If you’re already a Costco member, you likely know the great deals you can find inside the warehouse, and one of the most talked-about perks is Costco’s affordable gas. If you’re looking to save money on fuel for your daily commute or a weekend road trip, Costco gas stations are a great option.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Costco gas in Ontario, including hours of operation, prices, and payment methods so that you can make the most of this membership benefit.
Why Choose Costco Gas?
Costco gas stations are known for offering some of the lowest prices around. In fact, it’s not uncommon for Costco’s fuel prices to be several cents cheaper per litre compared to other gas stations in Ontario. This is particularly important as gas prices can fluctuate significantly across the province. By consistently offering low fuel prices, Costco helps its members save on one of the biggest everyday expenses.
Aside from the savings, Costco also prides itself on quality. The gas sold at Costco meets Top Tier standards, which means it contains detergents that help keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently. Many vehicles run better and last longer with high-quality fuel, which is another advantage when filling up at Costco.
Costco Gas Hours in Ontario
While most Costco locations have gas stations, their hours can vary slightly depending on the location. Generally speaking, Costco gas stations in Ontario are open earlier and close later than the warehouse itself, giving you plenty of time to fuel up whether it’s before or after your shopping trip.
Here are typical hours for most Costco gas stations in Ontario:
- Monday to Friday: 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
With these hours, you can fill up before heading to work or after a day of shopping. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your local Costco gas station for the exact hours, as they may vary slightly by location. You can usually find the most accurate information on Costco’s website or by giving the store a call.
Costco Gas Stations in Ontario
Costco offers quite a few gas stations throughout Ontario, but it could mean driving into a larger city to fuel up. Here’s an interactive map of the Costco gas stations across the province.
Costco Gas Prices in Ontario
When it comes to gas prices, Costco is hard to beat. In fact, the prices at Costco gas stations are consistently lower than most other stations. While prices can fluctuate depending on the market, Costco is known for offering the best rates. One of the reasons for this is that the company operates on a membership model- by cutting out the middleman and selling gas to members only, Costco can offer lower prices than other gas stations that serve the general public.
Another benefit of Costco gas stations is that they post daily gas prices on their website, so you can check before heading out. This is especially useful if you’re looking to save money by knowing when and where to fill up. It’s worth noting that Costco tends to have the same price across all locations within the same city or region in Ontario.
Payment Methods at Costco Gas
Unlike most other gas stations, Costco is a little more specific about which payment types they take. To fill up at one of its gas stations, you’ll need to have one of the following:
- Costco Membership Card: This is required to access the gas station. Only Costco members can fill up their tanks at Costco gas stations.
- Mastercard: Costco gas stations in Canada only accept Mastercard as a credit card option. If you typically use another type of credit card (like Visa or American Express), you’ll need to use a different payment method.
- Debit Cards: Most debit cards are accepted at Costco gas stations, which is convenient if you prefer to pay directly from your bank account.
- Costco Shop Card: You can also use a Costco Shop Card (a type of gift card) to pay for gas, as long as the balance on the card is sufficient to cover your purchase.
It’s important to remember that you can’t pay with cash at the pump, so be sure to have your membership card and a valid payment method with you when you arrive. If you don’t have a Mastercard, consider using your debit card or purchasing a Costco Shop Card ahead of time.
Using the Costco App for Contactless Payment
You can also streamline your experience at Costco gas stations by using the Costco app for contactless payment. The app allows you to manage your membership and payments conveniently from your phone, which can speed up the process and eliminate the need to handle physical cards or cash.
With the Costco app, you can:
- Link Your Credit or Debit Card: Once your payment method is linked, you can use your phone to pay at the pump. This is especially convenient if you prefer contactless payments and want to avoid using a card.
- Track Your Purchases: The app lets you view and manage your transaction history, making it easy to keep track of your fuel expenses and any other purchases you make at Costco.
- Receive Updates: You can stay informed about the latest gas prices and promotions, ensuring that you never miss an opportunity to save even more on fuel.
Using the pp is straightforward. Simply download it from the App Store or Google Play, link your membership card, and you’ll be able to pay at Costco gas stations quickly and securely without needing to touch a physical pump screen. By integrating contactless payments with your Costco experience, you’ll not only save money on fuel but also enjoy a more convenient, modern way to manage your purchases.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Costco Gas
While Costco gas stations are a great way to save money, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to make your experience as smooth as possible:
- Arrive Early or Late: Costco gas stations can get quite busy, especially during peak hours. If you want to avoid long lines, try to fill up early in the morning or later in the evening. Many stations open at 6:00 AM, so if you’re an early riser, you can beat the rush.
- Check the Daily Price: As mentioned earlier, Costco posts its daily gas prices online, so you can plan your visit when prices are lowest.
- Know Your Payment Options: Since Costco only accepts certain payment methods, it’s essential to be prepared. Make sure you have your membership card, a Mastercard, debit card, or Costco Shop Card on hand before heading to the pump.
- Keep Your Tank in Mind: Some Costco gas stations are designed for large vehicles, and the pumps are set further apart than at typical stations. If you have a smaller car, make sure you’re aware of how far your gas tank extends to ensure you can easily reach the pump.
Additional Perks of Costco Membership
In addition to the savings you get at the gas pump, a Costco membership comes with a host of other benefits. Whether you’re purchasing groceries, electronics, or home goods, Costco’s bulk pricing can help you save big on everyday essentials. For Ontario drivers, the added convenience of being able to fuel up while doing your shopping is a great time-saver.
Another benefit is that Costco often carries car-related products, like tires and motor oil, at discounted prices. So if you’re looking to do more than just fill up your gas tank, you can get other car necessities at competitive rates.
Save on Gas AND Keep Your Car Looking Great
Costco gas stations offer unbeatable value with lower prices, high-quality fuel, and convenient hours for their members. If you’re a Costco member in Ontario, it’s definitely worth taking advantage of this perk to keep your fuel costs down. While you’re saving on gas, don’t forget about keeping your car clean and looking sharp. Whether you need a deep interior clean or a full exterior detailing, Essential Auto Detailing can help. We offer professional vehicle cleaning and maintenance services to keep your car looking its best. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and give your car the care it deserves.