Costco

Boxes of consumer goodies are stacked as high as the eye can see at this international chain store

by Saira Masood

In Short
Formerly known as the Price Club, this large membership-only warehouse is chock-full of almost any consumer product under the sun-in bulk, of course. With goods ranging from high-end electronics to outdoor furniture to fresh lobster, this wholesale superstore has got it (lots and lots of it!). While the high-volume and low prices appeals mainly to families and business, it's not uncommon to find college students trolling the various aisles for free food samples. The various membership options offer a range of plans, all reasonably priced. A word of warning to shopaholics: If you leave home without a list, you might spend more than you bargained for with all the deals offered.