Name Brand Items to Buy at Costco

Costco sells both name brand items and Kirkland Signature items. I have written before about the high quality of the Kirkland items, (Kirkland Products: 12 to buy); (More Top Notch Kirkland Products); (Even More High-Quality Kirkland Products)). I have also pointed out that many of them are actually produced for Costco by name brand companies (Who makes Kirkland products? (Part 1 of 3)); (Who makes Kirkland products? (Part 2 of 3)); (Who makes Kirkland products? (Part 3 of 3))). Sometimes the items are the same as those sold in the grocery stores whereas others are tweaked and sold as “Costco exclusives” (e.g., Ancient Grains Granola (Product Review: Kirkland Ancient Grains granola)). I have also written about some items sold at both Costco and grocery stores actually being better deals at the grocery stores (Costco vs. Supermarkets); (Items to buy at Costco vs. Grocery Store)). Most items that my family buys at Costco are Kirkland items. However, I found this article about items found at both types of stores that are almost always better deals at Costco. The author points out that, of course, despite the price, there are other factors to consider such as whether one can finish an item before it spoils, and whether people have the storage space for larger packages of items that last longer on shelves.

25 Name-Brand Items to Buy at Costco vs Grocery Stores to Save Money

1. Hebrew National Hot Dogs

One item that is less expensive at Costco than at grocery stores is Hebrew National Hot Dogs. The author points out that they freeze well, thus making it a good item on which to stock up, given the savings. They are sold in a four-pack of 12 hot dogs.

Before becoming kosher, my family still insisted on kosher hot dogs. At the time, the most common brand was Hebrew National, with the slogan, “We answer to a higher authority”. I don’t know if the certification has changed or if I am just more informed but the current certification is controversial. I no longer eat hot dogs anyway but I know that these always has a good reputation and my family did have success freezing them before grilling.

2. Kraft Mac & Cheese

Another name brand item on which to save money by buying at Costco is Kraft macaroni and cheese. As this meal is shelf stable, if one has the pantry space, it makes sense to save money and buy the large package (18 boxes) at Costco.

Until I got into high school, this was one of the only brands of macaroni and cheese available. It was a delicious meal and classic. Once I got into high school and discovered Annie’s white cheddar variety, I switched to that. However, I know many are loyal to Kraft. Definitely a convenient option to have on hand and often one of first meals that children/teens learn to prepare for themselves.

3. Chobani Less Sugar Greek Yogurt Cups

The article mentions saving money by buying these yogurts at Costco. They are sold in a variety pack of 16 individual 5.3-ounces cartons of yogurt in four different flavors (flavors seem to vary across stores).

I have written about these yogurts before and how they are less expensive at Costco than even when on sale at grocery stores (now that the lowest prices I’ve seen for sales over the past few years has been higher than the Costco regular price even when not in the coupon book; (Items to buy at Costco vs. Grocery Store). Additional factors to consider are storage space (although, given how far out expiration dates often are for yogurt, it seems quite feasible to eat all 16 before they spoil), and whether one likes all of the flavors.

4. Nutella

Another item on the list is the much beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread. Apparently, this relatively expensive item is a better deal at Costco. It is sold at Costco in a two-pack of 33.5-ounce jars.

I have written about Nutella before (Costco Deals for June/July)

5. Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Bars

A treat that can be quite pricey at grocery stores but less expensive at Costco is these high-quality ice cream bars. A box at Costco contains 15 bars.

These are not on my list because I don’t eat novelties often but they are a very good deal. I am amazed when I see how expensive the bars are in the three-or four-pack at the grocery store. There are certainly less expensive store brand versions but, for people committed to this high quality brand, Costco is the place to buy them. Actually, I wonder if my lack of enthusiasm for ice cream bars despite my love of ice cream, is that I have not had a really good quality bar.

6. Magic Spoon Fruity Cereal

The author put this high-protein, Keto-friendly cereal on the list. She points out that it has health benefits but is quite expensive. Therefore, buying it at Costco saves money. Costco sells it in packages of two nine-ounce bags.

I mentioned cereal as an item that is often found on sale at grocery stores, often resulting in lower prices than at Costco (Costco vs. Supermarkets).. However, I have noticed that it does not tend to be the case for the more expensive, specialty (e.g., organic; protein) varieties. Therefore, Costco does seem to be place for this cereal. The bag size also seems really small, so getting two at once is more convenient. I don’t know much about this brand but sounds like it may be worth a try, as I admit to sometimes wanting a less sweet version of my old favorite sugary cereals.

