5 Costco Secrets You Need to Know

Shopping at Costco is a great way to save money on everything from food to apparel to paper goods. But if you're new to Costco shopping, it's important to get the inside scoop so you can reap even more savings. Here are a few insider tricks you should know about.

1. You may actually be getting a name brand when you buy Kirkland products

Kirkland is Costco's signature brand, and you'll find it on a wide range of products. You may be hesitant to buy Kirkland-branded food despite the lower price point and ensuing credit card bill. But actually, Kirkland products offer a lot of value. And in some cases, you may not be compromising on your preferred brand at all.

It's a lesser-known fact that some Kirkland items are produced by major brands you're more than familiar with. Some Kirkland coffee, for example, is made by Starbucks -- and it says so on the package. So before you write off Kirkland products, give them a chance -- or at least do some research to see which ones are secretly made by the brands you already love.

2. Items ending in $0.97 are are being offered at even more of a discount

Costco is known for its generally low prices. But it pays to look out for items that end in $0.97. When you see a product with a price tag ending in $0.97, it signifies that it's been marked down from its regular price, allowing you to enjoy even more savings.

3. You can buy gift cards at a discounted rate

Costco sells a variety of gift cards. But one thing you may not have realized is that you can often buy gift cards for less than face value.

As an example, right now, Costco is selling $100 worth of California Pizza Kitchen gift cards for just $69.99. If that's a restaurant you tend to frequent, then that's a deal you may want to jump on.

4. You don't need to clip coupons to benefit from sales

If you're a Costco member, you'll generally get a coupon book in the mail highlighting the items that are on sale each month. But don't worry if you don't remember to clip those coupons or bring your deal book with you. Costco will give you the discounted price at checkout either way, so there's no need to stress or do any extra work.

5. You can return almost anything

Costco is known to be extremely reasonable with its return policy. This means that if you buy a food product that doesn't meet your expectations, you can generally return it for a full refund -- even if it's been partially consumed.

In fact, Costco will take most items back without any hassle whatsoever. But there are exceptions. For electronics, you only get 90 days to make a return. And you can't return alcohol or cigarettes purchased at Costco under any circumstance.

If you're going to pay for a Costco membership, you might as well make the most of it. Keep these Costco secrets in mind so you can reap the most savings and enjoy the most benefits.