Worst time to shop at Costco may be when you least expect it, with one day drawing the most crowds

Sunday afternoons, particularly from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., are identified as the busiest times to shop at Costco, often resulting in chaotic experiences and long lines. For a more peaceful shopping trip and potentially fuller shelves, weekdays such as Tuesday or Wednesday are recommended, with early mornings or late evenings being ideal. Shopping the day before a holiday, especially if the store is closed on the holiday itself, can also lead to high shopper volume.

• Sunday afternoons (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) are considered the worst times to shop at Costco due to large crowds.
• Weekdays, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays, are generally better for shopping, with earlier in the day being preferable.
• Shopping early in the morning or late in the evening on weekdays (e.g., after 6:30 p.m. on a weeknight) can lead to fewer crowds.
• To ensure fully stocked shelves, aim for Tuesdays or Wednesdays as supplies are most likely replenished then.
• High shopper volume is likely the day before a holiday, especially if the store is closed on that holiday.