What's the Best Time to Go to Costco for Hassle-Free Shopping?

Wondering the best times to shop at Costco for a stress-free experience? We've got you covered. Learn insider tips on avoiding crowds, the optimal hours for fresh finds, and how to navigate holiday rushes.


 

Finding the sweet spot in Costco’s shopping hours could transform your experience.  In this article, I have divulge all the best Costco Warehouse savings tips I have leanred over the years on the specific hours and best days that can turn your routine shopping trip into a delightfully smooth sail, complete with quick checkouts, the best selections, and even things Costco members can get for free.  Spoiler Alert - the perfect time to shop at Costco is between Tuesday and Thursday, arriving between 3 and 4 p.m. 

For Smaller Crowds and Better Parking Spots

Curious about the best time to go shopping at Costco? The store is notably quieter in the mornings from Tuesday to Thursday, just as they open their doors. This not only helps you steer clear of heavy shopper traffic, but also ensures that you get first dibs on fresh produce and high-demand products.

Plus, here’s a secret: some Costco stores might let shoppers in 15 minutes before the official opening time, offering an advantage to those early birds.

If rising with the dawn isn’t your thing, no worries! A trip to Costco around 11 a.m. could still be quite pleasant. By then, the initial morning crowds will have thinned out, and the lunchtime shoppers won’t have descended yet. You’ll also likely find an ample selection of fresh food and can take advantage of product samples before they run out.

For the Freshest Food Selections

If you're aiming for the absolute freshest food and groceries at Costco, timing is key. The best time to head to Costco for fresh produce, bakery items, and other perishables is early in the morning, particularly right after the store opens. This is when the day's fresh stock has just been put out, and you'll have access to the best of what's available.

Weekdays, like a Wednesday morning especially, see the arrival of fresh shipments and restocking of shelves. Costco associates work diligently in the early hours to ensure that the freshest items are available to customers as the doors open. This can include everything from fruits and vegetables to meats and seafood.

For Snacks and Samples

When you think of Costco, samples and snacks probably come to mind first. If you want to get your hands on these treats, plan to shop during peak hours like on the weekends or in the late morning or early afternoon during the week. While it may vary by store, shopping between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. is a good target time. You may even be able to speak with associates at your local store and hone in on when they will be offering them. 

The Worst Times to Shop at Costco

It’s advisable to avoid weekends due to their status as the most hectic days of the week. Shopping on a Friday can be particularly busy with individuals stocking up for weekend necessities and long lines everywhere.

Most shoppers also visit Costco on Mondays. This is because families often replenish goods after the weekend, while businesses gear up for their needs throughout the coming week. The lunch rush also draws crowds, potentially complicating any attempts at executing an expedient shopping trip during these peak periods.

The Best Time to Shop During the Holidays

The holidays are exceptionally busy. With celebrations and parties, Christmas and New Years can be quite chaotic as everyone scrambles to get last-minute gifts and stock up on food. You’ll want to pay close attention to the deals offered during the holidays and act quickly. Do what you can to plan ahead to get there early and maybe even avoid peak times if crowds aren’t your thing. 

Read More: Be sure to also check out our article on Costco vs. Sam's Club vs. BJ's to discover their fees, prices, and membership perks!