If you’ve ever been to Costco, you’ll know it’s a dreamland for shoppers who value quantity at a discounted price.

But as you’re about to find out, shopping at this up-and-coming retail giant isn’t all smooth sailing.

‘A little bit awkward’ at best as one shopper found out, and a complete disaster at worst if you're not mindful of certain rules.

Just ask Jo and her boyfriend Shamus, whose love of food and the thrill of unearthing a meticulous bargain led to their first Costco expedition as a couple.

For them, grocery shopping wasn’t just about the food, it was a tradition–a date of sorts–adorning a central part in their relationship.

Jo Abi and boyfriend, Shamus, visited Costco and had an ‘awkward’ experience. Image source: 9Honey / Jo Abi.

Their regular Saturday shopping itinerary kicked off at ALDI, followed by a trip to either Coles or Woolworths—depending on which supermarket featured the most tempting specials—a quick visit to the local fruit market, and then a short journey back home. A visit to Costco, however, required a bit more planning.

Once they arrived at Costco, early in the afternoon, they were greeted by the chaotic car park and the lack of shopping carts.

As Jo navigated past the battery, clothes, and massive sacks of rice, they found themselves in the fresh produce section. In a matter of a few minutes, three items found their way into her mental shopping cart as they realized they didn’t have one.

Shamus ran to look for a cart that needed a $2 coin they found at the bottom of Jo’s bag.

While waiting for Shamus’s return, she thought of adding cinnamon buns and pre-packaged wraps and salads but brought her focus back on staples like eggs and potatoes.

Those who shop at Costco would know the gigantic size of their shopping carts–and Shamus and Jo’s were quickly filled.

They also added a rug to their haul that they thought would do a valiant job of camouflaging the carpet stains of their son’s room.

Jo had also just renewed her membership for $65 that day.

Upon arriving at the checkout, Shamus had some last-minute items he wanted to buy and ran off. He made it back in time and they decided to separate their items so they could pay for their own purchases.

In a twist of fate, they realised at the checkout that their understanding of Costco’s membership rule left a lot to be desired.

It all started when they heard a mother and daughter being told they couldn’t share a membership card because they lived in different locations, as per their driver's licenses.

Jo assumed that being a couple gave them a pass. But they, too, were told, in no uncertain terms, that their agreement to pay for their own purchases was not permitted. The only resolution was for her to pay for everything and for Shamus to pay her back later, or for Shamus to cough up for his own $65 membership.

Jo ended up paying for it all, and Shamus paid her back by filling up her car with petrol.

She said the entire thing was awkward as they were unable to keep their promise to pay for their own purchases.

‘I didn't remember Costco membership rules being this strict, but it seems they have changed since the discount retailer launched in Australia in 2009,’ Jo said.

Despite the mishap, the couple still believes that it is still worth scheduling a bimonthly or monthly trip to Costco to stock up on bulk purchases and avail of their bargains––provided you have a plan of action in place.

Jo’s experience—and a glance at Costco’s website, she said—led her to come up with the following realisations:

1. Daughters are not allowed to use their mother's membership cards;

2. Boyfriends are not allowed to use their girlfriend's membership cards;

3. A primary cardholder's spouse, domestic partner, or immediate family member over the age of 18 and living at the same address is entitled to a free household card;

4. You are allowed to bring up to two guests in the warehouse each time you shop. However, only the Costco member is allowed to purchase items;

5. All receipts and merchandise will be inspected before leaving the warehouse, this is to ensure that all members are correctly charged for the merchandise purchased;

6. Pets are not allowed in Costco stores.

Key Takeaways

• A couple's trip to Costco was met with confusion over the membership rules.
  
• Rules dictate that membership cards cannot be shared between family members or couples who don't live at the same address.
  
• Only the primary cardholder's spouse, domestic partner, or immediate family member over the age of 18 and living at the same address is eligible for a free household card.
  
• Despite the strict rules, they still find Costco to be worth its membership due to the bulk purchases and bargains but suggest shoppers arrive with a plan and a list of needed items.
  

So, on your next run to Costco, don’t forget to bring a valid membership, keep a $2 coin handy–and remember, always stick to your shopping list!

