Alright, listen up, fellow parents, guardians, and anyone else caught in the glorious, chaotic whirlwind that is back-to-school season! We all know the drill: there’s that mix of excitement for new beginnings, the frenzied rush to gather supplies, maybe a tiny bit of disappointment as summer days fade, and let’s be honest, for many, a secret joy that the kids will finally be out of the house. No judgment here, we’ve all been there, and we’re just trying to survive!
But regardless of where you land on that back-to-school emotional rollercoaster, one truth is universal: those early mornings and long school days are going to bring on some serious hunger pangs. Gone are the lazy days of just rummaging through the fridge whenever a craving hits. For the most part, you’re going to have to be prepared when hunger strikes, which means snacks are a back-to-school necessity that absolutely cannot be skimped on. Seriously, don’t even try!
That’s where your trusty Costco membership becomes a total superpower. I’ve scoured the aisles for the tastiest, most affordable, and downright essential snacks to keep kiddos’ energy up through the school day, satisfy that unavoidable after-school nosh, and even fuel busy parents. Keeping our budgets happy, bellies full, and stress levels low is the name of the game. So, get ready to fill those pantries, because these are the greatest hits that will please the whole family and make this school year a snacking success!
1. **Nabisco Variety Box: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser**As a mom, let me tell you, a good variety box is a total game-changer. It’s like a mini treasure chest of deliciousness, and while there’s usually one item that everyone fiercely loves, the rest generally get split pretty evenly among my household. Even my husband and I can sneak in a few bites – because, let’s be real, who can resist a good snack?
This 40-piece Nabisco variety box offers so many options, it’s almost unfair to other snack boxes. We’re talking packs of Cheese Ritz Bits, Mini Chips Ahoy, Mini Nilla Wafers, Nutter Butter Bites, and Oreo Mini. That’s a fantastic mix of both sweet and savory treats, ensuring there’s something for every craving.
These single-serving options are absolutely perfect for packing in school lunches or just throwing into backpacks for an on-the-go snack attack. They’re big enough to satisfy those grumbly tummies but varied enough to please any taste bud. It’s like a daily surprise for their lunchboxes, keeping things fresh and exciting.
And here’s the bonus: this is a deal that is genuinely hard to pass up. At my local Kroger store, a 20-pack option from Nabisco only offers four of these flavors and rings in at $10.99. Getting twice as much, plus one more flavor to choose from, for just $2 more at Costco is totally worth it in my house. It’s a no-brainer for stocking up smart!
2. **Dot’s Pretzels: The Viral Sensation We All Crave**If you haven’t experienced the magic of Dot’s Pretzels yet, where have you been?! These became a viral sensation for a reason, and that reason is pure, unadulterated deliciousness. The salty, savory, buttery crunch of Dot’s twisted pretzels is just incredibly hard to resist, and once you start, it’s tough to stop.
However, we have to admit, they can be a bit pricey if you’re just buying a regular bag of pretzels. A standard 16-ounce bag at Kroger costs $7.99 and, let’s be honest, those don’t last very long once the family gets their hands on them. We need a better solution for school year snacking!
That’s why, when I spotted this glorious box of 32 single-serving bags at Costco, I knew I had struck gold. We’re talking 32 perfectly portioned snacks, with three varieties to boot: original, parmesan garlic, and honey mustard. All for just $13.99! That’s a seriously huge savings compared to buying two of the regular-sized bags and attempting to portion them out yourself at home, which, let’s face it, is a task we sometimes try to do to cut costs.
To put it into even more perspective, buying 10 of the original flavor single-serving sizes at my Kroger would set you back $8.49. So, getting 32 for $13.99 is an affordable crowd-pleaser that minimizes trips to the store. This big quantity is something I always appreciate, especially with the back-to-school frenzy kicking in. Your wallet (and your taste buds) will thank you!
3. **Rice Krispies Treats: A Timeless Sweet Fuel-Up**Rice Krispies Treats have been a beloved staple since 1939, and frankly, these snacks probably aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. They’ve always been that perfectly satisfying sweet treat for all ages, bringing a little bit of nostalgic joy with every bite. But here’s a fun fact: they’ve recently earned a top spot among athletes!