7. Rao’s Marinara Sauce

This pasta sauce is another name brand item that the author suggests buying at Costco. Sold at lower prices at Costco than at grocery stores, it is sold at the former in two 28-ounce jars.

As I have mentioned, unfortunately, this sauce is not kosher because it gets a great reputation and smells great. When I first saw the grocery store price, I could not believe people would pay so much when other brands were so much less. Buying it at Costco is a good deal, and it seems to be a frequent flyer in the coupon book. 

8. Dawn Powerwash

The first nonedible item on the list is this cleaning product. The author recommends buying several at a time to save even more money. It is sold at Costco in a 21.5-ounce bottle and comes with refills of the same size (for less waste).

I am not loyal to name brand cleaning products so I would likely only buy a more expensive version of on sale.

9. Duracell Powerboost Batteries AA

Batteries made the list of items that are less expensive at Costco than at grocery stores. The author points out that Duracell has been rumored to make the Kirkland batteries as well but that many people prefer to buy the name brand version. Costco sells these batteries in a pack of 40.

Batteries are one of those items that seem to always be in my house, despite my never buying them. Therefore, I don’t think about brand. I just use what I find. I’d be curious to know if people have noticed a difference between these batteries and Kirkland ones.

10. Tide with Downy Liquid Detergent

The article includes this detergent as an item to buy at Costco. It is sold in a 170 fluid-ounce bottle.

Again, not picky with cleaning products.

11. Ziploc Variety Pack

Costco sells these Ziploc bags at lower prices than grocery stores. The variety pack (quart; gallon) contains a total of 166 bags.

I have tried a variety of storage bags over the years. Ziploc does seem to be the highest quality in terms of sturdiness and strength of the “zipper.” However, with the exception of those bags without the zipper that just have the gold over top, I am not particular about the bags. I’m addition, because I’d prefer not to waste the quart or gallon bags on small items, I’d prefer it if this variety pack also contained the sandwich bags. 

12. Kodiak Cakes Pancake and Waffle Mix

The author suggests buying this mix at Costco rather than at grocery stores. She also mentions that it can be used for baking cookies and muffins. Costco sells the mix in packages of three 24-ounce pouches.

I don’t know much about this brand, except that it is promoted for its nutritional benefits, mainly protein. Like most specialty items, I imagine it can be expensive in grocery stores. Therefore, it seems like a good purchase at Costco.

13. Claritin

Like the batteries, the author points out that, although the Kirkland variety of medications is likely cheaper than name brand versions, many people may prefer to stick with name brand. Even for that name brand, Costco is still the less expensive option. This medication is sold in bottles containing 70 pills.

For over-the-counter medication, I’m not set on name brands. However, I certainly respect that many are. I know that many people suggest buying medication at Costco to save money, so I am not surprised to see this item on the list.

14. Dave’s Killer Bread

This high-protein , organic bread is another suggestion to buy at Costco. Members can buy it at the warehouse store in a two 27-ounce loaf package.

I like Dave’s bread very much and wrote in the past about how I’d like Costco to sell the cinnamon raisin variety (Costco Wish List 2). It is a very expensive bread in the grocery stores (but fortunately often on sale), so Costco is definitely the place to get it. If I bought the variety Costco carries, I’d definitely buy it there, especially as it also freezes very well 

15. Kerrygold Irish Butter

A relatively expensive, but highly rated, item that is on he list to buy at Costco is this butter that is sold in a box containing four eight-ounce individual packages.

I don’t eat much butter and don’t notice much difference. However, I have read high reviews of this brand.

16. Cheerios

Another cereal to make the list is Cheerios. The author discusses the costly nature of cereal and suggests buying it at Costco, where it is sold in a box of two 20.35-ounce bags. The author points out that, in order to benefit, one would have to eat this cereal frequently, as it does not last forever.

I’m surprised to see Cheerios on the list because, as I discussed, there are often coupons on cereal (Costco vs. Supermarkets). However, as prices have increased and sales have decreased, maybe I shouldn’t be surprised. For people who eat Cheerios on even a relatively frequent basis, it makes sense to buy at Costco. True, it does not last fort, but it does usually last at least six to eight months. 

17. King Arthur All Purpose Flour

The article includes this flour on the list. Costco sells it in a 12-pound bag. However, because the bag is so large, the author recommends storing it in an airtight container.

I don’t bake and don’t buy flour but trust that it is less expensive at Costco.

