If you’re a Costco member, then you know that the company offers a wide range of products at discounted prices. But did you know that Costco also has gas stations that offer some of the lowest gas prices in the country? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at everything you need to know about Costco gas stations, including the benefits of using them, how to use them, and some tips for getting the most out of your visit.
Costco operates more than 500 gas stations across the United States, and the company is known for offering some of the lowest gas prices in the country. In fact, according to GasBuddy, Costco consistently ranks as one of the cheapest places to buy gas in the United States. But how does Costco offer such low prices? The answer lies in the company’s business model. Costco operates on a membership model, which means that customers must pay an annual fee to access the store’s products and services. By doing so, Costco is able to keep prices low on everything from groceries to gasoline.
Benefits of Using Costco Gas Stations
One of the biggest benefits of using Costco gas stations is the low prices. According to a study by GasBuddy, Costco gas prices are, on average, 20 cents per gallon cheaper than the national average. This can add up to significant savings over time, especially if you’re someone who drives a lot. In addition to the low prices, Costco gas stations also offer high-quality gasoline that contains detergents to help clean your engine and improve fuel economy.
Another benefit of using Costco gas stations is the convenience. Most Costco gas stations are located adjacent to Costco stores, which means that you can easily fill up your car while you’re out running errands or doing your grocery shopping. In addition, Costco gas stations are typically open long hours, which means that you can fill up your car even if you’re running late or need to fill up after work.
How to Use Costco Gas Stations
Using a Costco gas station is easy. First, you’ll need to be a Costco member, as the gas stations are only available to members. Once you’re at the gas station, you’ll need to swipe your Costco membership card or enter your membership number into the pump. You’ll then be prompted to select the type of gasoline you want to purchase and the amount you want to buy.
After you’ve made your selection, you can begin filling up your car. It’s important to note that Costco gas stations only accept debit cards, Costco credit cards, and cash. If you’re paying with cash, you’ll need to go inside the Costco store to purchase a cash card before you can start filling up your car.
Tips for Using Costco Gas Stations
If you’re new to using Costco gas stations, there are a few tips that can help you get the most out of your visit. First, it’s important to note that Costco gas stations can be busy, especially on weekends and during peak travel times. To avoid long lines, try to fill up your car during off-peak hours, such as early in the morning or late at night.
Another tip is to keep an eye out for special promotions and discounts. Costco often runs promotions on gasoline, such as discounts on certain days of the week or cash back rewards for using a Costco credit card.
Finally, it’s important to pay attention to your fuel gauge and fill up your car before it’s too empty. Running your car on a nearly empty tank can cause damage to your fuel pump and reduce your car’s fuel efficiency. By filling up your car before it’s too empty, you’ll ensure that your car is running smoothly and efficiently.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Costco gas stations offer some of the lowest gas prices in the country and are a convenient option for Costco members who need to fill up their cars. By following a few simple tips, you can get the most out of your visit to a Costco gas station and save money on gas in the process. Whether you’re a frequent driver or someone who only fills up occasionally, a Costco gas station is a great option for anyone looking to save money on gas.
