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11 Fantastic Costco Buys if You’ve Got Some Wiggle Room in Your Budget

Get the most you can out of your tax refund by taking advantage of these Costco deals and savings.

Things to get at Costco with tax refund featured image
Updated June 6, 2025
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Did you get a decent tax refund this year, or do you have some wiggle room in your budget to help you get some fantastic deals? Discovering you have leftover money is a good feeling, after putting some of it away in savings, of course. 

To make the best use of your extra cash, you may want to plan a trip to Costco, where you'll be able to take advantage of numerous Costco shopping hacks and savings opportunities.

What should you buy at Costco that's going to be well worth the investment?

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Luggage

Courtesy of Costco Samsonite 2-piece Spinner Hardside Luggage Set

One of the best ways to start investing for your future self is the ability to travel. Whether it's across the state or around the world, having a quality piece of luggage (or two) is a must.

Costco typically has a range of on-brand and off-brand options, including popular names like Samsonite, Delsey Paris, and Traveler's Choice. You may even find some great deals and discounts on luggage at Costco.

Air Fryer

Courtesy of Costco Gourmia 8-Quart Digital Air Fryer with Window & Light

Costco stocks some of the best brands in small kitchen appliances. If you've always wanted to have an air fryer (for healthy and quick cooking), this is the ideal time to pick one up.

They run sales on them from time to time, but you'll also have the flexibility of choosing from a range of models and styles, including larger countertop ovens and smaller basket-style air fryers. That's an investment that's sure to get put to good use.

Recliners

Courtesy of Costco Barcalounger Ridgefield Leather Pushback Recliner

Look for Costco sales on recliners throughout the year if you've thought about adding a high-quality chair to your den. They offer both fabric and leather-style models in a range of colors and styles to meet most needs.

Chances are good you'll find some nice upgraded models to buy, including power models, coverings of high-quality leather, and even USB ports.

The quality is excellent, which means you can count on this investment to last for years to come.

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Travel

Игорь Головнёв/Adobe costco travel logo is displayed on a smartphone screen

Take a look at Costco Travel. It's one of the simplest ways to give yourself the much-needed break and sightseeing experience you need.

To make your money go the furthest, check out the limited-time deals, which often offer significant discounts on fantastic locations. You can also book all-inclusive trips through Costco, which could help you save even more.

Freezer

Courtesy of Costco Hisense Garage Ready 17.7 cu. ft. Convertible Chest Freezer/Refrigerator

You may know that buying in bulk at Costco is an excellent way to save money on shopping throughout the year. So, with your "extra" money, buy a freezer for your home.

Costco typically offers appliances from well-known brands like GE, Samsung, and Frigidaire, with some models priced under $400. Once you buy one, you can use it to help store all of those big savings you get throughout the year on meats and veggies.

Cleaning products

Courtesy of Costco Costco Tide Pods Free and Gentle

Costco is noted for its bulk-sized cleaning products, but using your bonus money to buy them up could mean not having to worry about laundry detergent, cleaning supplies, or paper goods all year.

The non-consumable area of Costco, including these aisles, tends to have some of the lowest markups, which translates into big savings for most people. If you have the room, stock up!

Shopping pro tip: This month's best deals

rh2010/Adobe happy women with shopping bags

June is here, and with it comes the start of summer, sizzling sales, and a fresh wave of markdowns. Keep an eye out for savings on:

  • Tools, grills, and outdoor gear

  • Swimwear and summer fashion
  • Patio furniture and garden decor
  • For grocery savings, stock up on seasonal produce like blueberries, corn, and zucchini

While you're soaking up the sun, retailers are already thinking ahead to back-to-school prep, making June a great time to save on summer essentials and snag fresh deals before the crowds catch on.

Mattress

Courtesy of Costco Sealy Queen Mattress

Without a doubt, a good night's sleep is often well worth the investment.

Costco mattresses tend to be on sale in the first quarter of the year. You'll find numerous brands you know, like Sealy, Temper-Pedic, and Sleep Science. Many models are available, including some of the more modern hybrid-style mattresses.

They may even ship it right to your house for you, so you don't have to worry about hauling it home.

Camping gear

Courtesy of Costco CORE Equipment 10-person Lighted Instant Cabin Tent with Awning

Explore the outdoors with the people you love to be around the most when you use your increased budget to buy all of the camping gear you need from Costco.

They have it all, including air mattresses, tents, shelters, camping chairs, and camp kitchens. It's often priced well and available in-store at this time of the year.

When you want your investment to go the furthest, purchase some of the high-quality sleeping bags here, which are priced competitively.

Get a protection plan on all your appliances

Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.

Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.

For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.

Get a free quote

Laptop

Courtesy of Costco HP Pavilion 16

Costco almost always has a discount or deal or two on laptops and computer systems. Their electronics are high in quality, and they often are priced more competitively than other brands.

Lenovo, HP, ASUS, and Dell are just some of the brands you'll find. If it's time to buy a new laptop or pick one up for your child's graduation gift from high school, shop the deals at Costco.

They also have a line of gaming laptops for those who want to have some fun. And, always check out the dollar-off discounts and rebates.

Quick tips: How to save on your grocery bill

Halfpoint/Adobe mother with son outside grocery store

Grocery shopping doesn't have to break the bank when you use the right strategies. Here are three quick tips for reducing food expenses:

  • Buy store brands instead of name brands whenever possible.
  • Always make sure to compare unit prices, not just sticker prices.
  • Join your store's loyalty program so you don’t miss out on member discounts.

Even though something like choosing coupons in your grocery store app can feel like an annoying task, the savings can really add up.

Wine cooler

Courtesy of Costco Wine Enthusiast SommSeries 2 Door Dual Zone Wine and Beverage Center

Many Costco locations are noted for their huge beverage selection and affordable pricing.

If you have extra money, why not purchase a cooler for your home and then fill it with your favorite Costco varieties?

They offer most cooler styles, including under-the-counter coolers, stand-alone coolers, and large, refrigerator-style versions.

Tires

Courtesy of Costco Costco Standard Tires

There are times when you need to be practical. Buying tires at Costco may not sound like lots of fun (unless you're planning road trips and camping adventures), but it's one of the best, smart money moves if you own a car.

Costco nearly always has a deep discount on tires available at their stores, often keeping costs far below what you could expect to pay at most other retailers. These are name-brand tires, too.

Bottom line

Eduardo Barraza/Adobe A Costco storefront

Take a few minutes to consider what you should do with any unexpected extra money that comes your way. Put some in the bank, cater to any needs around the house, and then look for deep discounts on the items you need and want.

By using one of the best cash back credit cards, you can also get more for your money when you shop. 

It's easy to make your money go the furthest it can at Costco.


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