If you have a membership at Costco in 2026: Here are 3 things to buy first
Published by RawNews1st
Whether you just received a membership as a holiday present or you invested in yourself just in time for new year meal-prepping, we’re guessing you clicked on this article because you’re a new Costco member. If you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry.
Tinned fish is trendy for a reason. It’s not just a protein powerhouse; it’s loaded with omega-3-fatty acids for a brain-healthy, heart-friendly bite. That’s one of the reasons why Ball always has canned tuna on hand.
“I love all of their canned products because they’re easy to keep stocked without worrying about them going bad,” Ball explains, noting tuna to be a prime example. She also loves to have canned tomatoes, beans and sardines on standby for simple pantry dinners.
Registered dietitian and editor Emily Lachtrupp, M.S., RD, shares that she also loves stocking up on canned tuna because it makes for “such an easy, quick meal.” Put it to the test by trying our editor-loved 10-Minute Tuna Melt for lunch or dinner.
Balsamic Vinegar
Lachtrupp is a fan of grabbing some Kirkland Signature Organic Balsamic Vinegar whenever she’s making a Costco run. Per the dietitian, it’s “great quality at a really good price.”
Balsamic vinegar isn’t just a caprese salad staple, although it’s entirely needed for the summery dish. It can also be an elevating ingredient in salad dressings, protein marinades (like in our Balsamic Pork Tenderloin or Balsamic Marinated Chicken) or roasted veggies.
Wine
If you’re looking for a bottle for future gatherings—Super Bowl, Valentine’s Day, a post-Dry January celebration—then it’s a good time to grab wine on your first Costco trip. Our news editor Leah Goggins recommends going for Veuve Clicquot, which is a sommelier-recommended, higher-end Champagne worth cracking open.
“Costco has the best price I’ve ever found on Veuve, and it’s such an easy gift that works for most occasions,” Goggins shares. Alcohol should be consumed in moderation, so this bottle is best saved for a special occasion when you want something celebratory but crowd-pleasing.
