8 Easy Ways to Shop at Costco Without a Membership

Membership fees make up almost 75% of Costco’s profits, so it makes sense that the warehouse club giant has launched a new campaign to prevent non-members from skirting around the system.

Even with these new measures, it’s still possible to shop at Costco without a membership card. Here are some great Costco hacks so you can do so.

This hack is for members only. Rather than needing to carry your physical Costco card to get into the warehouse — you can download the Costco app and get a digital card.

Your digital card can be used in the warehouse and at the gas pump. You may be asked by a warehouse employee to show your digital card just like your physical card upon entering.

This works like a gift card but must be purchased by an active Costco member. Once you have the Shop Card, you can enter the warehouse store and shop like a regular member. Shop Cards purchased online are limited to $500 each. You can reload Shop Cards at any warehouse location for up to $2,000.

You can also use Costco Shop Cards at the Costco gas stations and take advantage of the discounted pricing. You will need an attendant to authorize the purchase first, but then you can pay with your Shop Card.

According to Costco.com, members are allowed to bring up to two guests with them while shopping at the warehouse. Only Costco members will be allowed to check out, though.

If you’re planning out purchases, you’ll need to make arrangements with your family member or friend, either by having them pay and then you pay them back or by bringing cash.

Costco allows non-members to shop on its website. Non-members will be subject to a 5% increase in prices, and they won’t be able to access “members-only” items. Just be aware that Costco’s online prices may be higher than what you would pay in the store, even on identical items. 

Local laws in some states prevent Costco from limiting alcohol sales to just its members. When you head to the checkout, you’ll need to let the cashier know you are not a member and are only purchasing alcohol. You might need supervisor approval, so it may take a few minutes to complete the sale.

Here are the states where you can buy alcohol without needing a membership card:

• Arizona
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Hawaii
• Indiana
• Kentucky
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• New York
• Texas
• Vermont

Non-members are welcome to use the Costco warehouse pharmacy for their prescriptions. Costco also offers online pharmacy options, where you can order online and have the medication shipped to your home.

Standard shipping is free, which is a great option if you don’t want the hassle of heading into the warehouse.

Anyone can make an appointment with the in-house optometrist at Costco, members and non-members alike. Costco also accepts most optical insurance plans. However, if you get a new vision prescription and want to buy new glasses or contacts, you’ll need a membership card.

Instacart is a shopping and delivery service that non-members can use to get same-day purchases delivered from Costco without needing a membership. This option isn’t available for alcohol or prescription purchases.

Instacart prices are typically higher; some items are 15% or more than in-store pricing. You’ll also pay a service fee and delivery fee charged by Instacart. Plus, you’re asked to tip your delivery person. You’ll get your Costco order delivered right to your front door, and this is the only same-day grocery delivery option at Costco for both members and non-members.

While it’s possible to shop at the warehouse without a membership card, you may be limited in the offerings available to you or subject to higher prices. Costco does not offer free shopping passes or a day pass for you to “try before you buy.”

But Costco has a satisfaction guarantee on everything it sells, including memberships. If you’re not happy with your membership or any other product, you can return it for a full refund. And when you shop at Costco, don’t forget to use the right cash back credit card.