When you think "Costco," you probably imagine aisle upon aisle of bulk discount groceries and supplies, and maybe the smell of the in-store food court. So the idea of maximizing your Costco membership by getting your annual flu shot is probably far from your mind. (And, given the sheer size of these warehouses, you may not have even noticed if your local Costco has a pharmacy.)

But with flu season on the horizon, and healthcare costs perpetually high, you should note that the retailer does offer flu shots via its pharmacies. Here's what else you need to know to decide if Costco flu shots are right for you and your family.

Costco pharmacies offer flu shots

For most people, getting an annual flu shot is a great way to keep yourself healthy -- though there are certain groups, such as pregnant individuals and those with certain chronic conditions, that have to avoid certain types of the shot, while others should skip it entirely (though that's rare).

But if you're eligible for the flu shot, you should know that Costco pharmacies have provided over 1 million vaccines to Costco members, including three different seasonal flu shot options. Plus, Costco pharmacies accept all major forms of insurance.

So your insurance status, as well as the specific formulation of your flu shot, will dictate how much you pay for a flu shot there. Those with insurance may just pay their copay -- though it's likely to be free, as most insurers cover the entire cost for flu shots.

Otherwise, here's a breakdown of the costs without insurance:

You should be aware, however, that there may be state-based programs that can provide some vaccinations at little or no cost, though the types of shots offered may vary from year to year. Still, it's best to look into those options before putting the cost of a vaccine on your favorite Costco credit card.

You should also keep in mind that these prices apply to those with a Costco Member Prescription Discount card. So you'd have to show your Costco membership card when checking out to access those prices.

And there's another important caveat to note here: The flu shots Costco offers are specifically meant for those ages 3 and up, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that most people 6 months of age or older should get the annual flu shot. Those with kids under 3 will have to look elsewhere for their flu shot.

How to get a flu shot at Costco

Costco does accept walk-ins, but if you schedule an appointment, you may be able to save time. If you're already shopping in the store and you have the Costco app, you can simply search for "pharmacy" and book your appointment while you find everything on your shopping list.

After that, you'll have to sign an Immunization Consent Form (completing this ahead of time can mean a faster appointment). And if you have insurance, you'll have to bring your insurance card to get the shot covered. Then you'll need to make sure one of your arms is accessible for the shot, so wearing a short-sleeved shirt is a good idea.

Other vaccines offered at Costco pharmacies

There are many vaccinations and booster shots beyond flu shots that you get via a Costco pharmacy, including:

• COVID-19 (Pfizer, Moderna, or Novavax)
• RSV
• Hepatitis A and B
• HPV
• Meningitis
• Shingles
• Tdap

Again, Costco members without insurance can be eligible for lower-cost vaccinations. But given that the Gold Star membership (the lowest tier offered) costs $65 a year, you'll have to do the math to see if your shopping habits and vaccination needs warrant that cost.

Costco's offerings go well beyond groceries and home supplies. If you've never looked into the perks offered by a Costco membership, now is the time. Especially if you're looking to stay healthy this flu season.