Costco's Black Friday sale starts today! Here's how to make $45 to shop there over the holidays

Costco started its Black Friday sale todayand week one deals are now available online and in stores.

However, to take advantage of these big holiday discounts, you must be a Costco member. Luckily, Costco has a huge membership deal that will give you extra spending money for the holidays.

Costco is giving away free $45 gift cards with a new Gold or Executive annual membership as part of a new deal arriving just in time for the holiday shopping season. You can redeem the gift cards online or in stores on your next shopping trip to stock up on gifts, holiday treats or a little something for yourself.

However you decide to spend your free $45 at Costco, you'll get perks all year long with your new membership. You'll have access to all of Costco's huge holiday discounts as well as exclusive offers all year long.

With a Gold membership you can also shop at any Costco warehouse and online. You'll receive an additional membership card and Costco's 100% Guarantee Promise, so you'll never be disappointed with your purchase.

Get a Gold membership for $65 per year plus a $45 gift card.

Costco also has an Executive Membership that will get you this $45 gift card offer as a new member. Executive members enjoy even more benefits, including 2% cash back on qualifying purchases and savings on Costco services such as travel, pharmacy, optical, tire fitting and more.

Get an Executive Membership for $130 per year plus a $45 gift card.

With a Gold or Executive membership, you can shop during Costco's holiday sales, including Black Friday. These exclusive offers are valid until December 1st, with new discounts dropping every week until then Black Friday on November 29th. Even more price cuts will be published online for Cyber ​​Monday (Dec 2).

Both membership offers are available online only to new members or those who have not had an active membership for at least 18 months. Memberships must be redeemed by January 31st. The $45 Costco Gift Card will be emailed to you within two weeks of redeeming your membership. After the one-year promotional period, memberships automatically renew at the regular annual price unless canceled beforehand.