Holiday Hours: How to Plan Your Shopping at Walmart and Costco
Shopping during the holiday season at Walmart and Costco requires strategic planning to avoid long lines and out-of-stock items. Here are tips for a smoother experience:
1. Check Special Holiday Hours: Both stores may have reduced or extended hours during holidays, so verify opening times on their official websites.
2. Shop Early or Late: Visit early mornings or late evenings for fewer crowds.
3. Use Online Services: Walmart and Costco offer curbside pickup and delivery, saving you time during busy days.
4. Plan Ahead for Major Holidays: Stock up before major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas when stores may close early or have limited hours.
5. Membership Perks: For Costco members, take advantage of exclusive hours to beat the rush.
Check Special Holiday Hours:
Walmart and Costco adjust their hours around major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's. Here’s what you should do:
1. Visit Official Websites: Both retailers post updated holiday hours in advance. Walmart often extends hours leading up to holidays but closes early on Christmas. Costco usually follows a similar pattern but may close completely on certain holidays like Thanksgiving.
2. Use Store Locator: Both stores offer a "Store Locator" tool on their websites where you can find holiday hours specific to your nearest location.
3. Call Local Stores: Sometimes, individual stores may have different schedules, so it’s helpful to call ahead.
By staying updated on store hours, you can avoid frustration and ensure a smoother shopping experience during the holiday rush.
Shop Early or Late:
To avoid the holiday rush, shopping early in the morning or late in the evening at Walmart or Costco can make a big difference. Early shoppers often enjoy freshly stocked shelves and shorter lines, especially for high-demand items. Shopping late, near closing time, also offers a quieter environment as most people finish their shopping earlier in the day.
Walmart stores typically open as early as 6 or 7 AM, while Costco opens around 10 AM. Closing times vary, but shopping within the first or last hour of operation is ideal for a less stressful experience.
Use Online Services:
Both Walmart and Costco offer convenient online services that can enhance your holiday shopping experience.
1. Curbside Pickup: Place your order online and have it brought directly to your car. This saves time and minimizes in-store shopping during busy hours.
2. Delivery Options: Walmart provides home delivery for groceries and other products, allowing you to shop from the comfort of your home.
3. Online Inventory: Check product availability online before heading to the store to ensure the items you want are in stock.
Using these services can help streamline your shopping and reduce stress during the holidays.
Plan Ahead for Major Holidays:
Planning ahead is essential for a successful shopping experience during major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's.
1. Create a Shopping List: Identify essential items you need to avoid last-minute stress.
2. Shop Early: Start shopping weeks in advance to ensure you get everything on your list.
3. Watch for Sales: Take advantage of pre-holiday sales to save money.
4. Know Store Policies: Be aware of return and exchange policies, especially for gifts.
By planning ahead, you can navigate holiday shopping efficiently and reduce stress.
Membership Perks:
Having a Costco membership offers unique advantages during the holiday season. Members often get exclusive access to special promotions, discounts, and extended hours. Additionally, Costco provides early access to holiday sales events, ensuring you can snag popular items before they sell out. For those shopping in bulk, the membership allows you to save significantly on essentials, making it easier to prepare for holiday gatherings. Utilize these perks to maximize your shopping efficiency and savings!
FAQs about Holiday Hours: How to Plan Your Shopping at Walmart and Costco
Q1: What are the holiday hours for Walmart and Costco?
A1: Holiday hours vary by location. It’s best to check the official websites for specific times.
Q2: When is the best time to shop during the holidays?
A2: Early mornings and late evenings are typically less crowded.
Q3: Are there any special promotions for members?
A3: Yes, Costco members often enjoy exclusive deals and early access to sales.
Q4: Can I use curbside pickup during the holidays?
A4: Yes, both Walmart and Costco offer curbside pickup options for convenience.