Costco is known for its affordable prices on bulk items and discounts on big-ticket purchases like appliances and electronics.
The catch, of course, is that you must be a member in order to get access to go inside of the warehouse.
Related: Costco Hilariously Messes Up Man’s Birthday Cake Design | Entrepreneur
But now, a slew of TikTokers have found a way around the requirement — buying gift cards to Costco that can be used for purchasing anything inside, even if you’re not a member.
@aminshaykho I guarantee you didn’t know this Costco life hack to get a free membership ? #savemoney #costco #costcofinds #lifehacks ♬ original sound – Amin Shaykho
In a clip that’s been viewed over 6.6 million times, TikToker Amin Shayko shows viewers that flashing a Costco gift card will get you access into the store.
However, it’s to be noted that once inside, you can only spend the amount that’s on the gift card if you aren’t a member.
“For people wanting to do this and you don’t have a membership just know that the total has to be paid by gift card or they’ll refuse your payment,” one user pointed out.
“Just remember if you don’t have a membership your card is worth 10% less because of fees,” another said.
Another video shows a woman explaining the same concept.
@joincheckmate Costco Hack you need to know! #costcohack #giftcardcostco #shoppinghack #checkmatesavings #checkmateapp #joincheckmate ♬ original sound – Checkmate
“Lol Costco employee here,” one user who claimed to work at the warehouse chain said. “Technically yes. but no membership card to return anything. Can’t spend anything over the giftcard cash only at most Costco.”
There are an estimated 830 Costco warehouses worldwide, with about 575 of them in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
Costco did not immediately reply to Entrepreneur‘s request for comment or confirmation.
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Do you need to pick up bulk snacks and household items but don’t have a membership card to get into Costco? Don’t worry, here is a simple hack you can try to get you into the store.
Costco is a membership warehouse where you can buy groceries, clothes, and more in bulk and at discounted prices. Many people like the convenience of having a membership card so they can access the store without worry but what do you do if you don’t have one?
The good news is, you don’t necessarily need a membership card in order to shop at Costco. You just need to know the right way to approach the situation. The key is to be assertive.
When you get to the store, head to the membership counter and politely explain that you’re there to shop and that you don’t have a membership card. Ask if there is any way you can purchase items without one. Most of the time, the customer service representatives behind the counter will be accommodating and direct you to the cash registers where they will process your purchase.
Additionally, many Costco locations will accept major credit cards and debit cards as forms of payment even if you don’t have a membership card. It may be a bit slower than using a membership card but it still works. Many stores also offer a variety of one-day passes that will give you access to the store and let you shop without a membership card.
By following this hack you can easily get into Costco and take advantage of the store’s deals and discounts. So don’t let the lack of a membership card stop you from saving money on bulk groceries and household items. Just be assertive and ask for help and the customer service representatives should be able to assist you.
