Let me tell you, upgrading my basic Costco membership to the swanky Executive level felt like a boss move in the realm of personal finance. For a cool $120 a year (twice the cost of a regular membership), I get the royal treatment. Well, kind of.
Here’s the scoop: with my Executive membership, I score a sweet 2% cash back on all my Costco hauls. And since I practically live at Costco, I easily rake in over $100 in cash back every year. That extra $60 fee? Totally worth it.
But hold onto your shopping carts, folks. While being an Executive member has its perks, there are a few unexpected hiccups you might encounter along the way. Here are the not-so-obvious drawbacks you need to know about:
1. The Temptation to Splurge
Picture this: you’re strolling through the aisles of Costco, minding your own business. Suddenly, you spot a fleece sweatshirt that you definitely don’t need. But hey, it’s got that sweet 2% cash back allure. Next thing you know, you’re justifying the purchase like a pro.
Yep, that’s the danger of the Executive membership. It might nudge you into spending more just to beef up that cash back reward. It’s like a siren song luring you into the sea of overspending. Resist the urge, my friend. Your wallet will thank you.
2. Some Purchases Don’t Cash In
So, you’re gleefully loading up your cart with goodies, dreaming of all the cash back you’ll score. But hold up—certain items are off-limits for that sweet 2%. Gas fill-ups? Nope. Cigarettes? Nah. Alcohol? Maybe, depending on where you live. It’s like finding out the dessert buffet is off-limits after you’ve filled your plate with salad.
And let’s not forget about Costco’s legendary cheap gas. It’s a real bummer that you won’t be cashing in on those savings with your Executive membership.
3. No More VIP Shopping Hours
Once upon a time, being an Executive member meant you got to strut into Costco before the riff-raff arrived. But alas, those glory days are over. No more skipping the crowds like a shopping ninja.
I don’t know about you, but I’m not a fan of navigating through hordes of people while I shop. It’s like a marathon just to snag a pack of toilet paper. But fear not, my fellow anti-crowd comrades. I’ve discovered that Costco tends to be quieter in the evenings. So if you’re free after sundown, you might just dodge the shopping chaos.
In the end, I’m sticking with my Executive membership. It’s like having a secret key to Costco’s treasure trove. But hey, forewarned is forearmed. So, if you’re eyeing that upgrade, just keep these quirks in mind. Happy shopping, my savvy spenders!