How often do you frequent Costco? Did you know about these rules? Let us know in the comments below!

 

[Littleboy8]

The first instance of me being a smartarse in a retail setting was when I was 14 during the school holidays. Along with three mates, we were finishing our milkshakes at Four Corners food court in Roselands Shopping Centre when an attendant told us to vacate our seat as there were other customers waiting.

I informed the attendant that "in accordance with the Restaurant and Cafes Act, you are not required to vacate a seat until you are ready to do so...". The attendant was gobsmacked and walked off. So we sat there for another ten minutes. Bullshitting (in a good way) to such people is one of my favourite pastimes and still is.

 

[Ian Crane-Luff]

If you’ve ever been to Costco, you’ll know it’s a dreamland for shoppers who value quantity at a discounted price.

But as you’re about to find out, shopping at this up-and-coming retail giant isn’t all smooth sailing.

‘A little bit awkward’ at best as one shopper found out, and a complete disaster at worst if you're not mindful of certain rules.

Just ask Jo and her boyfriend Shamus, whose love of food and the thrill of unearthing a meticulous bargain led to their first Costco expedition as a couple.

For them, grocery shopping wasn’t just about the food, it was a tradition–a date of sorts–adorning a central part in their relationship.

View attachment 28568

Jo Abi and boyfriend, Shamus, visited Costco and had an ‘awkward’ experience. Image source: 9Honey / Jo Abi.

Their regular Saturday shopping itinerary kicked off at ALDI, followed by a trip to either Coles or Woolworths—depending on which supermarket featured the most tempting specials—a quick visit to the local fruit market, and then a short journey back home. A visit to Costco, however, required a bit more planning.

Once they arrived at Costco, early in the afternoon, they were greeted by the chaotic car park and the lack of shopping carts.

As Jo navigated past the battery, clothes, and massive sacks of rice, they found themselves in the fresh produce section. In a matter of a few minutes, three items found their way into her mental shopping cart as they realized they didn’t have one.

Shamus ran to look for a cart that needed a $2 coin they found at the bottom of Jo’s bag.

While waiting for Shamus’s return, she thought of adding cinnamon buns and pre-packaged wraps and salads but brought her focus back on staples like eggs and potatoes.

Those who shop at Costco would know the gigantic size of their shopping carts–and Shamus and Jo’s were quickly filled.

They also added a rug to their haul that they thought would do a valiant job of camouflaging the carpet stains of their son’s room.

Jo had also just renewed her membership for $65 that day.

Upon arriving at the checkout, Shamus had some last-minute items he wanted to buy and ran off. He made it back in time and they decided to separate their items so they could pay for their own purchases.

In a twist of fate, they realised at the checkout that their understanding of Costco’s membership rule left a lot to be desired.

It all started when they heard a mother and daughter being told they couldn’t share a membership card because they lived in different locations, as per their driver's licenses.

Jo assumed that being a couple gave them a pass. But they, too, were told, in no uncertain terms, that their agreement to pay for their own purchases was not permitted. The only resolution was for her to pay for everything and for Shamus to pay her back later, or for Shamus to cough up for his own $65 membership.

Jo ended up paying for it all, and Shamus paid her back by filling up her car with petrol.

She said the entire thing was awkward as they were unable to keep their promise to pay for their own purchases.

‘I didn't remember Costco membership rules being this strict, but it seems they have changed since the discount retailer launched in Australia in 2009,’ Jo said.

Despite the mishap, the couple still believes that it is still worth scheduling a bimonthly or monthly trip to Costco to stock up on bulk purchases and avail of their bargains––provided you have a plan of action in place.

