15 Most Annoying Things About Shopping at Costco (Everyone Agrees)

Costco has many fans who love to save money shopping with their bulk buys. But there are also things that can bug customers at their local warehouse retailer.

Are you one of those Costco shoppers who has some complaints about Costco? See if your Costco criticisms are on this list.

Parking

Costco is famous for its great deals on plenty of different items like food, clothes, and seasonal items. But does it seem like the stuff inside Costco is big while the parking lot outside is small?

You wouldn't be alone in your complaints about Costco's parking lots being too busy or making it difficult to find a good spot.

Samples

Samples are delicious at Costco, but they do come at a cost.

Sometimes, you may test something that you think is delicious and end up putting it in your cart, pushing your purchases over your budget limit.

You also may want to skip a particular sample only to be stuck behind a crowd clamoring for the latest taste of something when you're just trying to get to the back of the store for the rotisserie chicken.

Limited food court menu

Costco offers various options at its worldwide food courts, such as poutine in Canada or tteokbokki in South Korea.

So why does it feel like your local Costco only has a few items to choose from?

Sure, the hot dog deal with a drink for only $1.50 is a great option, but if you're looking for something to satisfy everyone's cravings, you might not find that at your local Costco food court.

Changing items

You may find a unique item on the shelves of your local Costco and try it out to discover you enjoy it immensely. And then you can't find it again.

Costco tries to keep certain staples in stock while trying new things on its shelves. But sometimes, what was once a great find becomes a hard-to-find option on your next visit.

Lack of variety

Bulk items take up plenty of space on Costco's shelves, which can be great if you're buying large quantities of something. But it also means that Costco can't take up shelf space with the variety you can find at your local grocery store.

So you may be disappointed when you only have one option for ketchup or two choices for pasta sauce.

Weekend shoppers

Costco is open seven days a week, but sometimes, the only time you can get there is on the weekends.

Unfortunately, that's also the only time for plenty of other Costco customers, creating long waits at the food court or big crowds in the aisles waiting for the latest samples.

Big carts

Everything is bigger at Costco, from the big containers of laundry detergent to the big bags of chips and the big cases of diced tomatoes.

The carts are also bigger to accommodate all the bulk items you need. However, they're a big pain to push around or maneuver through the crowds waiting in front of a sample table.

However, this may be the price that Costco shoppers have to pay if they want to buy things bigger.

Showing your membership card

You're excited to start your Costco run and pick up everything on your list or try some new samples.

But you have to dig your Costco card out of your purse or wallet first and show it to gain entry into the store. Then, you must remember which pocket you put it in to get it back out when you check out.

One option that could help you out is saving your membership info in the Costco app on your phone so you don't have to worry about digging out your physical card.

Produce in bulk

There are some great items to buy in bulk at Costco, like frozen foods or non-perishable items.

But produce may not be your best bet if you aren't sure how long it will take you to finish it. So take a good look at pears or bananas and decide if you really need a bulk amount of them.

You may be better off getting a smaller quantity at another store, but that also means you'll have to visit another store.

No coupons

Costco has deals on all kinds of items on its shelves, and you can save on groceries by buying them in bulk at the low rate that Costco negotiates with its providers.

That's one of the reasons why Costco won't accept your coupons. Instead, if you're looking for extra savings, check your email or mailbox for promotions that Costco sends to its members.

Long checkout lines

Costco does try to get its check-out lines moving with workers who are well-trained when it comes to ringing up bulk items. But even the best cashiers can get swamped with weekend crowds or shoppers with carts stuffed with items.

It may be a better idea to carve out some time during the week, take advantage of same-day delivery from Instacart, or order items like toilet paper or paper towels for delivery.

Costco's website

Costco's website may leave some members wishing for just a bit more when it comes to what they can find online.

The website has separate pages for items that can be shipped and same-day delivery items from your local store.

It can also be difficult to check online and see if Costco has something in stock, so you may be going into the store not knowing if that location has what you need.

Sheet cake availability

Costco used to have some great sheet cakes in its bakery department that you could quickly swing by and pick up for an office birthday or a party for family and friends.

But those days are gone, and you'll have to be ready to plan in advance if you want one of Costco's famous sheet cakes.

It might even require you to go to Costco in person and order a sheet cake, as the retailer doesn't have an online order option.

No fitting rooms

Costco has a good variety of clothing that changes depending on the season, with sweaters in the winter and shorts and T-shirts in the summer.

But if you aren't familiar with a brand or in between sizes, you're on your own, as Costco doesn't have fitting rooms to try on clothing.

The good news is that Costco has a generous return policy, so you can easily bring it back if you try it on at home and find you don't want it for any reason.

Limited credit card options

Costco trips can get expensive when you're buying in bulk, which is why it's helpful to have a credit card in your wallet.

However, Costco is particular about which cards it accepts for purchases. Make sure you have the right ones with you so you don't get stuck with a cart full of items and no way to pay.

Bottom line

While Costco offers the thrill of discovery and bulk bargains, remember a dash of pre-shopping prep can unlock its true potential.

Pack patience, a strategic list, and your best cash back credit cards — your wallet and your taste buds will thank you.