If you choose links we provide, we may receive compensation.
You want to avoid the crowds, get the freshest food and still hit up the sample stations?
Weve got tips for every angle.

Getty Images
I love a good Costco haul, but sometimes shopping at the retail giant can feel overwhelming.
So before you head to the store, check out these hot tips.
But there are some ways to dodge at least some of the other eager shoppers.
And that makes sense.
Go First Thing in the Morning
Get in and get out.
That’s what the morning shop is all about.
You may see a lineup at the door in the morning, but don’t let that discourage you.
Another shared that they preferred weeknights, in general, “because it’s empty.”
But that might not be the case in every location.
It’s the perfect way to taste-test new products before making a commitment to a bigger purchase.
A variety of samples are offered every day of the week.
Early in the day or shortly before closing, sample stations are usually being set up or taken down.
Aside from these small windows of time, you should be able to get those goods!
In that case, arriving early will give you the first pass at the deals for the day.
These coupons are not ones you gotta clip.
They’re called “Instant Savings” and the deductions happen automatically as you’re checking out.
But learning when to snap up those deals is a bit of an art form.
On the other hand, you also don’t want to wait too long.
The protein and collagen were going to be restocked, but the pans were gone entirely.
And in this case, there was a product shortage.
They were eventually restocked, but much to my chagrin, it was at the regular price.
Bottom line: If there’s something that you really want, don’t sleep on it!
If you’re wavering on a product, several insiders advised that you should “just buy it.”
Costco also offersprice adjustmentsto changes in pricing on purchases made within 30 days prior.
So if the level of freshness isn’t up to snuff, speak to customer service.
You might have to do some experimentation to see what the freshest foods are at your store!
“People get mad at us for that,” a staff member lamented.
But, “it’s [the] law.”
Depending on the time and day, these lanes could have much longer lineups.
One insider said it perfectly, “Shoppers should come with patience.
Costco is an experience.”
Costco is known for having good deals on a variety of higher-quality products.
It can be a one-stop shop for anything from groceries to personal care items, to electronics and appliances.
They have an excellent return policy and they offer samples almost every day.
They tick a lot of the boxesvariety, quality and keeping your bank accounts in good shape.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the least crowded days, according to several Costco staff I spoke to.
Fridays are busier because of those stock-up-for-the-weekend shoppers.
Mondays can be hit or miss, depending on the location.
But definitely avoid the weekends.
As one insider said, “If you want to experience war, definitely recommend Sundays!”