Jo’s experience—and a glance at Costco’s website, she said—led her to come up with the following realisations:

1. Daughters are not allowed to use their mother's membership cards;

2. Boyfriends are not allowed to use their girlfriend's membership cards;

3. A primary cardholder's spouse, domestic partner, or immediate family member over the age of 18 and living at the same address is entitled to a free household card;

4. You are allowed to bring up to two guests in the warehouse each time you shop. However, only the Costco member is allowed to purchase items;

5. All receipts and merchandise will be inspected before leaving the warehouse, this is to ensure that all members are correctly charged for the merchandise purchased;

6. Pets are not allowed in Costco stores.

Key Takeaways

• A couple's trip to Costco was met with confusion over the membership rules.
• Rules dictate that membership cards cannot be shared between family members or couples who don't live at the same address.
• Only the primary cardholder's spouse, domestic partner, or immediate family member over the age of 18 and living at the same address is eligible for a free household card.
• Despite the strict rules, they still find Costco to be worth its membership due to the bulk purchases and bargains but suggest shoppers arrive with a plan and a list of needed items.

So, on your next run to Costco, don’t forget to bring a valid membership, keep a $2 coin handy–and remember, always stick to your shopping list!

How often do you frequent Costco? Did you know about these rules? Let us know in the comments below!

About the rule about pets, I would love to see them stopping a guide dog going in

 

[DiRose]

Costco is brilliant if you know your prices. The roast chickens and their price are unbeatable. Their GF range is wonderful with plenty of choices. The ALDI token fits the shopping trolley. And keeping an eye on the specials as you go through the aisles you do get the extra specials (usually another $3 off). I save more than my annual membership on the fuel alone. It's fun on Fridays with little food tastings at almost every aisle, I get to eat my way around LOL. I go with a friend and we shop together, he pays and I pay him back when we get home and sort out the groceries. Easy-peasy

 

[Littleboy8]

About the rule about pets, I would love to see them stopping a guide dog going in

Don’t think they’d try that they’d get lynched

 

[freedy50]

One of the main reasons I will NEVER shop at COSTCO. As far as Im concerned the rule about sharing a rule with a partner or family member just tells me they are tightwads.

What a fuss. All shops have rules about what their customers can and can't do.

 

[Vinylted]

Never been and never will..

 

[AlanQ]

Alternatively, just ask for a sub total of the first buyers stuff, it will then show either on the register or the printed receipt. If not, mental note and deduct from total for the balance etc. Personally, not ever found anything in Costco Aust that isn't similar to the bulk price at other retailers. However, the US is a totally different scenario, then the prices are much much cheaper. Have purchased Aust wine in the US Costco (not on sale) cheaper than that on sale in Aust. Taxes aside, there isn't a massive mark up on booze in the US. Similar experience with clothing, seasonal changes in the US means they do sell $1000 suits for less than $400 when it's end of season and if they don't move them they're stuck with them.

 

[Aussie all the Way]

We don't have a Costco in Tassie BUT even I know the rules that you can't hand off the card, it is for the person who paid the membership and I think that you can have a guest unless they have stopped that as well.

 

[1234+×÷=]

If you’ve ever been to Costco, you’ll know it’s a dreamland for shoppers who value quantity at a discounted price.

But as you’re about to find out, shopping at this up-and-coming retail giant isn’t all smooth sailing.

‘A little bit awkward’ at best as one shopper found out, and a complete disaster at worst if you're not mindful of certain rules.

Just ask Jo and her boyfriend Shamus, whose love of food and the thrill of unearthing a meticulous bargain led to their first Costco expedition as a couple.

For them, grocery shopping wasn’t just about the food, it was a tradition–a date of sorts–adorning a central part in their relationship.

View attachment 28568

Jo Abi and boyfriend, Shamus, visited Costco and had an ‘awkward’ experience. Image source: 9Honey / Jo Abi.

Their regular Saturday shopping itinerary kicked off at ALDI, followed by a trip to either Coles or Woolworths—depending on which supermarket featured the most tempting specials—a quick visit to the local fruit market, and then a short journey back home. A visit to Costco, however, required a bit more planning.

Once they arrived at Costco, early in the afternoon, they were greeted by the chaotic car park and the lack of shopping carts.

As Jo navigated past the battery, clothes, and massive sacks of rice, they found themselves in the fresh produce section. In a matter of a few minutes, three items found their way into her mental shopping cart as they realized they didn’t have one.

Shamus ran to look for a cart that needed a $2 coin they found at the bottom of Jo’s bag.

While waiting for Shamus’s return, she thought of adding cinnamon buns and pre-packaged wraps and salads but brought her focus back on staples like eggs and potatoes.

