Aug 29, 2026

8 Smart Costco Purchases That Can Cut Your Travel Costs

Written by Gabrielle Olya
|
Edited by Ashleigh Ray
8 Smart Costco Purchases That Can Cut Your Travel Costs

Between higher airfare, rising gas prices and costly airport purchases, travel expenses can add up quickly for Americans planning a vacation.

Fortunately, Costco offers several products and member perks that can help reduce costs before and during a trip.

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Here are eight of the top Costco buys that can save you money on travel.

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  • Price: $69.99

A well-designed carry-on can help you pack more effectively and avoid checking luggage — and the hefty fees that come with it. The Swissgear carry-on expandable spinner is highly rated, with a 4.3-out-of-5-star rating.

"It was the best money I've spent in a long time," wrote one reviewer, noting that it provides a "super-handy cup holder" for between-flight lates and drinks.

  • Price: $39.99

Packing cubes help maximize carry-on space, making it easier to avoid checked baggage fees. This set of eight Mytagalongs packing cubes includes cubes in four different sizes, with mesh covers so you can easily see the contents.

  • Price: $39.99

Airport convenience stores often charge steep prices for charging accessories. Keeping a dedicated travel charger kit can help you avoid those last-minute purchases. The Belkin travel bundle includes a 10K power bank with an integrated USB-C cable, a 30W USB-C wall charger, a USB-C/C cable and a travel pouch.

  • Price: $33.99 for a two-pack

Bottled water at airports, tourist attractions and highway rest stops often costs several times more than at grocery stores. To avoid these upcharges, bring along a reusable water bottle, like this Zulu Powerfill Pro 24-Ounce Stainless Steel Water Bottle, that you can fill up for free.

  • Price: $14.99 for 24 snack packs

Avoid overpriced and unhealthy snacks at the airport or on the road by stocking up on grab-and-go snacks before your trip. These Nature's Garden organic trail mix snack packs are a member favorite, with a 4.6-star rating.

  • Price: Varies

If you're heading on a road trip, it's worth making a stop at Costco to fill up on gas. CNN reports that Costco gas is typically priced at 30 cents a gallon less than at local gas stations.

  • Price: Varies

One of the often overlooked perks of a Costco membership is its rental car discount. Renting a car through Costco Travel’s Low Price Finder helps you find the car you want at a price lower than you'd pay for a standard rental.

  • Price: Varies

Booking your next vacation through Costco Travel can help you save on costs while giving you access to exclusive perks like food and beverage credits, room upgrades and more. Costco Travel packages often bundle hotels, transportation and resort perks into one booking, helping you reduce costs that you might otherwise pay separately.

Whether you want to travel to Hawaii, the Caribbean, Europe or another popular destination, Costco likely has a deal you can use.

Editor’s note: Prices and availability are subject to change. 

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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Written by
Gabrielle Olya
Edited by
Ashleigh Ray