Two-time Olympian Molly Huddle actually relies on them to carb load before a big race, and another Olympic athlete, Hobbs Kessler, takes them along for after his runs. Plus, these delightful treats made appearances alongside several participants in the recent Tour de France! So, if you’re looking for something reliable to fuel your kiddo through long school days or after-school activities, I’d say these are a fantastic way to go.
Now, sure, you *could* make them yourself at home. But let’s be real, that’s a pretty time-consuming and often messy endeavor just for a single batch. Who has time for that when you’re juggling school schedules, homework, and all the other demands of life? The individually wrapped snacks are the way to go for convenience.
At my nearest Kroger store, you can snag a 40-pack for $11.99. But at Costco, you guys, you can get a whopping 60-count box for only $12.99! That’s an unbeatable deal that the whole family can enjoy, even when school isn’t in session. It’s a sweet, easy win for everyone!
4. **Greenfield Natural Meat Company Lunch Kits: When a Snack Needs to Be a Meal**Sometimes, a regular quick snack just won’t cut it. Maybe lunch was served super early, or your kid has intense after-school activities that demand a more substantial boost. That’s when you need a snack that looks and feels a little more like a small meal. And the Greenfield Natural Meat Company lunch kits are a perfect way to deliver exactly that, in a manner you can feel really good about.
Greenfield prides itself on pretty high standards for its meats, which is a huge plus for parents. Their products are antibiotic- and hormone-free, grain-fed, free-range, and contain no artificial ingredients. So, you’re giving your kids quality fuel that you can trust, which is a big win in my book when it comes to packed lunches and snacks.
Costco offers a fantastic variety box of six lunch kits. This includes three oven-roasted chicken, crackers, cheddar cheese, and chocolate chip wafer meals, and three uncured honey ham, crackers, white cheddar cheese, and chocolate wafer meals. That’s a well-rounded, appealing mini-meal, all for just $10.79.
And that price is hard to beat, especially when you compare it to other options. If you were to purchase a comparable product in quantity, like a Lunchable, you’d be looking at $2.29 each at Kroger. Six of those would cost you $13.74. Not only are you paying more, but you’re simply not getting the same quality of product. It definitely seems like paying less and getting more quality is the smarter choice here for happy, fueled kids!
5. **Jack Links Beef and Mild Cheddar Combo Packs: Protein Powerhouse**Okay, I have to confess, I didn’t discover the joy of beef jerky until the ’80s, but ever since, I’ve been a huge fan. And guess what? So have my kids! While I might not always consider it the absolute healthiest snack I can throw into a backpack, it definitely satisfies both taste and hunger, and it’s not entirely without its benefits.
Especially with the mild cheddar cheese making an appearance in these combo packs, you get a tasty choice that offers a good boost of protein and calcium. We’re talking about a snack pack combo that delivers a solid 8 grams of protein, made from 100% beef and real Wisconsin cheese. That’s some serious staying power for growing kids!
At Costco, you can pick up these Jack Links beef stick and mild cheddar cheese combo packs 10 at a time for $9.99, which is a pretty stellar price. Just one of these combo packs would cost you $1.69 at my local Kroger. When you do the math, the Costco deal is clearly the way to go for consistent stocking.
So, if you’re looking for something more substantial than just string cheese, and beef jerky is already a household favorite (or you’re looking to introduce a new one!), this is a great, affordable option to keep on hand. It’s perfect for those moments when they need a quick, savory, and satisfying bite.
6. **Mott’s Fruit Snacks: A Sweet & Chewy Staple**Fruit snacks are truly a year-round staple at my house, and I’m not ashamed to admit it. If I’m craving something sweet, a pack of these little chewy treats always seems to hit the spot and set my sweet tooth straight. They’re just so undeniably satisfying, aren’t they?
Whether you’ve got kids still in car seats or teens that seem impossible to please, these are such easy snacks to send to school, keep stashed in the car, or have handy in your purse for whenever the “hangries” decide to make an unwelcome appearance. And honestly, I’ve never, ever seen anyone turn down a pack of fruit snacks – they’re universally loved!
What’s even better is that Mott’s fruit snacks are made with real fruit and vegetable juice, natural flavors and colors, and they’re fat-free. Plus, they’re a great source of vitamin C, which is always a nice bonus to have when you’re handing out a little sustenance. It’s a treat you can feel a tiny bit better about!
