Picnic season is here, and Costco’s massive aisles hold budget-friendly treasures perfect for outdoor feasting! Whether you’re planning a romantic date or family gathering, these wallet-friendly Costco finds will make your picnic memorable without emptying your bank account.
Grab your basket and let’s explore delicious, no-fuss options that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
1. Rotisserie Chicken Feast
Costco’s rotisserie chicken is practically legendary! Shred this perfectly seasoned bird at home and pack it in containers for instant sandwiches.
The meat stays juicy for hours and feeds 4-6 people easily. No cooking required – just grab, pack, and enjoy!
2. Mediterranean Dip Platter
Holy hummus heaven! Grab Costco’s giant tubs of hummus and tzatziki. These creamy dips transform basic veggies into addictive snacks.
Pair with their pre-cut veggie trays or pita chips. The containers seal tightly, preventing messy spills during transport to your picnic spot.
3. Street Taco Kit Magic
Taco Tuesday meets picnic Sunday! Costco’s street taco kit serves 12 and includes seasoned chicken, tortillas, lime slices, salsa, and cilantro lime crema.
Pack components separately in your cooler. Assembly takes seconds, creating fresh, zesty tacos that’ll make everyone forget they’re eating outdoors!
4. Cheese Flight Adventure
Cheese lovers, rejoice! Costco’s rotating cheese flights feature 4-5 premium varieties perfectly portioned for sampling. Cut chunks at home for easier handling.
Add their dried fruit and nut mix for perfect pairing.
5. Croissant Sandwich Bar
Buttery croissant heaven awaits! Snag Costco’s 12-pack of butter croissants for around $7. Slice these flaky beauties at home, then bring separate containers of deli meats, cheeses, and spreads.
Let everyone build custom sandwiches at the picnic.
6. Muffin Madness
Breakfast for picnic? Absolutely! Costco’s massive muffins come in blueberry, chocolate, and other flavors that could feed a small army.
Cut these giants into quarters before packing. They’re dense enough to survive transport without turning to crumbs and sweet enough to double as dessert!
7. Pinwheel Sandwich Platters
Party-ready pinwheels without the work! For around $10-15, Costco’s deli section offers trays of tortilla rollups stuffed with turkey, ham, and veggies.
These bite-sized beauties require zero prep – just open and serve. The tight roll keeps fillings from falling out.
8. Japanese-Style Fried Rice
Carb lovers unite! Costco’s refrigerated Japanese-style fried rice ($10-12) packs incredible flavor with chunks of egg and vegetables throughout.
Microwave before leaving home and transfer to insulated containers. This hearty side stays delicious at room temperature and pairs with nearly everything else in your picnic basket!
9. Kirkland Signature Trail Mix
Handful of heaven! Costco’s massive trail mix bags combine nuts, raisins, chocolate, and dried fruit in perfect proportion. Portion into small containers before your outing.
This protein-packed snack satisfies munchies between main courses. The resealable bag keeps everything fresh.
10. Ready-Made Caesar Salad
Salad without the struggle! Costco’s pre-made Caesar kits include crisp romaine, dressing, croutons, and cheese – all separately packaged.
Assembly takes seconds at your picnic site. The result? Restaurant-quality salad with zero chopping or measuring required.
11. Fresh Fruit Platter Shortcut
Fruit ninja skills not required! Costco’s pre-cut fruit platters offer watermelon, pineapple, melon, and berries without the sticky mess of cutting.
Transfer to smaller containers before leaving home. The natural sweetness provides perfect balance to savory picnic foods.
12. Italian Pasta Salad Tubs
Pasta perfection in minutes! Costco’s deli section offers massive tubs of Italian pasta salad loaded with veggies, cheese, and zesty dressing.
This crowd-pleaser stays delicious for hours in your cooler. Each tub serves 8-10 people generously.
13. Bakery Cookies Bonanza
Cookie monsters, unite! Costco’s bakery churns out trays of massive cookies in chocolate chip, white chocolate macadamia, and other flavors.
These palm-sized treats pack easily and withstand heat better than chocolate bars.
14. Guacamole and Chips Combo
Avocado magic without the mashing! Costco’s refrigerated guacamole packs contain perfectly seasoned dip that stays green thanks to clever packaging.
Pair with their massive bags of tortilla chips. The individual guacamole cups are portion-controlled.
15. Chicken Salad Croissant Stuffers
Costco’s pre-made chicken salad containers ($10-12) transform plain bread into gourmet picnic fare instantly. Pack separately from your croissants or rolls.
The chunky texture and perfect seasoning mean you don’t need extra condiments cluttering your picnic basket.
16. Mini Quiche Assortment
Fancy finger food alert! Costco’s frozen mini quiche assortment heats up before your outing for protein-packed bites. These two-bite wonders taste amazing at room temperature.
The variety pack includes spinach, three-cheese, and mushroom flavors, ensuring everyone finds something to love at your picnic spread!
17. Antipasto Picks Assembly
Mediterranean magic on sticks! Grab Costco’s marinated mozzarella balls ($9), olives ($6), and salamis ($12) to create DIY antipasto skewers. Thread onto toothpicks before your picnic or bring components separately.
These no-cook flavor bombs require zero heating or special storage beyond your basic cooler!
18. Artisan Rolls And Dipping Oils
Bread basket brilliance! Costco’s 12-pack of artisan rolls paired with their bottled dipping oils creates instant restaurant vibes anywhere. Pre-slice rolls for easier serving.
The crusty exterior travels well without getting smashed, while the soft interior soaks up flavored oils perfectly. Simple yet impressive picnic starter!
19. Brownie Bite Bonanza
Chocolate emergency solved! Costco’s two-bite brownies deliver intense fudgy goodness without the mess of cutting full-size desserts. These portable chocolate bombs withstand travel admirably.
Their small size means you can indulge without committing to a massive dessert after your picnic feast!
20. Kirkland Sparkling Water Variety
Bubbles without the budget-busting! Costco’s Kirkland Signature sparkling water cases offer refreshing flavors like lime, berry, and orange.
The slim cans chill quickly in coolers. Skip sugary sodas for these zero-calorie thirst quenchers that pair well with everything from sandwiches to cookies at your picnic paradise!