5 Upgrades That Waste Your Money

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I do much better at stores where I do not have to pay to shop there. With store promotions and sale prices, it is much cheaper to shop at other retailers. I feel it is very foolish to pay $40.00 for a membership. The selection is very poor, I prefer to have many choices. Many of the large packages are more expensive when compared to buying comparable regular size packages at other stores.

R Bradley of PA 3:49PM September 03, 2010

Why do some people constantly berate Costco members as being ill informed shoppers. I saved enough on my camera purchase to pay for half my membership. I also get rebates on what I buy, up to 4% on gasoline purchases with my Costco Amex Business Card. Costco also carries items under the Kirkland brand that are at least as good as national brands at a much lower price. BTW, I never found myself throwing out toilet paper because I bought too much.

Ibgpin of AZ 1:11PM September 03, 2010

Reward cards are great if you pay off your balance every month. I've been able to choose great rewards (including gift cards, travel, cash and cashback to whichever CC I'm using) over the years. It all comes down to how you manage your CCs. Be sure to find one that doesn't have an annual charge.

Also, shop wisely at Costco or similar warehouse stores and you shouldn't have any trouble. They are especially great over the holidays with food, toys, etc that you can't find anywhere else in your area. Moo is exactly right.

Jennifer of CA 12:46PM September 03, 2010

I have to agree with Moo of TX. I also find things I can't find at other stores.

Judy of MA 12:01PM September 03, 2010

Oh please... trying to diss Costco based on buying more toilet paper than you need at one time-try some other method. Other loser retailers feeling the pinch when you are outdone in customer focused service and marketing savvy, eh? Toilet paper will be used, and that purchase often goes towards a yearly rebate not to mention the researched quality items and no hassle return policy If a person tends to buy too much-their problem and it will be their problem no matter which store they use. At least at Costco one can have buyers remorse, return it without unwarranted hassles. Lame article

moo of TX 11:41AM September 03, 2010

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Alpha Consumer

Kimberly Palmer, senior editor for U.S. News & World Report, writes about making smarter financial decisions. She’s the author of Generation Earn: The Young Professional's Guide to Spending, Investing, and Giving Back.

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