One Way to Get Costco Prices Without Buying a Membership

Low prices aren't the only reason people are loyal Costco shoppers. However, your personal finances are certainly a good reason to consider a membership. That little card gets you all the Kirkland Signature you can stand!

Of course, if you're more interested in name brands than store brands, you may still be able to get those Costco prices without forking over the membership fee. How? Price matching!

Some stores will meet -- or occasionally beat -- competitors' advertised prices. Often, all you need is the ad and you can get an instant savings at the register.

Nine retailers that price match Costco

Many retailers specifically exclude warehouse stores and/or stores that require a membership to shop at, which means Costco is out of the running. However, some pretty major retailers will let you price match Costco:

• Dyson
• Kohl's
• Target
• JCPenney
• PetSmart
• Staples
• Best Buy
• GNC
• Tractor Supply Co.

Avoiding membership fees isn't the only reason to price match at another retailer. You can also avoid Costco's Visa-only credit card policy to maximize your credit card rewards. Plus, you can take advantage of store loyalty programs.

How to find store price-match policies

Want to know if your favorite retailer price matches? You can usually find the info online with a quick search using the name of the store and the term "price match." Alternatively, pop into a local store and ask the customer service associates.

Some stores will have a list of retailers they specifically price match. Others will have a list they specifically don't price match. And, as noted above, many stores will exclude warehouse stores or stores that require a membership.

Additionally, retailers may have certain requirements for price matching, such as the advertised sale price being available at a local store within a certain distance. Read the fine print to be sure your item qualifies.

Other ways to shop Costco without a membership

If your items aren't available elsewhere or otherwise can't be matched, you may have to give up -- or find another way to get it from Costco. Here are a few ways to shop at Costco without paying for a membership:

• Go with a friend: Costco has more than 120 million members, so there's a good chance you know someone who already has a membership. Plan a shopping date, hotdogs on you!
• Get a Costco Shop Card: These Costco store gift cards can only be purchased by members, but if you can get your hands on one, you can have full access to shopping your local Costco warehouse (at least as long as your gift card holds out).
• Shop Costco.com: Some items on Costco.com can be purchased without a membership, though there's an upcharge that may make the deal less valuable.
• Use the satisfaction guarantee: If push comes to shove, you can "trial" a Costco membership. Pay for a regular membership and give it a try. If you don't feel as if it's worth keeping, you can get a full refund thanks to Costco's satisfaction guarantee.

Costco isn't for everyone, but there's no argument it has some great deals. In the end, you may even decide that having a membership works out for you and your family.