It’s a frustrating moment: you arrive at Costco, ready to shop, only to realize your membership card is sitting at home. Before you turn back, you should know that a forgotten card doesn’t have to ruin your shopping trip. Costco has several convenient solutions in place, from a handy mobile app to temporary passes available at the store. This guide will walk you through exactly what to do so you can still access those great deals.
What to do if You Forget Your Costco Card
Costco’s policy generally requires you to show your membership card for entry. This rule helps maintain the exclusivity and low prices that members pay for. However, employees understand that people occasionally forget things.
If you find yourself at the entrance without your card, don’t panic. The first step is to speak with the employee at the door. While they cannot simply let you in without verification, they can direct you to the membership services counter, where you have several options to prove you’re an active member and gain access to the store for the day.
Your best bet is to head straight to the customer service or membership desk. Be prepared to show a valid photo ID, such as your driver’s license. This allows the staff to look up your account, confirm your membership is in good standing, and help you with one of the solutions below.
Use the Costco App for a Digital Membership Card
By far the easiest and quickest solution is using the Costco mobile app. If you have your smartphone with you, you can access a digital version of your membership card in just a few taps. This digital card is accepted at the entrance and the checkout registers just like the physical one.
To use this feature, you must first have the app and a Costco.com account linked to your membership.
- Download the free Costco app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Sign in using your Costco.com email and password. If you don’t have an online account, you can create one through the app using your membership number.
- Once logged in, tap the “Membership Card” icon at the bottom of the screen.
- A QR code will appear, which serves as your digital card.
Setting up the app ahead of time is a great backup plan that ensures you’re never locked out. The digital card is a reliable way to shop without your physical card.
How to Get a Temporary Shopping Pass
If you don’t have the app or your phone, you can request a temporary shopping pass. This is a simple process that allows you to shop for the day without any hassle.
Simply go to the membership counter, which is usually located near the store’s entrance. Explain to the Costco employee that you forgot your card. They will ask for a valid photo ID to verify your identity and look up your membership account.
Once they confirm that your membership is active, they will print out a temporary pass for you. This paper pass is valid for one day and allows you to enter the store and make purchases. Keep in mind that this is intended for occasional use and not as a regular substitute for your card.
Shopping with a Friend Who Is a Member
Another easy way to shop without your card is to go with a friend or family member who is a Costco member. According to Costco’s policy, any member can bring guests into the warehouse with them.
This is a great option if you were already planning to shop together. You can browse the aisles and pick out your items as usual. However, there is one important limitation to remember.
Only the official Costco member is allowed to pay for the items at checkout. This means your friend will have to purchase everything, and you will need to pay them back. It’s a simple workaround, but it requires coordination.
Comparing Your Options When You Forget Your Card
With several choices available, you might wonder which one is best for your situation. Each method has its own benefits and requirements. The table below breaks down the most common solutions to help you decide quickly.
| Method | What You Need | Pros | Cons |
| Digital Card via App | Smartphone with Costco App | Quickest and most convenient solution | Requires setting up the app beforehand |
| Temporary Pass | Valid Photo ID | Works without a phone or app | Requires a stop at the membership desk |
| Go with a Member | A friend with a Costco card | Easy entry into the store | You cannot pay for your own items |
| Shop Online | Internet Access | No card or store visit needed | Possible 5% surcharge for non-members |
Tips to Avoid Forgetting Your Card in the Future
While it’s good to know you have options, the best strategy is to not forget your card in the first place. A few simple habits can help you keep your membership card on hand for every shopping trip.
Developing a routine is key. Always put your Costco card back in the same spot in your wallet or purse right after you use it. This muscle memory will reduce the chances of leaving it behind.
Here are a few other organizational tips:
- Use a Digital Wallet: Some smartphones allow you to add membership cards to a digital wallet app, making it even easier to access than a dedicated store app.
- Designate a Spot: Keep your card in a specific slot in your wallet that is only for your Costco card.
- Keep a Spare: If you have a second household card, consider leaving it in your car’s glove compartment as a permanent backup.
The most effective backup plan is to have the Costco app set up on your phone. It takes just a few minutes and can save you a lot of time and frustration later on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a picture of my Costco card on my phone?
No, a photo of your card is not considered valid proof of membership. You must use the official digital card available through the Costco mobile app, which generates a scannable QR code.
What should I do if I permanently lost my Costco card?
If you’ve lost your card, you can get a new one for free. Just visit the membership counter at any Costco location with a valid photo ID, and they will print a replacement card for you on the spot.
Can my spouse or family member use my card?
Costco’s policy states that only the person whose name and photo are on the card can use it. The only exception is the free household card that comes with your membership, which can be given to another person living at the same address.
Do I need my physical card to buy gas at Costco?
Most Costco gas stations require you to insert a physical membership card to activate the pump. However, some newer locations are equipped with scanners that can read the digital card’s QR code from the Costco app.
Is there a limit to how many temporary passes I can get?
Costco does not have an official limit on temporary passes. However, the service is designed for occasional forgetfulness. If you find yourself needing one frequently, an employee may recommend that you get a replacement card or set up the mobile app.
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