatic refills. These benefits add up and are some of the many smart shopping hacks at the warehouse retailer.

Costco can also save you money on prescriptions for your pets, so don't forget to look for deals on medication for your furry friends.

Check out Costco Travel if you are planning a trip somewhere special. You can book hotel rooms, flights, and rental cars at a discount using your Costco membership.

Using the retailer's travel site also can get you other perks, such as meal credits and 2% back on travel purchases if you're an Executive member.

A popular Costco hack is its well-known food court. For example, a Costco constant is the hot-dog-and-a-drink deal, which costs only $1.50.

Next time you're at Costco and your house needs dinner, swing by the food court before you start shopping to put in an order for a Costco pizza. By the time you check out, the pizza will be hot and waiting for you.

Gift cards can be great presents in a pinch, so check out the options at Costco. You can often pick up gift cards that are worth more than their price.

These discounted gift cards are also a great option if you're retired and living on a fixed income, or are simply trying to save money at any age.

Gas prices are high right now, but Costco offers a great way to save on fuel.

The Costco gas station typically offers fuel that is a little cheaper per gallon than what you pay at other local gas stations. Over the course of a year, those savings can really add up.

Costco has some great deals on electronics, and the retailer adds up to two years of extended warranties to your new purchases.

Costco's extended warranties cover items such as televisions, computers, major appliances, and more. So check with the retailer to see what kind of coverage you can get.

Do you wear glasses or contacts? You may be able to get a good deal on new eyewear through Costco. The retailer carries contacts and frames through Costco Optical.

Some Costco locations may also have doctors on site for vision screenings. Check out your local Costco for details.

Costco may be a good option if you're worried about rising costs for your homeowners or car insurance.

The warehouse retailer could get you a better price on these types of insurance coverage. Costco's Executive members can also get additional benefits, such as roadside and home lockout assistance.

It can be frustrating to go to a dealership and haggle for the best price on a car. So talk to Costco instead and make your membership work for you.

The Costco Auto Program allows you to get the car you want from a local dealer without negotiating a price. Instead, check in with Costco and let the retailer lock in a price for you. Then, buy your car with less hassle.

You could spend a huge chunk of money buying a cake for your next event or celebration. Or you can pick up a cake from Costco.

The warehouse retailer has plenty of sheet cakes to choose from, and you might be able to get one decorated to your specifications for less than what you would pay at a typical bakery.

Costco sells many products under its Kirkland Signature brand, including alcohol. The retailer also carries exclusive wines.

Costco's wine and spirits have a reputation for being just as good as the name-brand versions of these drinks, and you may pay less for the Kirkland Signature versions.

If you buy an item that you end up not liking, Costco still has you covered.

The retailer's generous return policy allows you to return most items — even without a receipt — for a refund.

The retailer allows you to try new things without worrying about not liking them.

Costco is a great place to save money, especially if you know some of the best Costco hacks (including, but not limited to, those on this list).

Taking advantage of Costco perks is a fantastic way to get the items you need while sticking to your budget.

You might even find that your budget is in a better position by the end of the year if you take better advantage of perks like these.