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While most retailers tack on 25-50% extra on products to make a profit, Costco keeps its markups lower than 15%, ensuring that its members pay low prices. And some deals are even better. Here are Costco's "best deals," according to superfans on Reddit. Not already a Costco member? You can apply here.
Prices and availability are subject to change.
Related: Costco Superfans Reveal Their Favorite Kirkland Brand Liquor
For most consumers, Costco's gasoline savings are so steep that they more than compensate for the retailer's $60 membership fee. What's more, Costco's gasoline is good for your engine thanks to its additives and detergents.
Related: Here’s Why Costco’s Cheap Gas is Good for Your Engine
The Costco bakery's cheap croissants are a cult favorite among members and workers, with one superfan calling them "intoxicating." A dozen of the buttery baked goodies costs just $6, or 50 cents per croissant.
Most Costco's have an optical department, offering eye exams, contacts, and prescription glasses. Anyone can visit the optical center for an eye exam, though its products are reserved for members. One Redditor claims they saved $600 by getting glasses at Costco.
If you find yourself in sneezing fits every February, consider picking up a year's supply of allergy pills at Costco for less than $10. A bottle of 600 tablets of Kirkland-brand antihistamine sells for just $8.
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Before you do your holiday baking, be sure to grab some vanilla extract from Costco, which costs around $10. One Redditor writes that they "couldn't believe how cheap" it is. Vanilla beans are also a great deal at Costco, another superfan adds.
When Costco starts baking its pumpkin pies in the fall, members swarm the bakery to snatch up the humungous 11-inch pies. While we found the pie lacking, it is undoubtedly a good deal at just $6.
Related: Video: Time Lapse Shows Costco Shoppers Snapping Up Pumpkin Pies
Thai jasmine rice should be a pantry staple if you're a Costco member, as bags sell for $25, or around $1 per pound. "The Costco rice is really forgiving if you accidentally add too much water," a superfan adds.
A bottle of maple syrup can cost more than some wines. Luckily, pancake and waffle lovers who shop at Costco can snag a bottle of the liquid gold for just $15.
With its blend of aged parmesan cheese, labor-intensive pine nuts, and countless leaves of basil, imported pesto can be a luxury for some shoppers. That said, Costco sells a large 22-ounce jar of Genovese pesto for just $11, or around 50 cents an ounce.
Costco's legendary rotisserie chicken can feed a small army for just $5. The loss leader is among the store's most economical food items and is perfect for a quick, affordable meal.