Costco members are apparently buying snorkels, flip-flops, and alcohol in Hawaii and returning them used or half-empty at the end of their vacation (COST)

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September 6, 2018 7:45 PM

Costco is known for having a very generous return policy. Members can return almost any product at any time if they are not satisfied with it. In Hawaii, apparently, some vacationers are pushing that policy to the very limit.

Making frequent returns can

Costco's generous return policy allows members to bring back almost any item at any time without a receipt, though there are some exceptions.

It's no secret that some members like to push the policy to its limits by returning such things as a Christmas tree in January, an already-eaten steak, or an empty bottle of wine.

"It's almost comical," said.

He said he's seen tourists return everything from used flip-flops and sandals to half-drunk bottles of vodka. Members might buy a kayak for $400 at Costco and return it one week later to save the weekly rental fee, he said.

"There should be a law against things like this," he added.

hey stand there with smiles and do it as part of their job," he said.

Making too many returns could backfire

There are seven Costco stores across the Hawaiian islands. When Business Insider called two Costco stores in Hawaii, one on Maui and one on Oahu, the customer-service assistants would not comment on whether they see a higher level of returns from tourists. However, a customer-service assistant in Maui confirmed that this type of return does happen.

A Costco representative did not immediately return Business Insider's request for comment on the practice.

where Costco will cancel a membership if too many — or too many unsuitable — returns are made.

"In the event a member is not satisfied with Costco merchandise, the membership fees may be refunded and the membership canceled. This decision is made on a case-by-case basis and is at the discretion of each location manager. Additionally, memberships may be canceled due to abuse of the Member Privileges and Conditions," a spokesperson for Costco told Business Insider in August.

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