Now, for the deal: a 66-count box of these chewy little delights at Kroger goes for $14.99. But at Costco, you can snag a massive 90-count box for only $11.99. Once again, that incredible quantity is sure to keep your trips to the store down, and the quality just makes you feel good about what you’re providing. Stock up, folks!
7. **Cheez-It and Pringles Classic Combo Pack: Two Icons, One Box**Alright, prepare yourselves, because we’re talking about two snack titans here: Cheez-Its and Pringles. Both are extremely popular snacks all over the world, with Cheez-Its alone raking in over $1.2 billion in U.S. retail sales. Yes, billion with a B! So, when the Kellogg Company decides to put a variety of five incredible flavors in one box, you know there’s something in there that is absolutely sure to please everyone in your house. And for only $11.99 for 40 snacks at Costco, your wallet will be sending you thank you notes.
As far as the Cheez-It flavors go, this box includes the irresistible cheddar jack, the perfectly crunchy Extra Toasty, and the satisfyingly crisp Snap’d double cheesy crackers. That’s a cheesy trifecta right there! And with the Pringles flavors, you’re going to get the two most popular options on the planet: classic original and the tangy sour cream and onion. It’s a flavor explosion in every convenient pack.
Let’s break down the savings, because that’s what we’re all about, right? At my Kroger, a box of 20 packs of Cheez-Its is going to cost you around $9.99, and that’s just for one of their many Cheez-It flavor options. And Pringles snack stacks? Those are $14.99 for 27. When you add it all up and compare it to Costco’s 40-snack, multi-flavor box for just $11.99, it’s incredibly easy to see the massive savings. Honestly, getting a deal this good rarely tastes this delicious. This combo pack is a must-have for any snack cabinet!”
Alright, snack heroes, if you thought the first seven picks were pantry game-changers, just wait! We’re diving even deeper into the glorious aisles of Costco to unearth more must-have treats that will carry you and your kiddos through the school year, from those early morning dashes to the post-activity hunger surges. Get ready to level up your snack game, because these next seven are all about smart choices, healthy boosts, and ultimate convenience that’ll have your wallet doing a happy dance!
8. **Pepperoni Hot Pockets: The Ultimate Hunger Buster for Tweens and Teens**If you’ve got tweens or teens lurking in your household, you already know the universal truth: their stomachs are basically black holes, capable of devouring everything in sight at an alarming rate. It often feels like no meal is ever big enough, and the food in your house vanishes quicker than you can say ‘pop culture trend.’ But fear not, because since 1983, Hot Pockets have been swooping in to save the day as both an after-school snack and a speedy meal option.
While Hot Pockets once boasted over 50 different flavors, many would agree that pepperoni has always reigned supreme as the undisputed best. And guess what? Costco totally gets it. You can snag a massive box of 20 of these iconic pepperoni Hot Pockets for just $15.89. Talk about a deal that keeps on giving, and giving, and giving!
When you compare this to a standard grocery store, the savings really jump out. At my local Kroger, the best deal I could find was a 12-pack for $14.99. So, for barely a dollar more at Costco, you’re getting an extra *eight* Hot Pockets! That’s a significant cost-benefit, especially when you’re trying to keep those ravenous young appetites satisfied without constantly running to the store.
Beyond the amazing price, there’s the priceless benefit of having a tasty, hot snack option ready in just a few minutes. Whether it’s a quick lunch on a busy weekend, an after-school refuel, or a late-night study snack, these are a true lifesaver for busy families. Seriously, embrace the Hot Pocket; your sanity and your wallet will thank you!
9. **Pepperidge Farms Goldfish Crackers: The Snack That Smiles Back**Goldfish crackers are more than just a snack; they’re a cultural phenomenon that has been charming taste buds for over 60 years. And it looks like they’re not going anywhere, anytime soon, as they’ll likely be around for at least 60 more! In fact, in 2024, these cheerful fish-shaped snacks were the fastest-growing option in their sector, showing an incredible 33% growth from the previous three years.
At Tasting Table, we wholeheartedly agree that Goldfish crackers are a lunchbox staple, and it’s clear that Campbell’s, the company behind them, is committed to keeping it that way. They’re constantly innovating with new flavors and creations to ensure that Gen X keeps coming back while also reeling in Millennials and Gen Z with their irresistible appeal. Truly, these smiling snacks transcend generations!
