Costco can feel like a treasure hunt. One minute you’re buying oats and tofu… and the next you’re leaving with a giant bag of snacks you didn’t plan for. If you’re vegan (or just trying to eat more plant-based meals), Costco can be a great place to stock up — as long as you shop with a plan.
This guide focuses on the best types of vegan products to look for and the simple tricks that make a Costco trip actually save you money.
Why Costco is great for vegan shopping
Costco is best for things you use again and again — the kind of food that helps you build easy vegan meals at home.
Think:
- big pantry staples
- freezer-friendly proteins
- simple snacks
- plant-based swaps (like non-dairy milk or vegan dips)
Because Costco changes items often, the smartest approach is to shop by category, not brand.
Costco rules that keep you from overspending
These rules are simple, but they work:
- Only buy what you already use
If you wouldn’t buy it at a regular store, don’t buy a giant version of it. - Be realistic about fridge/freezer space
Costco is amazing… until you get home and can’t fit anything in. - Plan for produce before you buy it
If it will spoil fast (like leafy greens), make a plan to use it in the next few days. - Store food properly
Use airtight containers for dry goods so they stay fresh (and so pantry bugs don’t move in). - Bring a cooler + ice packs if you drive far
This keeps frozen items frozen and dairy-free yogurts safe on the way home.
Best vegan products at Costco: what to look for
Vegan produce staples
Look for big-value basics that make meals easy:
- leafy greens (spinach, mixed greens)
- broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms
- sweet potatoes, squash, zucchini
- berries (fresh or frozen)
- dates (great for snacks and smoothies)
Tip: if greens start to look tired, cook them. If they’re too far gone for cooking, freeze for smoothies.
Best vegan proteins at Costco
These usually save you the most money:
- tofu (often sold in multipacks)
- tempeh (when available)
- canned beans and lentils
- frozen edamame
- plant-based “meat” options (these rotate a lot)
Tip: if you buy frozen proteins, portion them when you get home so you can grab what you need fast.
Vegan dairy alternatives
Costco is often great for:
- non-dairy milks (oat, soy, almond, coconut, etc.)
- plant-based yogurts
- vegan cheese slices/shreds (varies by location)
Tip: always scan ingredients for “milk, whey, casein, lactose” — those are the common non-vegan surprises.
Ready-to-eat vegan-friendly helpers
These save time on busy days:
- grain salads / bean salads (check ingredients)
- hummus and other dips (watch for dairy)
- salsa / pico de gallo / guacamole
- soups, chili, or lentil-based meals (check labels)
Frozen vegan favorites
The freezer section is where Costco can really shine:
- frozen fruit (smoothies, baking)
- frozen veggies (quick dinners)
- veggie spring rolls / dumplings (check for egg)
- plant-based mains (these rotate often)
Tip: frozen basics (fruit/veg) are usually the most reliable evergreen win.
Pantry staples that build easy meals
These are the “boring” things that make vegan life easy:
- oats, rice, quinoa, pasta
- nut butters and seed butters
- nuts and seeds (chia, hemp, pumpkin seeds)
- olives, sun-dried tomatoes, sauces
- broth / bouillon (check ingredients)
How to check what’s available right now
Because Costco stock changes, use this quick routine:
- Check Costco.ca for search ideas (even if your warehouse stock differs).
- In-store, scan labels and look for “vegan” wording when available.
- If you find something great, take a quick photo of the label so you can remember it.
Want more simple vegan travel + food tips (without the overwhelm)?
Subscribe to our newsletter for easy plant-based guides, travel-friendly food ideas, and new blog posts from World Vegan Travel.
Let’s discuss
What are the best vegan products at Costco in your area right now?
Did you find a new favorite snack, dip, or freezer staple? Drop it in the comments — and tell us which country/city your Costco is in so other readers can compare.
