Weird but “Needed” Items at Costco–after weird post

I wrote a post about some of the weirdest items that Costco sells (in my opinion; (What is Costco Thinking?)). I then came across an article that identifies weird Costco items that they claim people may need. I think it is amusing (but not surprising) that several of my picks and their picks overlap. I thought it would be fun to mention and comment on those that I did not write about. I wouldn’t consider any of them as “needs” but I imagine the author was being loose with the term.

12 Weird Items at Costco that Members May Need

1. Swimming pools

The article suggests these outdoor swimming pools as an alternative to driving to pools or beaches. These Bestway Steel Pro MAX 13’ x 30” Round Above Ground Pool Sets don’t require tools for assembly. They hold 2,084 gallons and come with a 530 gallon filter pump.

I did not know that Costco sold pools and agreed that it is an odd item for them to carry. Growing up, we had a big backyard (the neighborhood gathering place for baseball games, home run derby, and other outdoor games) and tried to convince our parents that it was a perfect size for a pool. They did not want to deal with the upkeep or the potential liability so we never got one. I know people often criticize the above ground pools for being “less fun” but I had some friends with these pools and enjoyed swimming in them. I did think it was a little funny that the author recommends buying a pool at Costco as a way to save gas money on trips to go swimming. There is no way (in my opinion) that a pool compares to a beach. In addition, it seems like it would take a lot of swimming trips to cost enough in gas to be more expensive than a pool.

2. A vacation

Discussed in other posts (Costco Services).

3. Engagement Rings

Discussed in other post (What is Costco Thinking?)

4. Gym equipment

Another item on the list is gym equipment, including dumbbells, mats, treadmills, and home gym equipment. 

Some of these items (e.g., mats ; weights) don’t seem like weird items. In contrast, treadmills do seem a bit odd for a store like Costco to carry. (Although, given that Costco sells dishwasher and washing machines, it actually may not be so weird…)

5.Musical instruments

Costco apparently sells musical instruments, including guitars, drum sets, and saxophones.

Growing up, all students in my elementary school had the option of joining the orchestra or the band. I decided to learn clarinet. Rather than buying the instrument from the school, my parents saved money by finding a used clarinet. I learned at this time how expensive instruments can be. Therefore, getting a good deal at Costco would certainly be appealing. I do wonder why they decided on these items (maybe the most popular?) They also left out pianos which I have seen in the store (most often in the winter). 

6. Optical services

I did not include optical in my “weird item” post but have written about these services before; (Costco optical:my experience); (Costco Optical: Updated from recent experience)).

7. Indoor and outdoor saunas

Another item on the weird list are both indoor and outdoor saunas. 

I have only tried saunas a few times and thought they were much too hot. However, now I think I’d like them a lot. I’d love to have an outdoor one in winter because that blast of cold before getting in is nice (less enjoyable after…) but I wouldn’t spend money on it. In addy, as appealing as it sounds, my condo building has a sauna that I have never used in over ten years of living there. 

8. Hot tubs and spas

Costco apparently not only sells pools and saunas but also hot tubs and spas for a wide range of prices. 

I love hot tubs and always have (I don’t worry about the warnings about bacteria). When we used to stay at hotels, it was fun to go swimming in the pool. An added bonus was the hot tub. I especially like hot tubs at night when the air is slightly cooler and the stars are out. It can be very difficult to get out of the hot water in the cooler air but it’s worth it for the enjoyment of sitting in the warm, bubbly water. Having my own spa would be amazing because the only time I don’t like the hotel hot tubs is when they are crowded (sometimes with people drinking and talking very loudly). However, as much as I’d like one, I don’t think I will ever own my own hot tub. It does seem like an odd item to be able to buy at the same place one buys yogurt and batteries, but…that’s Costco. 

9. Playground sets

The author considers the playground sets sold at Costco as another odd but needed item. These sets contain both slides and swings. 

I never thought about where people buy playground sets. We had a simple wooden one (just a few swings) when I was growing up. Of course they have become fancier and higher quality since. My brother recently bought  a great set at Costco. He put it together and the kids love it. It has swings, a slide, a twisty covered slide, a steering wheel, and two indoor areas. The kids love it. I think that it is great for kids to have a little playground in the backyard. However, one concern is that it’s good for kids to interact with other kids at parks (but that has nothing to do with Costco.)

10. A credit card

A much physically smaller item than many of the others on the list is The Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi that has several benefits (e.g., 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases; 3% cash back on eligible restaurants and travel; 2% cash back on Costco and Costco.com purchases;1% cash back on all other purchases).

I’m surprised that this card made the list as it does not seem so weird, given its benefits. My family has this card and uses it all the time.

11. Apocalypse-ready food bucket

Discussed in other post (What is Costco Thinking?)

12. Caskets

Discussed in other post (What is Costco Thinking?)

What do you think about these items that the author considered weird but maybe needed? Do you agree that are weird for Costco to sell? Do you think they are “needed”?