For generations, kids (and let’s be honest, adults too!) have been happily raised on ‘the snack that smiles back,’ so there’s absolutely no question that these are a must-have school snack to keep stocked in your pantry. Costco makes this incredibly easy and affordable by selling huge 45-count boxes of single-serving bags for only $12.99. At that price, my advice is to grab a couple because they disappear quickly!
To highlight the pure jackpot of this deal, consider skipping the regular grocery store. At my Kroger, a box of 20 individual snack packs of Goldfish will set you back $11.99. So, for just a dollar more at Costco, you’re getting *more than double* the quantity. The savings at Costco are simply too good to pass up for this beloved, universally adored snack. Stock up and keep those smiles coming!
10. **Little Bites Muffins: Bite-Sized Bliss for Any Time of Day**If you haven’t yet discovered the magic of Little Bites mini muffins, you’re in for a treat! These delightful, bite-sized goodies are a top product of their kind across the United States, and it’s not hard to see why. No matter which flavor you choose, you’re guaranteed something moist, chewy, and utterly delicious – all perfectly portioned and small enough to simply pop into your mouth. They’re just so satisfying!
There truly isn’t a bad time of day to enjoy a pack of Little Bites, making them incredibly versatile. Much like Goldfish crackers, they’ve firmly established themselves as a school snack must-have, whether it’s for breakfast on the go, a mid-morning pick-me-up, or an after-school treat. Kids adore them, and parents appreciate their convenience.
While you can easily find a box of 10 pouches at my Kroger for around $6.99, which might not sound like too much initially, the Costco deal puts things into a fantastic perspective. At Costco, you can get a whopping 20 pouches of the same delicious blueberry or party-style muffins for only $10.49! That’s double the quantity for only about $3.50 more – an absolute steal!
And if you’re looking to mix things up or prefer a different flavor, Costco also offers its own Kirkland Signature mini muffin bites in a chocolate chip variety. You can get 20 pouches of those for an even more amazing price of only $8.99. So whether you stick with the classic Little Bites or explore the Kirkland Signature option, you’re looking at serious savings for a snack that brings smiles all around.
11. **Dole Diced Mango Cups: The Unexpected Healthy Win**As a parent, I’ll be honest: if I had my way, my kids would always choose a healthy option like fruit for their snacks. But let’s be realistic, that’s not always going to happen! Fresh fruits can sometimes be a bit of a challenge for school-packed lunches or on-the-go snacking. Bananas can turn into a messy mush in a backpack, oranges are notoriously sticky and hard for little hands to peel, and I’ve seen far too many apples tragically repurposed as balls in some spontaneous playground game.
However, there’s a secret weapon in my healthy snack arsenal: Dole fruit cups. When I have these convenient little cups around, that healthy choice happens far more often than I ever expected! The best part? These Dole diced mango cups come with no sugar added and are packed in 100% fruit juice, making them a fantastic, wholesome option you can feel great about.
Costco makes it incredibly easy to stock up on this healthy favorite. You can find Dole diced mango in generous 20-count packs for only $9.99. Let’s do a quick comparison to really appreciate this deal: A small 4-count pack at my Kroger goes for $2.99. While that might seem reasonable on its own, imagine buying enough packs to get 20 cups – you’d be paying almost $15 for the same amount! The Costco value is clear.
And if mango feels a little too ‘out of the norm’ for your family’s snack preferences, don’t worry, Costco has you covered with another classic: Dole mandarin oranges. Also featuring no added sugar and packed in 100% fruit juice, you can grab a box of 16 packs of mandarin oranges for only $8.49. These fruit cups are a sweet, convenient, and surprisingly popular way to sneak in some healthy goodness.
12. **Sabritas Peanuts: A Power-Packed, Flavorful Boost**When it comes to snacking, peanuts are truly in a league of their own, offering a wide array of fantastic health benefits. They’re little powerhouses, delivering a high number of essential vitamins, including numerous B vitamins, Vitamin E, and magnesium, and they’re also a rich source of antioxidants. Plus, peanuts are low in carbs and absolutely loaded with protein, which is an excellent way to keep energy levels up and those hunger pangs at bay.
So, as far as smart snack choices go, peanuts are definitely a winner. However, as beneficial as they are, they can sometimes lean towards the pricier side, especially when you’re looking to buy them in convenient snack pack formats. This is where Costco steps in to offer a truly unbeatable deal that makes healthy snacking accessible.
