The key to saving money? Passing on pricey brand-name buys from specialty stores. Instead of splurging on a pretty package, pay less for generics at everyone’s favorite warehouse retailer.

If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve got you covered with the best Costco hacks — and they start with Kirkland Signature deals. From freezer bags to AA batteries, our favorite KS bargains this August include everything you need for the last few weeks of the summer. And bonus, these buys are all under $25.

Editor’s Note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

Price: $11.99

If the pool water, sand, sun, and surf have taken a toll, you need this luxe moisturizing body wash to pamper your parched skin. Made with mangosteen, olive leaf, pomegranate, chamomile, and plant extracts, the creamy citrus-scented cleanser hydrates, softens, and nourishes.

Price: $11.99

Body wash isn’t the only spa-like KS selection you can snag at Costco. The 33.8-ounce bottle of generic conditioner is another deal that beats brand-name buys.

Compare the paraben, phosphate, and dye-free formula to pricey salon selections.
Instead of paying $29.49 (at CVS) for a bottle of Nexxus Humectress Ultimate
Moisture Conditioner, nab the Kirkland alternative for under $12.

Price: $18.99

Dining out on vacation, pool snack bar meals, and more than a few servings of
barbecued burgers can cause a digestive backup. If you’re looking for an easy
way to keep things flowing, Kirkland’s Optiber prebiotic supplement is an
affordable option. Get 190 servings of the grit-free formula for under $19.

What do shoppers think? Costco customer Michele B. raves that it “Works like a
charm.”

Price: $17.99

Nab these warm-weather pants before it’s too late. This summer style has a
comfortable elastic-back waistband, is made from a four-way stretch
nylon/elastane blend, and pairs perfectly with tanks, tees, and button-downs.

Price: $19.99

Cold and flu season is right around the corner, but you can boost your immunity right now with this vitamin C, Rose Hips, and Citrus Bioflavonoid blend.

The 500-tablet (1,000 mg each) bottle is a steal for $19.99. CVS sells Nature
Made Vitamin C for the same price, but you’ll only get 100 tablets.

Price: $16.39 (on sale from $19.99)

Sensitive skin? No problem. You can clean your clothes with this “free and
clear” HE liquid laundry detergent. And if you snag the 146-load 194-ounce
bottle by Aug. 24, you can get $3.60 off the regular price.

Price: $13.59

Prep for an end-of-summer party and pick up this Solo dupe. The 240-count of 18-ounce plastic cups is a bargain for under $14.

Target sells a 72-piece pack of the brand name for $8.99. At that price, you’d pay more than $29 to get Costco’s quantity.

Price: $15.99

Pack leftovers from your summer soirees in these galloon-plus bags. Kirkland’s
$15.99 multi-pack includes six boxes of 32 bags (192 total). That equals eight
cents per bag.

Target sells Ziploc’s 66-count for $11.59 — or 18 cents each.

Price: $21.99

Costco doesn’t always carry this version of the store’s generic toilet tissue.
So, if you see the 36-roll bulk buy at your club, snap it up ASAP. The two-ply
sheets are, as the name implies, ultra soft.

Even though $21.99 might seem like a splurge for TP, it’s a steal compared to
the cost of a name-brand buy. Charmin’s 30-count pack costs over $10 more at
Target ($32.99).

Price: $23.79

While you’re not ready to rake fall leaves yet, you may still have some
end-of-season work to do in the yard. And that means you need these heavy-duty
50-gallon bags.

Not a gardener? You can also use this 70-count bulk buy to clean up after
barbecues and other outdoor events.

Price: $20.99

Score this 40-pound bag of oak, hickory, maple, and cherry premium 100% natural
hardwood pellets while summertime items are still on store shelves.

If you have any doubts about using generic pellets, take it from Costco shopper
Corby: “Excellent product. Helps the BBQ taste great.”

Price: $24.99

These generic crew necks combine comfort, quality, and cost. Features include a
tagless design, 100% combed heavyweight cotton, and reinforced seams.

Customers praise the six-pack. Costco shopper Jon A. gave this Kirkland buy a
five-star review: “Great quality, great fit, great price!”

Price: $15.99

Batteries are an everyday essential that you always need, and now is the perfect
time to stock up and save. Costco’s 48-count is an almost unbeatable deal for
under $16.

For reference, the same size pack of Energizer AAs costs $29.99 at Target.

Costco’s private label line of Kirkland Signature generics makes it easy to save money on essentials and so much more. Whether you’re planning an end-of-summer barbecue or prepping for a quick August getaway, these under-$25 buys will keep your shopping budget in check.

Of course, the bargains don’t stop at our list of August faves. Kirkland’s line of generics also includes delicious deals on freshly baked pies, the retailer’s iconic rotisserie chicken, and dupes of high-priced brand-name beverages.