Summer can be one of the most expensive seasons of the year. This is why frugal shoppers know that buying certain items at Costco before peak season can lead to major savings.
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To find out what’s really worth buying now, GOBankingRates spoke with frugal living experts who rely on Costco as their secret weapon for cutting costs. Here are five Costco items frugal people swear by buying before summer, and why grabbing them early can help stretch your budget.
Kirkland Signature Ice Cream Bars
- Price: $12.47
Prep your freezer for summer sweet tooth cravings with these ice cream bars.
“We like to keep a fancy but fast dessert option on hand during the summer,” said Hope Ware, founder of the personal finance site Under the Median. “The Kirkland Signature Ice Cream Bars taste just like the far more expensive name brands but at about half the price. An 18-count box is just $12.47.”
At just $0.69 per bar, this is a deal worth scooping up.
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Weatherproof Vintage Men’s Woven Short Sleeve Shirt
- Price: $13.99
Costco’s vintage short sleeve shirt makes it easy to stay cool while looking sharp during the warm summer months.
“The [pattern] gives off a fun 1960s vibe,” Ware said. “It is well-made and thicker than most linen shirts, but the weave allows for more airflow, keeping you cool.”
Made Good Organic Granola Minis
- Price: $14.49
Between camps, swim lessons and day-long adventures, the Made Good granola minis are the perfect companion to keep energy up amid summer activities.
“These tasty little on-the-go granola snacks are a mother’s dream, especially if your child has food allergies,” Ware said. “They are gluten-free, vegan, organic and made from whole food ingredients. The price is right, too; you get 24 generous-sized pouches for $14.49.”
Vornado Box Fan
- Price: $79.99
Say goodbye to flimsy fans that break after a summer of use, thanks to Costco’s Vornado box fan.
“The fan has a kickstand, so it will remain stable, whether it’s sitting on the floor or a table,” Ware said. “Box fans are more practical than other fans because you can use it inside or place it in a window to bring cooler air into the house when the outdoor temperatures drop.”
While cheaper fans are on the market, with Costco’s 5-year warranty, it’s a reliable, long-lasting buy that’s well worth the investment.
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.
Disclaimer: Prices and availability accurate as of March 20, 2026 and subject to change.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 4 Smart Costco Buys Frugal Shoppers Grab Before Summer
