Costco has recently announced a noteworthy alteration to its beloved $1.50 Hot Dog Combo, a meal deal that has earned a fervent following over the decades. The long-standing combination, which includes a quarter-pound all-beef hot dog and soda, will now feature bottled water as an alternative beverage option. This change marks the first modification to the combo in over 40 years, much to the delight of devoted customers.
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Previously, patrons were only able to accompany their hot dog with a 20-ounce soda. While customers could use cups from the soda fountain to fill up on water, this is the first time bottled water will be available for purchase with the combo. The new option features Kirkland Signature bottled water, which comes in a 16.9-ounce size.
The update has sparked excitement among Costco members. An Instagram user recently posted a photo showcasing the new offering, expressing their enthusiasm: “I love that Costco is now also offering the hot dog combo with water!” The change has also made waves on social media platforms such as Reddit, where discussions about the drink option began circulating several months prior. Some customers commented on the practicality of having a bottled water option, with one user suggesting a strategy for enjoying two hot dogs by pairing one with soda and the other with water.
Costco has been steadfast in maintaining the price of its iconic Hot Dog Combo. In 2022, the company reaffirmed its commitment to keeping the price unchanged. Richard Galanti, the then Chief Financial Officer, explained that the brand was not looking to recover any potential losses from offering the inexpensive meal. He reiterated that the overall success of other business areas allowed Costco to continue providing such an affordably priced meal.
Les Ross, now former Chief Executive Officer of Costco, also weighed in on the pricing matter in an interview, delivering a clear message: there would be no increase to the combo’s price. He recounted an earlier conversation with Costco co-founder Jim Sinegal, who strongly opposed any price increase for the hot dog. To maintain the low price point, the company even established multiple manufacturing plants to produce its own Kirkland Signature hot dogs.
The Hot Dog Combo’s allure extends far beyond its price point. The combo has garnered a cult following, with fans often sharing their enthusiasm on social media. For example, a Cleveland-based content creator named Joey Kinsley, also known as Sir Yacht, conducted an experiment where he subsisted solely on the Costco hot dog meal for an entire week. During this time, he consumed a staggering 29 hot dogs, spending only $43.50 for the week—significantly lower than the average weekly grocery expenditure for millennials.
While Kinsley enjoyed the experience, he did issue a lighthearted disclaimer, emphasising that he does not advocate for this type of diet long-term. He was careful to incorporate physical activity into his routine, walking between 10 to 15 miles each day, and ensured he remained hydrated by drinking a gallon of water daily.
In addition to the changes to the hot dog combo, Costco has recently introduced a new dessert item to its food court menu. The Caramel Churro Sundae features the brand’s soft serve ice cream—available in vanilla, chocolate, or a swirl combination—topped with caramel sauce and crunchy churro bites. This sweet treat is currently being offered for a limited time at a price of £2.99.
Costco’s decision to introduce bottled water to its food court menu reflects a growing trend among consumers seeking healthier drink options. With the change not affecting the price of the highly popular hot dog combo, it appears that Costco is dedicated to preserving both customer satisfaction and affordability in its offerings.
As the retailer continues to innovate while remaining true to its core values, Costco’s devoted customer base is likely to remain enthusiastic about these updates. The hot dog combo is not just a meal; it is a staple of the shopping experience, embodying both convenience and value—a combination that is hard to beat.