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Warehouse clubs offer bulk buys at prices that specialty stores just can't beat. But that doesn't mean every membership is worth the annual fee.
I took my regular shopping list to Costco and Sam's Club to find the best grocery deals. While both retailers offered significant savings over my local grocery chain, I could only crown one winner.
So, did I save money at Costco or nab better bargains from Sam's? Keep reading to see which club helped me to cut costs.
Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.
Prepared foods
Admittedly, my kitchen skills aren't exactly Top Chef worthy. That's why I rely heavily on ready-to-heat-and-eat meals. While prepared products can get pricey, I've always found decent deals at both warehouse clubs. So, is Costco or Sam's Club cheaper?
Both clubs have similar price points for prepared items. The iconic rotisserie chicken is $4.99 at Costco, but only $4.98 at Sam's Club. Turn that chicken into a salad, and you'll pay $5.99 per pound at Costco and $5.98 per pound at Sam's Club. Even though one cent may not seem like a major difference, over time those pennies could add up.
Everyday essentials
Pantry products like flour, sugar, and oil are always on my shopping list. Instead of overpaying for brand-name everyday essentials, I prefer private-label generics from Kirkland Signature and Member's Mark. The quality-cost combo makes these grocery items affordable deals.
In my search for low-priced generic staples, I found a 67.6-ounce bottle of Kirkland Signature Extra Virgin Olive Oil at Costco for $20.99. Sam's sells a 68-ounce bottle from Member's Mark for $17.98.
Desserts
Sometimes I splurge on a little indulgence. That said, I still manage to save money on delicious desserts.
The price of desserts varies by type and brand. To simplify my shopping list and make price comparisons easier, I chose a basic (but classic) buy: vanilla ice cream. Costco's four-quart size of Kirkland Signature Super Premium Vanilla Ice Cream costs $12.99 at my local club. Sam's sells a five-quart pail of Member's Mark Vanilla Ice Cream for $8.12.
Bakery buys
Freshly-baked bread, muffins, cookies, cakes, and patisserie-quality pastries are staples at both clubs. The warehouse retailers beat smaller specialty bakeries on quantity and price, but you still have to hunt for the best bargains.
The price breakdown for my favorite fresh finds includes: French baguettes ($4.46 at Sam's Club versus $4.99 at Costco for a pack of two), cookies ($19.93 for an assorted tray of 84 at Sam's versus $22.99 for 60 at Costco), and croissants ($5.96 for a dozen at Sam's versus $5.99 at Costco).
Frozen foods
Freezer section finds are convenient and cost-effective. From berries and smoothie blends to seafood, sides, and savory meals, this area of the store has it all.
Frozen veggies are always on my list. I compared the cost of Kirkland Signature and Member's Mark broccoli florets to find the best bargain. Four pounds from Costco cost $9.99 at my local club, while the same quantity was $6.68 at Sam's.
Canned goods
Canned vegetables, fruit, beans, and sauces are shelf-stable staples that could save you money. That is, if you choose the right retailer.
Costco's 12-count of Kirkland Signature Organic Tomato Sauce (15-ounce cans) is my go-to. Sam's Club doesn't offer an organic option. But as I recently found, the warehouse club's price for the same conventional quantity is lower ( $9.68 compared to $13.49).
Beverages
Bulk buys on bottled water, soda, seltzer, juice, coffee, lemonade, and iced tea make shopping for beverages easy. Larger cases mean fewer trips to the store, saving you money on gas. But that's not the only reason I buy in bulk. These types of beverages are also less expensive from warehouse clubs when you calculate the per-piece cost.
Which store sold my favorite drinks for less? Sam's Club's generic 40-count of purified water (16.9-ounces) is $3.98. I paid 1 cent more at Costco for the Kirkland item.
Meat and poultry
Don't let the skyrocketing cost of meat and poultry stop you from eating a protein-rich diet. I skip these selections at my local grocer and pick up bulk buys from either Costco or Sam's Club.
Costco's Kirkland Brand Fresh Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts sell for $2.99 per pound. The same item from Member's Mark costs $2.88 per pound.
Dairy
Cheese, yogurt, and milk are kitchen staples. Of course, sometimes I treat myself to a gourmet selection.
I found an 18-ounce wheel of President Triple Creme Brie at Costco for $6.99. Sam's Club sells the 19.6-ounce soft-ripened version (also from President) for $7.64. Even though Costco has the better price, when you factor in the size, it's a tie.
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Snacks
Chips, crackers, cookies, popcorn, nuts, and other tasty treats can break your grocery budget. Whether I'm planning a party or just want to indulge, I usually find the best deals at warehouse clubs.
Looking for nuts? When I compared the prices of whole cashews at these two stores, I found a better deal at Sam's. Member's Mark's 26-ounce pack costs $10.98 (42 cents per ounce), while Costco's 40-ounce Kirkland Signature bag sells for $18.99 (47 cents per ounce).
Bottom line
There you have it. The winner of the warehouse club showdown is Sam's Club.
Will Sam's make it easy for you to tackle high grocery costs? Even though I saved money at this club, your list could include items that are cheaper at another store. Pro tip: Check warehouse club websites for seasonal specials and other deals before you shop. The time you spend online comparing prices could add up to significant savings.
More from FinanceBuzz:
- 12 ways to pocket up to $300.
- Are you a homeowner? Get a protection plan on all your appliances.
- 10 little weird hacks Costco shoppers should know.
- Learn how to escape the paycheck-to-paycheck grind.
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