18. Tillamook Cracker Cuts

The author reports buying a lot of these cheese cuts at Costco, for less money than she would pay at a grocery store. The cheese is sold in a three pack of 6.5-ounce packages and comes in a variety of flavors (Pepper Jack; aged white cheddar; regular cheddar).

I have written about the plentiful and high-quality cheese options at Costco (“Strong” and “weak” sections of Costco). Although I don’t buy them, I know how much most people like cheese. I have heard very good things about Tillamook (cheese and ice cream), and getting three flavors within one pack is an added bonus.

19. Clorox Wipes

Another cleaning supply on the list are these wipes that apparently would make the list even when not on the back to school sale, according to the author. They come in two scents (lemon; fresh scent) and are sold in five canisters, for a total of 425 wipes.

My family buys these wipes on a relatively frequent basis when they are on the discount. They are conveniently packaged and it is extremely helpful to always have them around. I have had smaller canisters in the past and it is noticeable how much more quickly they disappear. Therefore, I appreciate the larger size.

20. Heinz Condiments

The author recommends this variety pack of condiments (two ketchup; one mustard; one relish), claiming that the savings are worth it, even if one does not use the relish

The ketchup included in this condiment variety pack is “Simply Heinz.” I looked it up and learned that it is the ketchup by this brand that does not contain high fructose corn syrup. I imagine that this more natural variety would be more expensive than the traditional ketchup in grocery stores, this making this Costco pack and even better deal. I actually have often preferred the Passover ketchup (no corn syrup) to traditional Heinz, so I’d be tempted to buy this pack, especially because I like mustard and relish as well.

21. Organic Triscuit

The article highlights savings from buying these crackers at Costco. They are sold in a four pack of nine-ounce boxes.

I ate a lot of Triscuits as a kid, often with peanut butter. I then did not eat them for a long time, only trying them again a few years ago. I actually think I liked them more on this “second round”. They are kind of bland (although I see there are a lot of flavors now) but very good (when fresh) with peanut butter, tuna, or even just on their own. I actually didn’t know they made organic varieties but I would certainly be open to trying them. However, although I like the original Triscuits, I am also satisfied with store brand versions (e.g., “Woven Wheats”).

22. Children’s Motrin

The author bemoans the fact that, despite the smaller size of the patients, the medication for children is as expensive as it is for adults. Preparing ahead and saving money is possible by buying a three pack of liquid medicine for four ounce bottles. 

I actually never thought about whether I’d expect children’s medicine to cost less. Clothes and food certainly are not less expensive! I definitely agree that it is helpful to have the Costco size packs of all types of medicine around to prevent either prolonged suffering or last minute trips to the pharmacy.

23. Starbucks Liquid Coffee Creamer

Another item that makes the list of items to buy at Costco vs. the grocery store is this coffee creamer. Apparently the flavors vary. However, a common flavor sold is the caramel macchiato version. It is sold in a 58-ounce bottle.

I don’t drink coffee so have no use for creamer. I don’t know how much name brands differ from other varieties. However, I know that people are very particular about their coffee and additions and may be very eager to save on a Starbucks item.

24. Perfect Bar

Although still expensive at Costco, it is less expensive than at other stores to buy a variety pack (peanut butter; dark chocolate peanut butter with sea salt) of these protein bars. These refrigerated bars are sold in boxes of 12 bars.

I have mentioned that, although I don’t eat protein bars, these flavors sound good (Costco Deals for August). I actually do not even know if there are many non name brand protein bars made. I know many people, especially more serious athletes are very specific about their diets and supplements. Therefore, I imagine that they would be excited to save on these bars by buying them at Costco.

25. Eggo Waffles

The final item on the list of name brand items to buy at Costco rather than at grocery stores are these waffles. In addition to the price, the author comments on the benefits of the packaging (sleeves) that enables freezing the large amount of waffles with less likelihood of freezer burn due to all of the waffles being exposed to the icy air at once. Costco sells these waffles in boxes of 72 waffles.

My family has bought these waffles when on sale (10¢/waffle) several times. However, even when not on sale, they are worth buying at Costco. Store brands are often less expensive but I know that many people insist on the classic Eggos. They pair perfectly with syrup (Product Review: Kirkland 100% Pure Maple Syrup) and are quick to prepare. Of course, they take up a significant amount of freezer space.

What do you think about this list? Are these name brand items you prefer to buy at Costco rather than at the grocery store?