What Is the Best Time to Shop at Costco?

Costco is our favorite wholesaler for many reasons. From bargain items, gas, travel, and other perks, you cannot go wrong when signing up for a membership. The only problem? Costco is often packed with other shoppers who are also looking for sales. We can help you plan your trip based on the best time to shop at Costco; use our guidance to avoid the lines on your next shopping trip. Keep reading to learn about a few key times to shop.

If you want to be the first to read our exclusive content and hear about new Costco deals, sign up for our email list here.

Sporting Events

Though college towns or sporty cities can be full of rowdy people, there are benefits to living in these high-density areas. During a game, people are either at the stadium or in front of their television, so this could be the perfect time to stop into Costco. One member says they go “When the Cowboys are on TV and the place is a ghost town.” It might not work every time, but if you can skip the event or record it for later, this is worth a try.

Related: Which Costco Apple Products Are Worth Buying?

Rainy Days

Rainy days are some of the best days to stay inside, but they might also be useful for smaller lines. True story: We visited the Memphis Costco during a torrential downpour, and when we made it inside, the store was nearly empty. If you don’t mind getting wet walking to and from the warehouse, try shopping during a rainstorm. 

Mornings

Getting up early and heading to the store may not sound appealing, but it’s a great time to shop at Costco. Usually, this is when early-bird shoppers and Instacart shoppers are in the aisles, but there are not as many as during rush hour. Mornings are also advantageous because Costco workers restocked the shelves and put out the freshest products for the day.

Check Out: Everything You Need to Know About Costco’s New Free Sample Policy

Closing Time

Some shoppers like to wait until later in the day, and the best time to hit the Costco aisles is around thirty minutes to an hour before closing. One customer says it’s a “ghost town,” but you may have fewer choices as the store is picked over. Since store hours are final, this option is also geared towards people who know what they need in a time crunch, rather than the shoppers who like to take their time.

Also Read: 8 Must-Know Costco Shopping Tips for Small Households

Executive Member Perks

If you’re a Costco Executive Member, then things just got even sweeter when shopping at the warehouse. As of June 2025, the wholesaler reinstated the option for Executive Members to shop earlier than other members. They are allowed to enter an hour earlier, from 9 am to 10 am on weekdays and on Sundays. On Saturdays, they are allowed to shop earlier from 9 am to 9:30 am. All other members must enter at normal hours.

What About the Best Days to Shop at Costco?

Thankfully, there are options when it comes to the best days to shop at Costco. Most Costco staff agree that Tuesday through Thursday are the best days to go shopping, but Mondays and Fridays are also preferable to Saturdays and Sundays. Depending on your store location, these are likely quieter times to visit the warehouse.

Check Out: 8 Best Costco Items Available Online Only

What Is the Worst Time to Shop at Costco?

Most of us can agree that shopping during the weekend can be extremely stressful, and this is very true for Costco warehouses. Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest times at Costco, especially midday, because most people have off from work on the weekends, which allows for time to check errands off the list. Plus, after Church services, many people head to Costco to pick up food for the whole family.

You will also want to avoid shopping right after school, as some Costco customers claim that weekdays between 2:30 and 4 pm can be quite busy. 

Read More: What Is the Busiest Costco in the World?

Finding Your Best Time

Shopping trips shouldn’t have to be stressful. Finding the right time to visit Costco is a great way to alleviate some of the stress and get all the items you need for your family. You can use the tips listed above, but of course, the best times will depend on your warehouse’s location. By combining these two, you should be able to skip those pesky lines and get all the bargain items you desire. 

Why doesn’t Costco open earlier?

Costco’s store hours are based on several factors, including customer demand, staffing availability, and operational efficiency. Most stores open at 10 am, as this aligns with most of the clientele shopping at Costco. Many members are families or working adults who would rather shop later in the morning, after work, or during lunch breaks. 

Check Out: Where Is Costco Opening New Stores?

How often does the average person go to Costco?

According to Yahoo Finance, most Costco customers visit the warehouse once or twice a month. 22% visit every other week, while 29% shop once a month. Other frequencies include 15% going once a week, 15% every few months, and only 5% every day. 

This is mostly due to Costco’s bargain-size items, allowing members to shop less and still get quality items. Costco sells items in bulk, perfect for families or those who don’t live close to a store. 

Also Read: 8 Best Costco Stores in Washington

How early can you get into Costco?

Most Costcos open the doors around 10 am, though each location may vary, such as a 9:30 am opening on Saturdays. Executive members can also get access to the warehouse early, which was reinstated in June 2025. 

What days does Costco restock?

Costco restocks its aisles every day, usually between 1 am and 4 am, to not disturb customers, but there is no set schedule. Some Costco employees will start stocking at 4 am until the doors open. During the busy times of the year, like holidays, employees will restock throughout the day to keep all our favorite items on the shelves. 

Check Out: High-End Gourmet Food at Costco You Need to Try

Keep an eye out to see if you notice any patterns of your own in-store, and be sure to comment below to share with other shoppers!

Don’t forget to keep checking back here at Costco97 for information on the best deals and hidden sales like .97 discounts. We talk about the best Costco bargains, secret hacks, and everything there is to know about the wholesaler and being a part of their membership. And be sure to stay in touch with the upcoming coupons, listed in our Costco Coupon Book (updated monthly).