Black Friday Costco Shopping Pitfall: These 5 Types of Products Seem Cheap but Are Actually the Biggest Waste of Money

Black Friday at Costco is like opening Noah’s Ark—everything you want to stuff into your shopping cart. But don’t be blinded by the overwhelming discounts—many “great deals” are actually money black holes, especially for retirees, and buying the wrong items could set you back for months.

1. Large quantities of perishable foods: Looks cheap, but easily spoiled and wasted

Milk, vegetables, baked goods—these don’t last long. An 18-pack of Horizon milk may seem incredibly cheap, but if your household doesn’t consume that much, it’ll turn into trash in a few weeks. Many retirees get lured by the “bargain” of bulk items, only to find most of it expired. Instead, it’s better to buy smaller quantities at regular supermarkets or opt for frozen foods, which can save real money.

2. Mattresses: Spring is truly the cheap season

Planning to buy a new mattress on Black Friday? Wait—this might not be the best time. Mattresses have their own sales cycles. While there are discounts during the holidays, the best prices are actually in spring, around April and May. That Tempur-Pedic priced at $1,899.99 on Black Friday might be several hundred dollars cheaper come spring. Also, Costco’s mattress stock is limited. If you really need a mattress, go to a specialized store instead of relying on temporary deals.

3. Fitness equipment: The easiest to gather dust New Year’s resolution

“This year, I’ll stick to my fitness plan”—how many times have you heard that? Buying a treadmill or NordicTrack exercise bike ($1,299.99) at home often ends up as a clothes hanger in winter. Once New Year’s resolutions are over, it just gathers dust in the corner. Instead of spending a lot on equipment, consider a gym membership. Pushing yourself to go out in winter is more reliable. Many gyms waive initiation fees in January, and monthly fees are affordable.

4. Electronics: Cheap often comes with pitfalls

The discounts on electronics during Black Friday are tempting. But don’t be fooled by the price—many are from unknown brands, like that iHome Bluetooth speaker ($29.99), which is low quality and has poor warranty. While Costco’s electronics seem incredibly cheap, problems can arise quickly, and you might regret it later.

5. Jewelry: Buying in winter is a loss

Jewelry makes popular gifts, and there are Black Friday discounts at Costco. But these aren’t the biggest deals—real jewelry sales happen in summer. That Three Stone pendant priced at $1,499.99 with a $500 discount looks like a bargain, but you could save even more in summer. Unless you need to give a gift during the holidays, it’s better to wait a few months.

Key advice: Not all Black Friday deals are truly bargains. Especially for retirees, a single bulk purchase gone wrong could wipe out a month’s budget. Before shopping, ask yourself three questions: Do I really need this? Is there a cheaper season? Will I regret this in three months?