Those who shop at Costco would know the gigantic size of their shopping carts–and Shamus and Jo’s were quickly filled.

They also added a rug to their haul that they thought would do a valiant job of camouflaging the carpet stains of their son’s room.

Jo had also just renewed her membership for $65 that day.

Upon arriving at the checkout, Shamus had some last-minute items he wanted to buy and ran off. He made it back in time and they decided to separate their items so they could pay for their own purchases.

In a twist of fate, they realised at the checkout that their understanding of Costco’s membership rule left a lot to be desired.

It all started when they heard a mother and daughter being told they couldn’t share a membership card because they lived in different locations, as per their driver's licenses.

Jo assumed that being a couple gave them a pass. But they, too, were told, in no uncertain terms, that their agreement to pay for their own purchases was not permitted. The only resolution was for her to pay for everything and for Shamus to pay her back later, or for Shamus to cough up for his own $65 membership.

Jo ended up paying for it all, and Shamus paid her back by filling up her car with petrol.

She said the entire thing was awkward as they were unable to keep their promise to pay for their own purchases.

‘I didn't remember Costco membership rules being this strict, but it seems they have changed since the discount retailer launched in Australia in 2009,’ Jo said.

Despite the mishap, the couple still believes that it is still worth scheduling a bimonthly or monthly trip to Costco to stock up on bulk purchases and avail of their bargains––provided you have a plan of action in place.

Jo’s experience—and a glance at Costco’s website, she said—led her to come up with the following realisations:

1. Daughters are not allowed to use their mother's membership cards;

2. Boyfriends are not allowed to use their girlfriend's membership cards;

3. A primary cardholder's spouse, domestic partner, or immediate family member over the age of 18 and living at the same address is entitled to a free household card;

4. You are allowed to bring up to two guests in the warehouse each time you shop. However, only the Costco member is allowed to purchase items;

5. All receipts and merchandise will be inspected before leaving the warehouse, this is to ensure that all members are correctly charged for the merchandise purchased;

6. Pets are not allowed in Costco stores.

Key Takeaways

• A couple's trip to Costco was met with confusion over the membership rules.
• Rules dictate that membership cards cannot be shared between family members or couples who don't live at the same address.
• Only the primary cardholder's spouse, domestic partner, or immediate family member over the age of 18 and living at the same address is eligible for a free household card.
• Despite the strict rules, they still find Costco to be worth its membership due to the bulk purchases and bargains but suggest shoppers arrive with a plan and a list of needed items.

So, on your next run to Costco, don’t forget to bring a valid membership, keep a $2 coin handy–and remember, always stick to your shopping list!

How often do you frequent Costco? Did you know about these rules? Let us know in the comments below!

We have been shopping at Costco for many years and these have always been the rules. If l take guests and they want something, it all goes in the trolley and it's paid for by me the card holder. It's not a big deal.

 

[Seng]

If you’ve ever been to Costco, you’ll know it’s a dreamland for shoppers who value quantity at a discounted price.

But as you’re about to find out, shopping at this up-and-coming retail giant isn’t all smooth sailing.

‘A little bit awkward’ at best as one shopper found out, and a complete disaster at worst if you're not mindful of certain rules.

Just ask Jo and her boyfriend Shamus, whose love of food and the thrill of unearthing a meticulous bargain led to their first Costco expedition as a couple.

For them, grocery shopping wasn’t just about the food, it was a tradition–a date of sorts–adorning a central part in their relationship.

View attachment 28568

Jo Abi and boyfriend, Shamus, visited Costco and had an ‘awkward’ experience. Image source: 9Honey / Jo Abi.

Their regular Saturday shopping itinerary kicked off at ALDI, followed by a trip to either Coles or Woolworths—depending on which supermarket featured the most tempting specials—a quick visit to the local fruit market, and then a short journey back home. A visit to Costco, however, required a bit more planning.

Once they arrived at Costco, early in the afternoon, they were greeted by the chaotic car park and the lack of shopping carts.

As Jo navigated past the battery, clothes, and massive sacks of rice, they found themselves in the fresh produce section. In a matter of a few minutes, three items found their way into her mental shopping cart as they realized they didn’t have one.

