This Is the Best Time to Score Costco Samples, According to a Shopping Expert

Costco’s free samples are a beloved perk for members, offering a chance to try new products without committing to a full-size purchase. But timing your visit can make a big difference in the variety and availability of these tasty freebies.

Peak Costco Sample Times

For the most extensive selection of samples, visiting Costco on weekends, particularly between 1 and 2 p.m., is highly recommended. This timeframe coincides with peak hours when most sample stations are fully operational, giving shoppers access to a wide array of products.

“Weekends are a good time for the best selection of samples," says personal finance expert Gina Zakaria.

Zakaria found that the best samples were present on Saturdays. She says she likes to go around noon, while samples are available, but the rush hasn’t quite started yet.

What Food Is Usually Sampled?

“Prepared foods and snacks are showcased during the back-to-school season. Cheese, desserts, and appetizer-type samples are usually offered around holiday seasons in late fall and early spring," Zakaria said. "And the summertime usually comes with grillable foods, easy on-the-go snacks, and health-related foods are sampled."

TikTokers Have Thoughts

TikTok user Michelle Brown (@missbedhead) highlighted the above period as optimal for sampling, noting all food demo shifts are active during these hours. Her video showed a bustling floor with dozens of sample stations in full swing, offering a wide range of items, from cheeses and snacks to prepared foods. She emphasized that arriving around this time ensures shoppers encounter both popular items and seasonal specials that might not be available at other hours.

“Most shoppers tend to come on Saturdays from 1-3 p.m., so shopping a little earlier or later will help you avoid the crowds while still getting a variety of samples,” Zakaria says.

What Reddit Has to Say

Reddit users consistently share the same advice. On r/Costco, one commenter noted that Sunday midday has been “the most fruitful” for samples, while another highlights that Saturdays and Sundays afternoons are generally the best. Users report seeing as many as 20 sample stations depending on the location and time, with larger portions during special events. Another Redditor humorously referred to it as “the Costco buffet,” highlighting the variety and abundance available during peak weekends.

Reddit threads suggest that early in the week, some stations may focus on rotating or less popular items, allowing members to sample products they might otherwise overlook

Weekday Alternatives

If you prefer a quieter shopping experience, Mondays and Tuesdays work. While the variety of samples may be more limited compared to weekends, these weekdays offer a more relaxed atmosphere and a better chance to explore without crowds. Thursdays and Fridays, though, offer a greater selection.

“Mondays and Tuesdays tend to be slow, so there are many fewer sample options on those days. Thursday and Friday late afternoons have a good selection, and sometimes you can get slightly bigger portions as they’re wrapping up in the evening,” Zakaria said.

Avoiding Crowds Entirely

For those who want to avoid crowds altogether, visiting during late evening hours can be a strategic move. Fridays around 7:00 p.m. are recommended by some Redditors as a more peaceful time, allowing for a relaxed pace while still catching some of the later sample offerings. While the variety may be narrower than on weekends, evening visits can be ideal for those balancing busy schedules or looking for a low-stress shopping trip.

Maximizing Your Sampling Experience

To make the most of your Costco sample runs, consider a few simple strategies:

• Arrive early during peak hours: Sample stations are usually set up by late morning, but arriving around 1–2 p.m. ensures the widest selection of options. TikTok videos confirm that stations are fully staffed and ready for the afternoon rush.
  
• Engage with demonstrators: Interacting with staff can provide valuable insights into the products and services they offer.
  
• Plan: Checking with staff or online communities for sample schedules can help you target your favorite items. Some Redditors track weekly rotations or note increased sample activity before holidays.
  
• Combine sampling with smart shopping: Use the sampling experience to identify products you might want to buy in bulk. For singles or small households, tasting first helps avoid waste and allows for selecting favorites for future shopping trips.