When it comes to Costco, many consumers’ first associations are the $1.50 hot dog-and-soda combo, the $5 rotisserie chicken, or the endless aisles of oversized merchandise. As one of the world’s most recognizable warehouse retail giants, Costco has long attracted loyal members with its reputation for value and consistently low prices.
What many members don’t realize, however, is that the real value of a Costco membership extends far beyond what’s available inside the store. According to a recent roundup by foreign media, Costco offers at least ten lesser-known membership benefits spanning travel, automobiles, insurance, moving services, healthcare, and home appliances—covering nearly every corner of everyday life.
Below is a detailed breakdown.
1. Costco Travel: member-only vacation deals
Costco Travel is an exclusive booking platform for members, offering everything from theme park packages and luxury cruises to all-inclusive international vacations. Some itineraries even carry the Costco private-label brand Kirkland Signature, which typically signals added perks or deeper discounts.
For example, a 10-day cruise departing from Vancouver, Canada, and visiting popular Alaska destinations such as Skagway and Denali can cost as little as $2,078, including multiple value-added extras. Members who book through Costco Travel can also receive rental car discounts, making it easier to explore like a local.
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2. Costco Next: direct-to-brand online shopping
Costco Next is a members-only online marketplace that allows shoppers to buy directly from brand manufacturers, bypassing intermediaries and often securing lower prices than in-store.
The selection goes far beyond everyday brands. Katy O’Hara, a contributor to the food website Allrecipes, found that a Demeyere 4-quart stainless steel pot with lid from the well-known brand Zwilling was priced at $199.99 on Costco Next—compared to $249.99 on the manufacturer’s own website. The platform’s offerings range from hot tubs and Korean skincare products to, quite literally, coffins.
3. Costco Auto Program: no-haggle car buying
Members in the market for a car can take advantage of the Costco Auto Program, which offers pre-negotiated pricing and eliminates the stress of haggling. The program applies to both new and used vehicles and can include cash incentives, exclusive discounts, and manufacturer rebates.
With a streamlined process and transparent pricing, the service saves time and significantly reduces the pressure often associated with car purchases.
4. Exclusive auto and home insurance discounts
Costco partners with American Family Insurance to provide members with discounted auto and home insurance policies. You don’t need to buy a car through Costco to qualify—membership alone is enough to unlock these savings, helping households reduce recurring expenses.
5. Vehicle maintenance and tire savings
Through the Auto Program, Costco connects members with certified auto repair centers, offering savings of up to $500 per service on routine maintenance such as 30,000-, 60,000-, and 90,000-mile checkups, wheel alignment, and brake repairs.
In addition, most Costco locations operate tire centers that provide deep discounts, free installation, a five-year warranty, and complimentary tire balancing and rotation—comprehensive coverage designed to keep vehicles safe and road-ready.
6. 51% off shutterfly photo products
Members who enjoy turning digital photos into physical keepsakes can receive 51 percent off all Shutterfly products, including photo prints, calendars, and wall art. Orders over $30 also qualify for free shipping.
7. Moving truck and storage discounts
Costco members receive 25 percent off Budget Truck Rental, along with free roadside assistance and an additional driver at no extra cost—an appealing option for anyone planning a move or transporting large items.
Executive Members can unlock even more value, including additional discounts on PODS mobile storage containers, ideal for home moves or major decluttering projects.
8. In-home floor and air duct cleaning
Costco partners with professional cleaning company Stanley Steemer to offer floor cleaning deals: book cleaning for three rooms of the same flooring type—wood, carpet, or tile—and receive one additional room cleaned for free. Book six rooms, and two are free.
Members who schedule air duct cleaning also receive complimentary dryer vent cleaning as part of the package.
9. Prescription drug savings of up to 80%
Through the Costco Member Prescription Program, members can save up to 80 percent on prescription medications. By entering a drug name on Costco’s website, members can compare prices and see potential savings instantly.
The program covers many widely used medications, including Accutane, Ozempic, and Wegovy. Costco pharmacies also sell pet medications and vaccines, extending the savings beyond human healthcare.
10. Free delivery and installation on major appliances
If you’re planning to replace major appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, or dishwashers, buying through Costco can be a smart move. In addition to competitive pricing, purchases include free delivery and installation, and installers will remove old appliances at no extra charge—saving both time and hassle.