Shamus ran to look for a cart that needed a $2 coin they found at the bottom of Jo’s bag.

While waiting for Shamus’s return, she thought of adding cinnamon buns and pre-packaged wraps and salads but brought her focus back on staples like eggs and potatoes.

Those who shop at Costco would know the gigantic size of their shopping carts–and Shamus and Jo’s were quickly filled.

They also added a rug to their haul that they thought would do a valiant job of camouflaging the carpet stains of their son’s room.

Jo had also just renewed her membership for $65 that day.

Upon arriving at the checkout, Shamus had some last-minute items he wanted to buy and ran off. He made it back in time and they decided to separate their items so they could pay for their own purchases.

In a twist of fate, they realised at the checkout that their understanding of Costco’s membership rule left a lot to be desired.

It all started when they heard a mother and daughter being told they couldn’t share a membership card because they lived in different locations, as per their driver's licenses.

Jo assumed that being a couple gave them a pass. But they, too, were told, in no uncertain terms, that their agreement to pay for their own purchases was not permitted. The only resolution was for her to pay for everything and for Shamus to pay her back later, or for Shamus to cough up for his own $65 membership.

Jo ended up paying for it all, and Shamus paid her back by filling up her car with petrol.

She said the entire thing was awkward as they were unable to keep their promise to pay for their own purchases.

‘I didn't remember Costco membership rules being this strict, but it seems they have changed since the discount retailer launched in Australia in 2009,’ Jo said.

Despite the mishap, the couple still believes that it is still worth scheduling a bimonthly or monthly trip to Costco to stock up on bulk purchases and avail of their bargains––provided you have a plan of action in place.

Jo’s experience—and a glance at Costco’s website, she said—led her to come up with the following realisations:

1. Daughters are not allowed to use their mother's membership cards;

2. Boyfriends are not allowed to use their girlfriend's membership cards;

3. A primary cardholder's spouse, domestic partner, or immediate family member over the age of 18 and living at the same address is entitled to a free household card;

4. You are allowed to bring up to two guests in the warehouse each time you shop. However, only the Costco member is allowed to purchase items;

5. All receipts and merchandise will be inspected before leaving the warehouse, this is to ensure that all members are correctly charged for the merchandise purchased;

6. Pets are not allowed in Costco stores.

Key Takeaways

• A couple's trip to Costco was met with confusion over the membership rules.
• Rules dictate that membership cards cannot be shared between family members or couples who don't live at the same address.
• Only the primary cardholder's spouse, domestic partner, or immediate family member over the age of 18 and living at the same address is eligible for a free household card.
• Despite the strict rules, they still find Costco to be worth its membership due to the bulk purchases and bargains but suggest shoppers arrive with a plan and a list of needed items.

So, on your next run to Costco, don’t forget to bring a valid membership, keep a $2 coin handy–and remember, always stick to your shopping list!

How often do you frequent Costco? Did you know about these rules? Let us know in the comments below!

This has always been the rule and would have been told when you try to get the 2nd card for another person. Have been a member since they started the Ringwood store. Never been happier. You can also pay by cash if required. Shopping cart coinage is similar to Woolworths and Coles trolleys in most of Melbourne stores.

 

[HFM]

If you’ve ever been to Costco, you’ll know it’s a dreamland for shoppers who value quantity at a discounted price.

But as you’re about to find out, shopping at this up-and-coming retail giant isn’t all smooth sailing.

‘A little bit awkward’ at best as one shopper found out, and a complete disaster at worst if you're not mindful of certain rules.

Just ask Jo and her boyfriend Shamus, whose love of food and the thrill of unearthing a meticulous bargain led to their first Costco expedition as a couple.

For them, grocery shopping wasn’t just about the food, it was a tradition–a date of sorts–adorning a central part in their relationship.

View attachment 28568

Jo Abi and boyfriend, Shamus, visited Costco and had an ‘awkward’ experience. Image source: 9Honey / Jo Abi.