At my local Kroger, a 24-count box of Planters snack pack peanuts, featuring a variety of three flavors, would set you back $15.99. But Costco has an option that not only costs significantly less but also offers even *more* variety – Sabritas peanuts! Their variety pack includes 30 bags and boasts four exciting flavors to choose from: hot, salt and lime, spicy, and Japanese. All of that deliciousness is available for just $5.99.
That’s right, a mere $5.99 for 30 bags of varied, flavorful, and incredibly beneficial peanuts! It’s a small price to pay for something so nutritious, satisfying, and tasty. Whether you like a little kick, a zesty twist, or just classic savory goodness, the Sabritas variety pack at Costco is a pantry essential that will fuel your family throughout the busy school year.
13. **Kirkland Signature Chocolate Chip Granola Bars: The Morning Rush Savior**Mornings, especially when school first goes back into session, have a way of becoming incredibly hectic, don’t they? Time seems to evaporate faster than you can pour a bowl of cereal, and important things like breakfast can easily be missed in the whirlwind of getting everyone out the door. That’s precisely why I always make sure to have a stash of reliable granola bars on hand – they’re a true lifesaver for those chaotic mornings.
Doling out whole grains for breakfast in the car doesn’t get much easier or more convenient than a good granola bar. And thankfully, Costco makes that a super easy *and* incredibly affordable choice with its fantastic Kirkland Signature brand. Their chocolate chip chewy granola bar is a fan favorite, hard to resist both in taste and price.
You can grab a huge box of 64 of these delicious chocolate chip granola bars for only $11.59. That’s an astonishing quantity for such a low price! In stark contrast, Quaker’s chewy chocolate chip granola bars at my local Kroger retail for $8.79 for a mere 30 bars. The value at Costco is simply unparalleled, ensuring you have plenty to go around.
And let’s be honest, whether it’s before, during, or after school, my kids (and probably yours!) are always happy to get anything that involves chocolate. Of course, if you want to skip the chocolate aspect but still keep the whole grains coming, Costco also offers Nature Valley granola bars as an affordable option. Their 49-pack of two bars of oats ‘n honey crunchy granola bars is only $14.99, and I’ve even seen them marked down to $11.99 on sale – another fantastic deal to watch out for!
14. **Kirkland Signature Organic Fruit and Vegetable Pouches: Modern Convenience for All Ages**I’ll confess, when I first saw pureed pouches of food hit the market, I had a moment of ‘what is this?’ Back in my day, sucking your food through a straw felt like something reserved for extreme circumstances. But, oh, how times have changed! Since 2010, the sale of pureed pouch foods has skyrocketed a mind-boggling 900%. And here’s the kicker: it’s not just babies slurping up these fruit and vegetable slurries anymore; adults have enthusiastically jumped on the bandwagon too!
If your household is among the many where these convenient pouches have become popular, you’ll be absolutely thrilled to discover that Kirkland Signature has created its very own line of organic fruit and vegetable pouches. This is a game-changer for stocking up! You can get a huge 24-pack of delicious apple, strawberry, spinach, and apple, mango, yellow carrot, peach organic pouches for only $12.49, which is nothing short of a steal!
To truly grasp the incredible value, consider this: I’ve found that a *single*, similar organic product at my Kroger can cost up to $3.99 or even more. That means you’re getting 24 pouches at Costco for less than the price of four individual ones elsewhere! So, these are definitely something to be on the lookout for during your next Costco run.
Not only are these pouches perfect for keeping those toddlers happy and occupied while you’re waiting at pick-up, but they’re also fantastic for the daycare crowd and young ones just starting solid foods. And honestly, don’t be surprised if you catch the older ones in the household – yes, even the teens and adults – grabbing a quick, wholesome snack to slurp on. They’re just *that* convenient and tasty!
And there you have it, folks! From the ultimate crowd-pleasers and viral sensations to protein powerhouses and healthy hidden gems, these 14 Costco snacks are your secret weapons for conquering the back-to-school season. We’ve covered everything from quick breakfasts and lunchbox staples to after-school fuel and substantial mini-meals, all while keeping your budget in check. Costco truly is the MVP of snack stocking, offering unbeatable deals and quality products that satisfy everyone in the family. So go forth, fill those carts, and get ready for a deliciously successful school year. Your pantry (and your stomach!) will thank you!
