There’s no doubt that Costco is the undisputed mother of bulk-buying heaven. As a seasoned Costco member and parent, I’ve navigated the vast aisles of this wholesale giant to find the most valuable deals and must-have items. So when folks are wondering about the best things to buy at Costco, you better believe I’m happy—THRILLED, even—to deliver in bulk.
Costco has revolutionized how families shop, offering unbeatable prices on bulk purchases. While I still enjoy specialty stores for certain items (miss you, Trader Joe’s), Costco has become my go-to for household essentials, pantry staples, and family-sized portions of our favorite foods. And my favorite surprise: Costco is the absolute best place to shop if you’re in the market for snacks and staples that are high in quality protein.
From budget-friendly meat options to kid-approved snacks, our Costco shopping guide caters to both practical needs and occasional indulgences. Want to truly maximize your membership? Here’s my biggest pro tip: utilize same-day delivery through Costco’s partnership with Instacart. No extra fees, delivery is free, and it’s easy to shop online—a win-win.
Ahead, let’s explore the best things to buy at Costco that offer quality and savings in equal measure.
Keep in mind that stock changes and some items may or may not be available near you. But part of the fun is in the discovery! This list is frequently updated with new favorite finds.
Made with wholesome ingredients like sunflower seeds, coconut, and real cocoa, this cereal is grain-free, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened. Each serving is high in protein and fiber, providing long-lasting energy and satisfaction. It’s perfect if you’re following a paleo or keto diet, or for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty, healthy breakfast. Bonus: my kids love it (and the “chocolate milk” it leaves behind).
IYKYK. No peanut butter tastes better than this. It’s perfect for this peanut butter snack cake or adding to smoothies. Or scooping straight out of the jar.
Chicken stock is a pantry staple when it comes to sauces, pastas, soups, or even livening up rice. Kirkland’s Organic Chicken Stock is delicious on its own, so you know it’ll pump flavor into whatever you’re cooking. Plus, it’s made from simple ingredients—the same simple vegetables and spices I’d use if I were making stock at home.
If you’re lucky enough to be in LA, Austin, or Hawaii, you’ll find these stocked at your local Costco. They’re a personal favorite of mine. They’re great for quesadilla night or a simple lunchtime wrap. We’re obsessed with everything the famed Austin-based brand puts out. And while these tortillas taste purely authentic, they’re also friendly on your digestive system and keep you from feeling weighed down post-meal.
This bread is packed with organic whole grains and seeds, making it a nutritious and filling option for sandwiches and toast. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to add more fiber and protein to their diet.
A solid protein-fueled breakfast is essential for kids (and your) brain health going into a day of school or work. When eggs or yogurt just won’t do, this mix gets the job done. And you can make more than just waffles or pancakes—the muffins and breakfast cookies are perfect to whip up for on-the-go AM meals or quick snacks.
If you’re someone who loves venturing out for your weekend bagel and coffee, I totally feel you. It’s a little luxury that I could always do with more in my life. But if you’re looking for a quick-and-easy option—whose price you can’t beat—Costco reigns supreme. I love that the bagels are water-boiled, making each nice and chewy on the inside while the exterior gets a crispy, golden-brown texture. I’d even go as far to say that their plain bagel is a treat—but the parmesan is my true fave.
You must always leave Costco with something crunchy and snacky in your cart. Simple Mills Almond Flour crackers are truly addicting and buying them in bulk is the most affordable way to go. These crackers pair well with cottage cheese for a healthy snack.
These protein bars are DECADENT and such a treat. Trubar is a woman-founded company and they knew what they were doing when they formulated protein bars that taste like cookie dough and donuts. Favorite Costco find of the year.
Your favorite brands of kombucha in bulk? Yes, please! You can find Bend, Oregon-based Humm Organic Probiotic Kombucha on your local Costco shelves. Personally, even the Kirkland brand’s raw Ginger-Lemonade kombucha is a gut-friendly fave. Pro tip: Use it to make kombucha cocktails and thank me later.
Named best overall in our coconut water taste test, Harmless Harvest is truly refreshing—and Costco sells them six in a box. Essential for summer hydration and so good in smoothies.
