BJ's vs. Costco

So, I've been a member of Costco for a year now and it has become (at least) a monthly pilgrimage. I put my favorites in a previous post HERE. It took me awhile to get used to "bulk" buying but after having kids, diapers and other essentials are just more sensible to buy in bulk. I love to cook but I hate food planning and shopping. I used to waste so much time in trips to the supermarket and frustration over missed items or having to visit three or four stores to get everything. 

But, recently when talking to different people about Costco I was surprised that many were former Costco users who now frequented BJ's. So, I had to check it out!

Here are my pro/cons list of each:

COSTCO

cons: 

--long lines, crowded

--only accept Amex or debit cards

--parking is a pain

--not all items available for sale on Sunday (at the Hackensack location)

--closes at 8:30pm weeknights

pros:

--great samples

--cakes and baked goods are tasty

--meat selection is very good

--bulk milk and orange juice (3-4packs)

--may be better choice, "deal-wise"

BJ's (I visited the new one in North Bergen)

pros:

--Open till 10pm on weeknights AND open on Sundays

--Lower tax on non food items

--Accepts manufacturer coupons

--Also sell non bulk items--saving you a trip to the local food shop for some items like fruits/vegetables.

--Baby food, Diaper genie refills, large selection of drinks

--Wide aisles so not too crowded

--LESS lines at checkout!

--Deli counter (it was a bit crowded when I was there--but great to have that option)

So, I just switched over to BJ's to try it out. I'm sure there will be more pros/cons in the future as I experience more. Who knows? maybe I'll switch back, but time will tell! Let me know which "team" you are on!

Comments

[generic viagra]

I had been a member of BJ's for quite a while now, it is a great place, much better than Costco.

[moby wrap]

Always read the ingredients before buying food for your little eons.

[Joohyon]

Hi Mira! Your site is so extremely helpful to myself & so many of my friends so THANK YOU! Great meeting you today. (I was the mom with the little girl in the school library today.)