4 Reasons Why You Should Gas Up at Costco
For many years, and still to this day, I’ve been a Sam’s Club member here in the DC/Maryland area. My closest Sam’s is across from a Costco, but shopping there simply wasn’t a good experience when we trialed it. Our Costco is just too small, making it crowded inside and especially in the parking lot. But things changed recently to cause me to rethink a Costco membership and even sign up (and still keep Sam’s Club).
Both our local Sam’s and Costco are missing the fuel centers. But thanks to Youtube channels like The Deal Guy, “Costco hype machine” friends, and especially our increased travel in an RV, I decided to bite the bullet and try out Costco.
As I drive up and down the US East Coast, I use apps like Gas Buddy to look for the cheapest fuel, but still good quality and safe locations. I prefer if I can stop at a Sam’s or Costco, but I’ve actually found that Costco has been extremely competitive on their fuel prices. So much so that many Costco locations are adding pumps or increasing fuel center hours to meet demand.
Costco stands out as a reliable and cost-effective choice, so I decided to explore some top reasons why you should consider Costco for fuel, including its exceptional value, quality fuel offerings, and convenient locations.
1. Unbeatable Value:
Costco often sells its fuel at or near cost, as its primary focus is to provide value to its members rather than generating profit from fuel sales, and they consistently provide some of the lowest fuel prices in the market, allowing members to enjoy significant savings at the pump.
2. High-Quality Fuel:
Costco places a strong emphasis on providing high-quality products, and its fuel is no different. They adhere to strict quality control measures and partner with reputable suppliers to ensure that the fuel they offer meets or exceeds industry standards.
3. Convenience and Accessibility:
With over 800 warehouses worldwide, Costco’s widespread presence makes it convenient for many drivers. Whether you’re on a road trip or simply running errands, chances are there’s a Costco location nearby. Furthermore, the majority of Costco warehouses have their own gas stations, which are typically open for extended hours. This means you can fuel up at your convenience, whether it’s early morning or late at night. We’ve actually had to take advantage of this as we’re trying to stretch our mileage on a big travel day.
4. Additional Benefits:
Aside from low prices, quality fuel, and convenience, Costco offers additional benefits to its fuel program. For instance, certain credit cards from Costco or other banks offer higher cashback or rewards when you purchase fuel at Costco. This means you can earn even more benefits while enjoying discounted prices.
Being both a member of Sam’s Club and Costco, I will say I really prefer Sam’s mobile app over Costco’s. Sam’s mobile app allows me to both scan and pay at the pump, and to scan everything in my cart in-store — pay and get past the receipt checker at the exit without ever needing to stand in line at the register. I’m really hoping that Costco sees this and thinks “Hey, maybe we should add that!” 🙂
So if either Costco or Sam’s are in your budget or already in your wallet, consider bundling up your club visits with fill-ups whether you’re near home or especially out on the road like us!
Read More:
How To Get Free Same-Day Delivery From Costco
Here’s How Costco Keeps Employees Happy
10 Things To Know Before Booking Your Trip With Costco Travel
Mike is the original Clever Dude, starting the site in 2006 because his wife said “you need a hobby”. Mike loves helping others to avoid the silliness and stupidity that got him into extreme debt, but also learning general life skills and hacks along the way. Mike and his wife “Clever Dudette” are DINKs (Dual Income, No Kids), travel the country in an RV from their home base in DC and are passionate about their respective careers in technology (him) and nutrition (her).