These crunchy snacks are a great source of plant-based protein, perfect for on-the-go high-protein snacking or adding to salads for extra crunch and nutrition.
These meat sticks are another convenient high-protein snack, made from grass-fed beef and free from added sugars. They are perfect for a quick energy boost between meals.
These treats offer a healthier take on a classic candy bar, made with organic ingredients and less sugar. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth at the end of the day.
These grain-free chips are perfect for a healthy snack, and the individual packs make them easy to take on the go. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, they are a great alternative to traditional tortilla chips.
These fruit bars are made with organic fruit and vegetables, providing a tasty and nutritious snack option for both kids and adults.
Costco has some delicious options for pizza, both frozen and already baked. It’s definitely a must-have that will please the whole family (and is a great option when you have zero dinner plans).
If you’re looking for a protein-fueled lunch or a quick dinner idea, a single salmon burger packs a whopping 20 grams of protein.
These chicken breakfast links are a high-protein, low-fat option for your morning meal. They are seasoned perfectly and cook up quickly, making them a great addition to your breakfast routine.
These sausages are made from 100% grass-fed beef, free from hormones and antibiotics, and the perfect jumping-off point for a quick dinner. Grill with onions and peppers, slice and serve over pasta, roast on a sheet with veggies—I’ve done it all. Every time they’re easy and delicious.
This tuna is sustainably caught and packed with protein, making it a nutritious and convenient option for meals and snacks—like this tuna avocado toast. The albacore tuna is pole and line caught, ensuring minimal environmental impact and maximum quality. Plus, it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart and brain health.
For a fancier take on a morning pastry, stock up on some delicious, buttery croissants. They’re excellent from the bakery, but the Camille Styles team has even raved about our mutual love of the brand’s frozen croissants. While Costco’s in-house Kirkland brand offers them, my favorite are those from Au Pain Doré (a Montreal-based bakery). Hot tip: Bake yours in the air fryer and brush on a little egg wash before popping them in. You’ll get the perfect golden-brown croissant.
This Icelandic-style yogurt is thick, creamy, and packed with protein. It’s a great choice for breakfast or a snack and can be topped with fruits, nuts, or granola.
One of my favorite Costco deals, this butter is made from grass-fed cows, providing a richer flavor and higher nutrient content. It’s perfect for cooking, baking, and especially for spreading on sourdough toast.
These cheddar slices are rich and creamy, perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or snacking. My kids call it “flat cheese,” and they aren’t wrong. Whenever I want to give them an added protein boost, I pass them a slice.
These organic string cheese sticks are a fun and healthy snack for kids and adults alike. They are made with high-quality organic milk and are a good source of calcium and protein.
This blend of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries is perfect for superfood smoothies, baking, or adding to yogurt. It’s a convenient way to keep a variety of berries on hand all year round.
No matter what your vibe is at home, Pendleton blankets are the perfect way to cozy up your space. If you’re familiar with Pendleton, then you’ll be as blown away as I was to find it on sale at Costco. Perfect for you or as a gift.
It’s not furniture, but it’s a household staple nonetheless. Arguably one of my favorite items to get at Costco is toilet paper in bulk. It usually lasts several months and yes, is unbelievably soft. If you were also traumatized by TP Gate 2020, you’ll never miss an opportunity to stock up at Costco.
… same goes for paper towels. When it comes to Costco, the brand excels in both the little things that make life a luxury (see Pendleton blanket and croissants above) as well as the staples every day requires.
Maintaining a protein-heavy diet can be expensive. However, at Costco, you’ll find tons of affordable options for protein powder and pre-mixed shakes. Vital Proteins are one of my favorite clean protein options, and you can find almost any variety of the popular brand’s protein blends (from marine collagen to collagen peptides and its standard protein powders).
We all know well that once you enter the supplements game, things can start getting expensive, fast. But if you shop at Costco, don’t pass up the opportunity to get solid picks at a fraction of the price of other brands. I take this Vitamin C every day to keep my cells healthy and happy, and my body loves the results.
Lastly, one of the most surprising brands I have found at Costco is La Mer. Think what you will of Kim K, but her skin is flawless—and La Mer skin cream is her fave. So, of course, I’m going to jump at the opportunity to buy it in bulk.
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