6 Costco Buys That Can Stretch a Retirement Budget Further
Despite the fee, a Costco membership almost inevitably pays for itself, especially on a retiree's budget.
For some shoppers, Costco can help lower recurring monthly expenses through discounted prescriptions, bulk staples and lower fuel prices.
From rotisserie chicken to generic medications, here are six Costco buys that can stretch a fixed retirement budget further.
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1. Gas
Filling up the tank still costs more than many retirees expected, especially for shoppers trying to stretch a fixed monthly budget.
Costco gas stations are often priced below nearby competitors, making them a popular stop for members looking to lower recurring transportation costs.
Those savings can add up over time as gas prices continue to fluctuate. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in its latest Consumer Price Index release that the gasoline index rose 5.4% in April.
2. Rotisserie Chicken
Costco’s rotisserie chicken costs about $5.66 through the retailer’s same-day delivery service.
One chicken can often stretch across multiple lunches and dinners, including soups, salads and sandwiches.
For retirees trying to lower weekly food spending, buying prepared staples that can be used in several meals may help reduce takeout and restaurant costs over time.
3. Generic Prescription Medications
Recurring medication expenses can make it harder to stick to a fixed retirement budget, particularly for shoppers filling multiple prescriptions each month.
Costco’s Member Prescription Program offers discounts on many generic medications, which may help members lower ongoing healthcare costs over time.
Members can search participating drugs and pricing through Costco’s website, helping shoppers get a better idea of prescription costs before heading to the pharmacy.
4. Costco Travel Packages
Travel spending often becomes a larger part of retirement budgets as people spend more time visiting family, taking vacations or booking longer trips throughout the year.
Costco Travel offers vacation packages, rental cars, cruises and hotel bookings that bundle several expenses together in one purchase.
Some packages also include extras like resort credits, airport transportation or Costco Shop Cards, which may help travelers get more value from trips they were already planning to take.
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5. Kirkland Signature Bath Tissue
Household staples are easy to overlook because they are smaller purchases made over and over throughout the year.
Costco’s Kirkland Signature bath tissue costs $25 and comes in a 30-roll pack, which may help retirees reduce the number of repeat household shopping trips each month.
Buying frequently used essentials in larger quantities can also help smooth out recurring monthly expenses on a fixed budget.
6. Kirkland Signature Coffee Pods
Coffee drinkers can go through K-Cup pods faster than expected, especially in households brewing multiple cups a day.
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Organic Breakfast Blend K-Cup Pods cost about $45 for a 120-count box, which may help lower the cost per cup for retirees making coffee at home.
Buying larger coffee packs may also help reduce repeat grocery trips and the cost of picking up smaller coffee purchases throughout the week.
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This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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