Their regular Saturday shopping itinerary kicked off at ALDI, followed by a trip to either Coles or Woolworths—depending on which supermarket featured the most tempting specials—a quick visit to the local fruit market, and then a short journey back home. A visit to Costco, however, required a bit more planning.

Once they arrived at Costco, early in the afternoon, they were greeted by the chaotic car park and the lack of shopping carts.

As Jo navigated past the battery, clothes, and massive sacks of rice, they found themselves in the fresh produce section. In a matter of a few minutes, three items found their way into her mental shopping cart as they realized they didn’t have one.

Shamus ran to look for a cart that needed a $2 coin they found at the bottom of Jo’s bag.

While waiting for Shamus’s return, she thought of adding cinnamon buns and pre-packaged wraps and salads but brought her focus back on staples like eggs and potatoes.

Those who shop at Costco would know the gigantic size of their shopping carts–and Shamus and Jo’s were quickly filled.

They also added a rug to their haul that they thought would do a valiant job of camouflaging the carpet stains of their son’s room.

Jo had also just renewed her membership for $65 that day.

Upon arriving at the checkout, Shamus had some last-minute items he wanted to buy and ran off. He made it back in time and they decided to separate their items so they could pay for their own purchases.

In a twist of fate, they realised at the checkout that their understanding of Costco’s membership rule left a lot to be desired.

It all started when they heard a mother and daughter being told they couldn’t share a membership card because they lived in different locations, as per their driver's licenses.

Jo assumed that being a couple gave them a pass. But they, too, were told, in no uncertain terms, that their agreement to pay for their own purchases was not permitted. The only resolution was for her to pay for everything and for Shamus to pay her back later, or for Shamus to cough up for his own $65 membership.

Jo ended up paying for it all, and Shamus paid her back by filling up her car with petrol.

She said the entire thing was awkward as they were unable to keep their promise to pay for their own purchases.

‘I didn't remember Costco membership rules being this strict, but it seems they have changed since the discount retailer launched in Australia in 2009,’ Jo said.

Despite the mishap, the couple still believes that it is still worth scheduling a bimonthly or monthly trip to Costco to stock up on bulk purchases and avail of their bargains––provided you have a plan of action in place.

Jo’s experience—and a glance at Costco’s website, she said—led her to come up with the following realisations:

1. Daughters are not allowed to use their mother's membership cards;

2. Boyfriends are not allowed to use their girlfriend's membership cards;

3. A primary cardholder's spouse, domestic partner, or immediate family member over the age of 18 and living at the same address is entitled to a free household card;

4. You are allowed to bring up to two guests in the warehouse each time you shop. However, only the Costco member is allowed to purchase items;

5. All receipts and merchandise will be inspected before leaving the warehouse, this is to ensure that all members are correctly charged for the merchandise purchased;

6. Pets are not allowed in Costco stores.

Key Takeaways

• A couple's trip to Costco was met with confusion over the membership rules.
• Rules dictate that membership cards cannot be shared between family members or couples who don't live at the same address.
• Only the primary cardholder's spouse, domestic partner, or immediate family member over the age of 18 and living at the same address is eligible for a free household card.
• Despite the strict rules, they still find Costco to be worth its membership due to the bulk purchases and bargains but suggest shoppers arrive with a plan and a list of needed items.

So, on your next run to Costco, don’t forget to bring a valid membership, keep a $2 coin handy–and remember, always stick to your shopping list!

How often do you frequent Costco? Did you know about these rules? Let us know in the comments below!

I purchased a membership for my son, when I asked if his 17 year old daughter could have the extra card in her name to buy fuel, I was told no, why I asked, the answer we sell alcohol she needs to be 18. Considering the alcohol is in an enclosed area paid at separate register you would assume if she tried to purchase alcohol she would be asked to prove her age.
I find Costco expensive Know your prices before you shop I go for the Fuel and the BBQ chickens. More than pays for the membership.

 

[Joseph pickering]

I don't see what the problem is and why she is moaning ... you know the rules when you sign up for a Costco membership and the condition of the member being the only one allowed to pay is clearly stated. As is the one about only people living in the same household being allowed to get the additional card. Someone just wants her 15 minutes of fame, I think.

O miss tutty tut to you