North Dakota: 4 Ways You Can Shop At Costco W/Out A Membership

I still remember when Costco first came to Bismarck a few years ago.

The excitement was felt throughout the community as the walls of Costco began to take shape.  As a media member, I was one of the first people in the city to step inside the new Bismarck Costco, known for electronics, groceries, small appliances, and so many other products at warehouse prices.

If you like shopping and buying in bulk, it's tough to beat Costco for savings.

The only catch is that they do require a membership that costs money to shop at their store.  The $60 dollar yearly membership is a deal breaker for some.  For many, the yearly savings from buying in bulk more than offset the $60 dollar membership.

If you fall into the category of not wanting to shell out the $60 dollars every year there is a way to still take advantage of the Costco Savings.

#1 Buy Gift Cards.

Either a member will purchase a gift card and give it as a gift to you, or you could ask a member to purchase a gift card and sell it to you.  Of course, you will be limited to whatever the dollar amount of the gift card is.  For a one-time purchase, this might be the way to go.  Especially, if it's a bigger item.

#2 Shop online. 

There's a loophole for you.  This seems like the most obvious way to go if you want to get around the $60 dollar membership.  Shop online in the comfort of your own home and have it delivered to your home.  Non-members will see a 5% surcharge.

#3 Shop the liquor store and pharmacy.

Not all employees of Costco may know this, and you may have to ask for a manager, but supposedly you don't need a membership to shop in these two areas inside of Costco.

#4 Member brings in a friend or two.

This is something that is accepted at Costco as they're always looking for new members.  The only catch is the member will have to make the purchases.

There you go, 4 widely accepted ways to shop at Costco in Bismarck without a membership.  By the way, Costco in Bismarck is located up north at 1325 57th Avenue Northeast.