Does Costco Sell Luggage? Your Expert Guide to Travel Prep
Yes, Costco absolutely sells luggage. However, like with many of their offerings, the selection and availability can fluctuate. From durable hardside suitcases to versatile softside sets and convenient carry-ons, Costco is often a surprisingly good place to score quality travel gear at a competitive price.
Unpacking the Costco Luggage Landscape
Think of Costco as a treasure hunt, but for travel essentials. Their luggage selection isn’t static; it rotates based on seasonality, current promotions, and manufacturer partnerships. One week you might find a stunning Ricardo Beverly Hills set, and the next, a robust Samsonite collection. This dynamic inventory is part of what makes shopping at Costco exciting, but it also means you need to be strategic if you’re on the hunt for specific luggage.
Brands You Might Encounter
Costco doesn’t consistently stock the same brands year-round, but here are some names that frequently pop up:
- Samsonite: A classic choice known for durability and reliability.
- Ricardo Beverly Hills: Offers stylish and functional luggage with thoughtful designs.
- Travelpro: A favorite among flight crews, known for its robust construction.
- Kirkland Signature: Costco’s own brand, often delivering exceptional value for the price.
- London Fog: Combines classic style with modern features.
Keep an eye out for these brands, but don’t be surprised to see others come and go. The best strategy is to visit your local Costco regularly or check their online inventory frequently.
What Kind of Luggage Can You Find?
Costco’s luggage offerings aren’t limited to just suitcases. You can often find:
- Luggage Sets: Bundled deals offering multiple suitcases, often including a carry-on and checked bags. These are excellent for families or frequent travelers.
- Carry-on Suitcases: Perfect for shorter trips or as an addition to your larger luggage collection.
- Checked Suitcases: Essential for longer journeys when you need to pack more.
- Garment Bags: Ideal for keeping formal wear wrinkle-free.
- Duffel Bags: Versatile for gym trips, weekend getaways, or as an extra bag.
- Travel Accessories: Sometimes, Costco stocks luggage scales, packing cubes, and other travel essentials.
The specific types available will vary, so check both in-store and online for the most up-to-date selection.
The Price Advantage: Why Costco Luggage is Worth Considering
One of the biggest draws of buying luggage at Costco is the price. Due to their bulk buying power, Costco can often offer significantly lower prices than department stores or specialty luggage retailers. You might find a comparable luggage set for hundreds of dollars less at Costco.
Quality is also a key factor. Costco typically partners with reputable brands known for their durability. While you might find cheaper luggage elsewhere, the investment in a Costco set is likely to pay off in the long run with bags that can withstand the rigors of travel.
Tips for Scoring the Best Luggage Deal at Costco
Finding the perfect luggage at Costco requires a bit of strategy:
- Shop Off-Season: Look for luggage deals during the off-season (fall and winter) when travel demand is lower.
- Monitor Online and In-Store: Check Costco.com and visit your local warehouse to compare selections and prices. Online often has a wider variety, while in-store deals can be surprisingly good.
- Read Reviews: Before committing to a purchase, read online reviews to get insights into the durability and functionality of the luggage.
- Consider the Return Policy: Costco is famous for its generous return policy. If you’re not completely satisfied with your luggage, you can return it for a full refund.
- Be Patient: The perfect luggage set might not be available on your first visit. Keep checking back, as Costco’s inventory changes frequently.
Costco Luggage: Is It Right for You?
Ultimately, whether or not Costco is the right place to buy your luggage depends on your needs and preferences. If you value competitive pricing, quality brands, and are flexible with selection, Costco is definitely worth considering. If you need a very specific brand or style, you might have better luck at a specialty retailer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Costco offer a warranty on their luggage?
Generally, yes. Luggage purchased at Costco often comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. Additionally, Costco’s generous return policy can act as an extended warranty in some cases. Be sure to check the specific warranty details for the brand and model you’re considering.
2. Can I buy luggage at Costco without being a member?
In most cases, no. You generally need a Costco membership to purchase items in their warehouses. However, you might be able to purchase luggage on Costco.com without a membership in some rare instances, but this is not typical and often includes a surcharge. Check the website for current policies.
3. What are the typical dimensions of carry-on luggage sold at Costco?
While dimensions can vary slightly by brand and model, Costco typically sells carry-on luggage that adheres to standard airline size restrictions, usually around 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Always double-check the specific dimensions before flying, as airline regulations can change.
4. Does Costco sell packing cubes?
Occasionally, yes. Costco sometimes stocks packing cubes, either as part of a luggage set or as a separate item. These can be incredibly helpful for organizing your belongings and maximizing space.
5. How often does Costco change its luggage selection?
Costco’s inventory is dynamic, so luggage selection can change every few weeks or months. It’s best to check regularly if you’re looking for something specific. Sales events, like those around holidays, often bring in new luggage options.
6. Are the luggage sets at Costco good quality?
In general, yes. Costco typically partners with reputable luggage brands known for their quality and durability. Look for brands like Samsonite, Ricardo Beverly Hills, and Travelpro. Reading online reviews can also provide insights into the quality of specific sets.
7. Can I return luggage to Costco if I don’t like it?
Yes, one of the great advantages of shopping at Costco is their generous return policy. If you’re not satisfied with your luggage for any reason, you can typically return it for a full refund. However, be sure to check their current return policy details for any specific restrictions.
8. Does Costco sell luggage scales?
Sometimes. Keep an eye out in the travel accessories section, especially around peak travel seasons. A luggage scale is a valuable tool for avoiding overweight baggage fees at the airport.
9. What is the best time of year to buy luggage at Costco?
Off-season (fall and winter) is often the best time to find luggage deals at Costco. You might also find good prices during holiday sales events.
10. Does Costco offer discounts on luggage for seniors or students?
Costco does not typically offer specific discounts for seniors or students on luggage. However, their overall prices are often competitive enough to make them a good deal, regardless of age or student status.
11. Can I find hardside and softside luggage at Costco?
Yes, Costco typically carries both hardside and softside luggage options. Hardside luggage offers greater protection for fragile items, while softside luggage is often more lightweight and flexible.
12. Does Costco offer free shipping on luggage purchased online?
Shipping policies can vary, but Costco often offers free shipping on luggage purchased online, especially for larger items like luggage sets. Be sure to check the shipping details on the product page before making a purchase.
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