I’ve been shopping at Costco since I was a child, accompanying my parents on weekends to purchase bulk food, books, clothing, and Barbie dolls, while always looking forward to the classic $1.50 hot dog and soda combo for lunch.
Now, as an adult managing a household of two, I continue to rely on Costco for bulk staples. Here are the 10 items that consistently end up in my shopping cart.
Please note that prices may vary depending on your location.
Kirkland Signature toilet paper is an absolute essential for me.
While paper goods can be quite pricey at my local supermarket, Costco offers a much better deal. Although I opt for name-brand paper towels, I always choose Kirkland Signature toilet paper.
Since both my partner and I have sensitive stomachs, we are highly selective about the toilet paper we use. Nevertheless, I find that Kirkland Signature is comparable to the Angel Soft brand.
On my most recent visit, I purchased 30 rolls for $25.
Eggs represent an excellent value at Costco.
When the average price of a dozen eggs surged to a record-high $6.23 in early 2025, I turned to Costco for a more budget-friendly alternative.
Currently, I regularly buy the 24-count carton of large white eggs for $4.83, utilizing them for breakfast, snacks, and baking.
I always make sure to stock up on laundry detergent.
Laundry detergent is another staple I always purchase at Costco. The warehouse offers a wide selection of brands, including options for sensitive skin, which is my personal preference.
During this recent trip, I picked up a container of Tide Free and Gentle Pods.
Dishwasher detergent is also an incredible bargain.
I also buy my dishwasher detergent at Costco, which usually carries both liquid and pod varieties. I grabbed the Cascade Complete pods on sale for $14, which I felt was an excellent deal.
My husband is a big fan of Kirkland Signature canned tuna.
He loves canned tuna and claims that the Kirkland Signature albacore solid white variety is superior to other brands he has tried. He enjoys it in a sandwich with mayonnaise or simply served with crackers.
Chicken nuggets are a regular addition to my cart.
As a picky eater, I consume chicken nuggets multiple times a week. I prefer making the Dino Buddies variety in my toaster oven and pairing them with a side of rice or pasta.
I enjoy browsing for seasonal and novelty items.
My purchases often depend on what is currently in season or what unique items are available.
During this shopping trip, I bought Reese’s-inspired One-brand protein bars. Since my husband aims to maximize his protein intake and loves Reese’s, this was an easy choice.
White bread is another item I prefer to buy in bulk.
Since I eat a peanut butter sandwich almost every day for lunch, we go through bread very quickly.
Costco sells Pepperidge Farm white bread in a two-pack, which I always grab. This is especially true because the price for two loaves ($6.37) is comparable to the cost of a single loaf at other supermarkets.
I always explore the aisles for interesting beverage options.
Drinks are another category that frequently ends up in my cart. My husband typically drinks Gatorade to replenish his electrolytes after workouts, softball games, or jiu-jitsu sessions.
On this trip, I found a great deal on Starburst-flavored Sparkling Ice (on sale for $13) to accompany a new liquid medication I am taking.
Brami protein pasta is delicious.
Costco offers Brami protein pasta in bulk, which is a major win for me. It is the best-tasting protein pasta we have tried, and its texture is remarkably similar to regular pasta.
I like to serve it with tomato sauce as an easy way to boost our protein and fiber intake.
Are you curious about what other shoppers buy? Check out our other Costco diaries here.
This story was originally published on February 10, 2026, and most recently updated on September 22, 2026.