Costco’s stricter sample policy is here—but staff say these tips still work
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If wandering through Costco and enjoying a few free bites along the way is your idea of a perfect shopping day, you’re not alone.
For many members, those iconic samples are a small but delightful perk of the warehouse experience.
But recently, some changes have been made—especially affecting younger shoppers.
The good news? The samples are still there, but you may need to approach the table a little differently.
Here’s what’s changed, and how seasoned Costco fans (and even employees) say you can still enjoy the freebies without missing a beat.
What’s new with Costco’s sample policy?
First, let’s clear up what the rule actually is.
Costco hasn’t taken samples away from adults—it’s just made a change to how children can access them.
Now, if a child wants to try a sample, they must be accompanied by an adult who is physically in line with them.
That means no more sending the kids off to grab snacks on their own while you’re picking out paper towels.
It’s a small shift for most families, but solo teens might be a bit disappointed.
For everyone else, the free bites are still available—as long as you follow a few unspoken rules of the sample world.
Also read: Costco makes a quiet change to its free samples—and some families may feel it most
How to get the most out of your sample run
Costco workers, both past and present, have shared a few favorite hacks to help you make the most of your sample stroll—even with the new rules.
1. Visit on weekends for the full experience
If you want to enjoy the widest variety of samples, aim for Saturday or Sunday.
That’s when Costco tends to set up the most sample stations across the store.
From frozen appetizers to baked goods and dips, weekends offer a kind of sample buffet.
Also read: Costco shopper shares “secret code” for cheaper meds—members say they’re stunned
2. Go early in the week for calmer crowds
Looking for a quieter trip?
Monday and Tuesday tend to be less crowded.
You may not find as many stations set up, but you’ll have better chances of grabbing seconds (or thirds) without long lines or elbow traffic.
3. Aim for 1 to 2 p.m. to hit the sweet spot
There’s a little-known window when all the sample stations are fully staffed—around 1 or 2 p.m. on weekends.
This is when both morning and afternoon sample shifts overlap, so you’ll get maximum variety without arriving at the store’s busiest hours.
Also read: How much can you really save at Costco? This new analysis breaks it down
Sample etiquette matters more than ever
The people handing out samples are often third-party staff—not Costco employees—and they’ve seen it all.
Following a few basic courtesies helps everyone enjoy their shopping experience:
Also read: Are you missing out on a secret $150 Costco credit with this membership upgrade?
Not everyone loves the sample crowd
While many of us look forward to those little bites, some shoppers have voiced frustrations online.
Complaints include long lines, limited variety, and concerns over hygiene.
A few even say they’d be happier if samples disappeared entirely (though we can’t say we agree).
And yes, sample tables have occasionally been the source of drama—rude behavior, disagreements, and even membership warnings over aggressive behavior or checkout issues.
Recent policy updates like photo ID checks for membership cards have added a new layer of structure at the warehouse, which some appreciate and others question.
Samples may be small, but they offer a sense of discovery and joy during an otherwise routine shopping trip.
You might stumble across your next favorite granola bar, find a new dinner shortcut, or just enjoy a warm mini bite on a cold day.
It’s all part of the Costco experience—and even with a few new rules, it’s still worth showing up for.
Read next: Shock as Costco limits THIS unexpected item—is your favorite product next?
Do you have a favorite Costco sample? Have you ever planned your shopping time just to catch a specific treat—or accidentally walked away with something new just because you liked the taste?
Whether it’s a fond memory or a funny mishap, we’d love to hear it. Share your experiences and sample strategies in the comments!
For many members, those iconic samples are a small but delightful perk of the warehouse experience.
But recently, some changes have been made—especially affecting younger shoppers.
The good news? The samples are still there, but you may need to approach the table a little differently.
Here’s what’s changed, and how seasoned Costco fans (and even employees) say you can still enjoy the freebies without missing a beat.
Costco shoppers are still finding ways to enjoy free samples—despite a few new rules. Image Source: YouTube / TODAY.
What’s new with Costco’s sample policy?
First, let’s clear up what the rule actually is.
Costco hasn’t taken samples away from adults—it’s just made a change to how children can access them.
Now, if a child wants to try a sample, they must be accompanied by an adult who is physically in line with them.
That means no more sending the kids off to grab snacks on their own while you’re picking out paper towels.
It’s a small shift for most families, but solo teens might be a bit disappointed.
For everyone else, the free bites are still available—as long as you follow a few unspoken rules of the sample world.
Also read: Costco makes a quiet change to its free samples—and some families may feel it most
How to get the most out of your sample run
Costco workers, both past and present, have shared a few favorite hacks to help you make the most of your sample stroll—even with the new rules.
1. Visit on weekends for the full experience
If you want to enjoy the widest variety of samples, aim for Saturday or Sunday.
That’s when Costco tends to set up the most sample stations across the store.
From frozen appetizers to baked goods and dips, weekends offer a kind of sample buffet.
Also read: Costco shopper shares “secret code” for cheaper meds—members say they’re stunned
2. Go early in the week for calmer crowds
Looking for a quieter trip?
Monday and Tuesday tend to be less crowded.
You may not find as many stations set up, but you’ll have better chances of grabbing seconds (or thirds) without long lines or elbow traffic.
3. Aim for 1 to 2 p.m. to hit the sweet spot
There’s a little-known window when all the sample stations are fully staffed—around 1 or 2 p.m. on weekends.
This is when both morning and afternoon sample shifts overlap, so you’ll get maximum variety without arriving at the store’s busiest hours.
Weekday visits often mean fewer crowds—and an easier path to the sample table. Image Source: Pexels / MART PRODUCTION.
Also read: How much can you really save at Costco? This new analysis breaks it down
Sample etiquette matters more than ever
The people handing out samples are often third-party staff—not Costco employees—and they’ve seen it all.
Following a few basic courtesies helps everyone enjoy their shopping experience:
- Don’t grab before being offered. Touching trays or utensils prematurely may lead to the entire batch being tossed for safety.
- Say thank you. A smile and a quick thanks go a long way.
- No double-dipping. Take your sample and keep it moving to avoid clogging up the area.
Also read: Are you missing out on a secret $150 Costco credit with this membership upgrade?
Not everyone loves the sample crowd
While many of us look forward to those little bites, some shoppers have voiced frustrations online.
Complaints include long lines, limited variety, and concerns over hygiene.
A few even say they’d be happier if samples disappeared entirely (though we can’t say we agree).
And yes, sample tables have occasionally been the source of drama—rude behavior, disagreements, and even membership warnings over aggressive behavior or checkout issues.
Recent policy updates like photo ID checks for membership cards have added a new layer of structure at the warehouse, which some appreciate and others question.
Samples may be small, but they offer a sense of discovery and joy during an otherwise routine shopping trip.
You might stumble across your next favorite granola bar, find a new dinner shortcut, or just enjoy a warm mini bite on a cold day.
It’s all part of the Costco experience—and even with a few new rules, it’s still worth showing up for.
Read next: Shock as Costco limits THIS unexpected item—is your favorite product next?
Do you have a favorite Costco sample? Have you ever planned your shopping time just to catch a specific treat—or accidentally walked away with something new just because you liked the taste?
Whether it’s a fond memory or a funny mishap, we’d love to hear it. Share your experiences and sample strategies in the comments!
