Allison Lau
Anyone who knows me can attest that I'm a die-hard, loyal Costco shopper.
I've been an executive member for over a decade, and these days, I visit at least once a week — sometimes twice — to stock up on our family's favorite groceries.
As much as I love our Kirkland Signature staples and Costco's array of salad kits, the store isn't just a source of food for us. We've also found unbeatable prices on household necessities, gifts, and more.
These are the five items I'll always buy at Costco — before grabbing a cookie from the food court, of course.
I appreciate Costco's vitamin selection.
Allison Lau
Being a modern adult means actually taking care of yourself. I arm my body with a whole host of vitamins, all of which I buy at Costco.
From prenatal vitamins to fish oil, I'm a big fan of the high-quality, high-quantity options.
I also appreciate that Costco takes the decision fatigue out of vitamin shopping by providing enough options that I can choose the best fit for me, but not so many that I feel overwhelmed.
The Purely Indulgent towels are an affordable luxury.
Allison Lau
It used to feel like an indulgence to have high-quality bath towels, but thanks to Costco, they're a cheap addition that makes our bathroom feel like a resort.
I always keep my eye out for the Purely Indulgent 100% HygroCotton ones, which are as affordable as they are soft. I've found that ours get even fluffier over time.
I've snagged some on sale for as low as $4.99 each — and although I've seen bundles from this brand on retailers like Amazon and Walmart, I love that Costco sells individual towels, too.
These go on sale a few times a year at our location, so I always wait to grab a new set when that lovely discount sign appears.
I always buy my Apple devices at Costco.
Allison Lau
Being a full-time freelance writer and editor means I'm always on my computer. My work relies on having an updated, efficient computer, quality earbuds, and external monitors.
I love to skip the 30-minute drive and long wait times at the Apple Store and get my devices from Costco instead. It doesn't hurt that products like MacBook Airs are often cheaper here — I've seen some on sale for under $1,000.
Plus, there's nothing like the convenience of purchasing a new laptop along with a bunch of bananas.
If you like sleeping on a cloud, look no further.
Allison Lau
My family has purchased all of our mattresses from Costco. Specifically, we keep an eye out for the ultra-comfortable Sealy Posturepedic ones that our local store stocks a few times a year.
There are plenty of mattresses you can get for an affordable price, but in my opinion, the Sealy Posturepedic mattresses beat their competitors for comfort — and I haven't found these mattresses at such a low price anywhere else.
At Costco, I've gotten one for under $500, whereas on the Sealy website, prices start at around $600 or $700.
Last but not least, I check out the baby and toddler clothes on a monthly basis.
Allison Lau
I love to take a swing through the clothing section a few times a month to see what's new and what's on sale. I've purchased most of my little one's longest-lasting pieces from Costco's famous clothing tables.
I always keep an eye out for baby clothes from Carter's; I've found adorable sets for around $12.
Curious to know what other shoppers put in their carts? Check out our other Costco diaries here.
This story was originally published on April 2, 2026, and most recently updated on September 14, 2026.
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Allison Lau began her career tracking monkeys through tropical forests as a PhD behavioral scientist before turning her focus to human stories. Today, she serves as a developmental editor for memoirs and mission-driven nonfiction that make readers feel deeply and think differently. With 13 years of research experience studying animal behavior and social dynamics, Allison brings a rare blend of precision, empathy, and narrative instinct to every project. She describes herself as someone who turns coffee into words, preferably at a cafe in a foreign country. Follow her latest writing and reflections on storytelling over at https://substack.com/@allisonrlau.
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