Shopping for your favorite groceries and visiting the Costco food court can be a lot of fun, but it’s always best to be prepared on Costco policies before you get to the store. This definitely applies to Costco’s bag policy so you can be prepared when it’s time to start bagging your groceries. In an effort to do its part for the environment and cut back on plastic use, Costco only accepts reusable bags. If you’re curious about Costco reusable bags or the warehouse’s policy, keep reading to learn more. 

Related: Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Costco 2-Day Delivery

Costco Bagging Policy

reusable shopping bags

While Costco employees help pack your bags, they do not provide plastic or paper. Since Costco is “committed to providing our members with high-quality products at the lowest possible prices,” they have never included bags at checkout because this could increase prices in the store. After all, Costco has to offset operating costs in order to keep those bargains coming. Additionally, Costco has always been committed to being an environmentally friendly business. The warehouse continues to cut back on plastic use to this day. 

Why Doesn’t Costco Use Shopping Bags?

According to their website, Costco does not use shopping bags as they contribute to waste which would result in higher operating costs for the company. Also, plastic bags have been discontinued in certain states as a part of local and state regulations. As a result, Costco requires you to bring your own bags at checkout.  

Check Out: What Is Costco Direct?

Does Costco Sell Reusable Bags?

Costco does sell reusable bags that you can use for future visits to the wholesaler. Depending on your local warehouse’s location, these reusable bags can be sold in packs of two or four in varying sizes. This is super convenient if you forget your reusable bags at home by accident. 

Costco-branded bags can also be found on sites like eBay or Amazon should you want to stock up. OR, if these aren’t your taste, you can also find a large variety of reusable bags through other retailers. 

Other Options for Packing Your Car

Costco reusable bags: cardboard box filled with groceries

While Costco may not provide plastic or paper bags at check out, there are plenty of other alternatives to keeping your groceries organized in your car. If you don’t have Costco reusable bags, lots of other retailers offer their own reusable bags that you can buy (whether canvas or laminate). These range in all kinds of sizes. Plus, you can use the opportunity to express your style and select bags based on pretty designs or colors. Many brands have capitalized on the “tote” style and shopping bag look, so there’s a lot out there that can help lessen waste. 

Another option specific to Costco and other wholesalers like BJ’s is their cardboard box section. Usually located near checkout or the cash registers, boxes are left behind from items sold in the store. You can grab a few and use them to help pack your car for the ride home. Some customers enjoy using these boxes because of how much they fit. The best part? They are recyclable afterward.

Read Next: How to Check Costco Inventory?

Now that you know what to expect, be sure to grab some reusable bags before your next shopping trip. With Costco reusable bags, you can save time and money. Pile all your go-to items into one large, durable bag and keep new items secure in your car. Not only are you saving the environment, but you can also stock up on some unique bags to show off your personal style when out and about. 

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