15 Amazing Costco Buys Under $20

Costco is known for its great deals, especially when you buy in bulk. This can sometimes make a shopping outing at the popular warehouse retailer an expensive one, though. But did you know that some of the best bargains can be found for less than $20? Here are 15 must-have items you can buy while keeping more cash in your savings account.

Great deals year-round

Find these Costco offerings whenever you stop by:

1. Costco books

Costco is not just a go-to spot for bulk groceries and discounted electronics, it's also a hidden gem for book lovers. From bestsellers to classic literature, Costco has something for every taste and genre. For example, you can get the eight book set of The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis for $17.99. The same set goes for $28.47 at Walmart.

2. Sharpie Fine Point Permanent Marker: $13.99

There's no doubt that Sharpie is one of the most popular permanent marker brands. Its high-end markers do not bleed or dry out early, and they have a wide variety of uses. Costco sells 24 Black + 1 Bonus Silver Marker at $0.56 per pen. At Walmart, the cost is about 50% more, at $0.75 per marker.

3. Nutella Hazelnut Spread with Cocoa: $16.99

This delicious hazelnut chocolate spread is one of the world's most popular pantry foods. You can get two 33.5-ounce jars at Costco for just $16.99. In comparison, the cost at Walmart is $31.26, almost double that of Costco’s!

4. Costco bakery items

Costco's bakery offerings are one big reason why people love to shop there, as they can purchase high-quality fresh breads, pastries, cakes and more at a fraction of the price compared to other stores. Costco's popular croissants are only $4.99 for a dozen and its half-sheet cakes are $24.99. Costco's bakery offers great seasonal items in addition to its popular year-round favorites that will help keep your credit card bill in check.

5. Costco clothes

Costco sells over $7 billion in apparel each year. This represents more clothes than Old Navy or Neiman Marcus! While Costco sells its own private label Kirkland's clothing line, it also offers apparel from name brands including Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Eddie Bauer, Birkenstock, North Face, and more. Here are some of Costco's most popular clothing items under $20.

• Mondetta Ladies' Cargo Pocket Jogger: $18.99
• Eddie Bauer Men's Performance Jogger: $11.99
• Urban Star Men's Stretch Jean: $17.99
• Sage Ladies' Scuba Cozy Top: $16.99
• PUMA Ladies' Sports Bra, 3-pack: $15.99

Kirkland Signature products for under $20

Costco always has great deals on its popular Kirkland Signature items year-round. Kirkland is Costco's private label, known for its high quality and low prices. Since starting its Kirkland Brand in 1995, Costco has expanded it from 30 products to now over 350. Better yet, you may notice the familiar names of some of your favorite brands alongside Kirkland Signature on certain products. Here are just some of the most popular Kirkland items under $20. Prices may vary based on geographic region.

6. Kirkland Signature Liquid Fabric Softener: $12.99

Fabric softener helps prevent wrinkles and reduces static. Costco’s 187 oz. high efficiency (HE) fabric softener is enough for 220 loads, at $0.06 per wash load. In comparison, Downy’s liquid fabric softener costs $0.10 per load.

7. Kirkland Signature Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner

Kirkland Signature’s Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner sell for $11.99 apiece, or about $24 total. Each bottle is 33.8 fl oz and consists of an exclusive blend of Rainforest Botanical Extracts, plus avocado and argan oils. Other brands that offer similar products, such as L’Oreal Paris, sell for $18.99 for a 33.8 fl oz bottle at Walmart.

8. Kirkland Signature Bacon: $15.49

Bacon goes well with almost anything! Per Consumer Reports, Costco's Kirkland bacon was rated No. 1 in its taste test. The Kirkland Signature Bacon comes in four pre-sliced 1 lb packages, which is about $3.87 a pound. In comparison, the average cost per pound of bacon in the U.S. is $6.59, about 70% higher than Costco’s award-winning bacon.

9. Kirkland Signature Organic Animal Crackers: $13.49

Kirkland Signature Organic Animal Crackers are a delicious treat for kids and adults alike. Their flavor is simply amazing. The 4-pound jar is USDA certified organic and packed in the USA.

10. Kirkland Signature Maple Syrup: $14.99

Costco members can purchase a whopping 33.8 ounces for just $14.99, which comes out to about $0.44 per ounce. It is 100% pure grade A amber rich and USDA organic certified. In comparison, Costco's maple syrup costs about 40% less than a similar product on Amazon, which sells for $0.73 an ounce.

11. Kirkland Signature Batteries: $18.99

If you buy batteries frequently, then you know how expensive they can be. Luckily, Kirkland offers some high-quality batteries at a low price. In a 2016 interview, Costco CEO Craig Jelinek revealed that Duracell is the manufacturer of Kirkland Signature Batteries. A 48-count package of Kirkland Signature AA Alkaline Batteries costs $18.99, or $0.40 per battery. Duracell AA batteries are sold on Costco's website at $0.52 per battery.

12. Kirkland Signature Almond Milk: $14.99

Kirkland Signature's Almond Milk is an excellent choice for anyone looking to make a healthier switch to their diet. This beverage is made with California almonds and comes with many benefits like being vegan friendly, dairy-free, lactose and soy-free, and with no added sugar.

13. Kirkland Signature Rapid Release Acetaminophen: $17.99

Kirkland Signature's Extra Strength Acetaminophen Gelcaps are similar to Extra Strength Tylenol® Rapid Release but at a fraction of the cost. Kirkland Signature's over-the-counter medication is $0.05 per capsule, while the cost of a Tylenol capsule is $0.12, which is more than double the cost.

14. Kirkland Signature Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil: $19.49

Kirkland Signature Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is the perfect addition to any kitchen. It has a robust flavor that can enhance any dish, and it's organic, so you know you're getting a quality product at a low price.

15. Kirkland Signature Trail Mix: $15.99

Kirkland Signature Trail Mix is the perfect snack for anyone on the go. Loaded with protein and nutty goodness, this tasty blend of ingredients makes for a satisfying snack if you're looking for energy and flavor in a mix. Costco’s 4 lb bag comes in at $0.24 an ounce. The same bag on Walmart sells for $29.99, or $0.47 an ounce.

Members-only savings booklet

In addition to its already low prices, every month Costco sends out a monthly members-only savings book offering great deals available online and in-store. The savings booklet also includes unique offers that aren't available anywhere else, making it essential for any member serious about saving money and earning rewards. The digital edition is also regularly updated.

In addition to offering a selection of discounted items each month, there are also exclusive promotions available for a limited time. Better yet, Costco also offers members the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi, which allows cardholders to earn Costco cash rewards, helping you save even more. Cardholders can earn:

• 4% on eligible gas and EV charging for the first $7,000 in charges per year and then 1% thereafter
• 3% on restaurants and eligible travel
• 2% on purchases from Costco and Costco.com
• 1% on all other purchases

This credit card also doubles as a membership card.

Shopping at Costco is always a great way to save money, but these amazing finds under $20 prove that it's also possible to find high-quality products and stick to your budget. Being a Costco member comes with many benefits, including access to the members-only savings booklet. Whether you're stocking up on snacks or everyday essentials, there are plenty of bargains to be had at Costco.