You can shop at Costco without a membership for specific items
- Costco restricts most sales to members but allows some purchases without a membership.
- Nonmembers can enter Costco by stating their purpose, such as picking up prescriptions.
- While options are limited, certain products like prescriptions and alcohol can be obtained without a membership.
In the United States, Costco is a popular wholesale retail chain known for its membership requirements. However, nonmembers can still purchase certain items, like prescriptions and alcohol, under specific conditions. Costco has been more stringent in allowing free shopping passes lately, but individuals can enter the warehouse by communicating the purpose of their visit, such as picking up a prescription or exploring the alcohol aisles. In states like California and New York, buying alcohol without a membership is permitted, although a supervisor's approval may be necessary at checkout. Furthermore, all Costco locations with pharmacies allow anyone to buy prescription medications, which can lead to significant savings for those without health insurance. Additionally, eye exams can also be obtained without a membership, although buying prescription glasses or contacts requires one. Overall, while Costco primarily caters to members, certain essential services remain accessible to the general public. This provides a limited opportunity for nonmembers to benefit from Costco's discounts on drugs and alcohol, reinforcing the importance of pharmacy access in healthcare.