Are you thinking of becoming a Sam’s Club member? Doing so can be a great way to keep more money in your wallet, as buying in bulk often leads to savings.
However, there are some important things you should know about both the benefits and drawbacks of getting a membership.
Take the guesswork out of your decision by getting answers to these questions you might be afraid to ask.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more. Not being able to make repairs could leave you in a bad situation — but a home warranty could protect you against surprise expenses.
Whether you’re a brand-new homeowner or you’ve owned your home for years, a plan from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where homeowner’s insurance falls short.
If a covered system in your home breaks down, you can call their hotline 24/7 for assistance to get it repaired. They have a network of over 15,000 technicians that can assist you, making sure any issue can be taken care of swiftly — without breaking the bank.
Not sure if it’s for you? Rest easy: they were named one of the "Best Home Warranty Companies" by US News 360 Reviews and were awarded Best Company's 2020 Consumer's Choice Award. For a limited time, you can get your first month free when you sign up for a Single Payment home warranty plan.
SPONSOREDCan you really save with a Sam’s Club membership?
/images/2023/11/09/women-comparing-grocery-receipts.jpeg)
Yes, you can save money by paying for a Sam’s Club membership. Buying in bulk can be a great shopping hack that cuts costs. But there are some caveats.
First, consider whether you’re going to use the membership. It might not be worth signing up if you don’t shop at Sam’s Club regularly. A membership costs either $50 or $110 annually.
Buying in bulk also comes with more upfront costs, even if you save money over the long run. For instance, you'll have to shell out more to buy 20 cans of soup at once than if you bought a can or two.
What if I lose my Sam’s Club card?
/images/2023/11/09/client-paying-using-mobile-at-cafe.jpeg)
Don’t fret if you lose your Sam’s Club membership card or forget to bring it with you. Talk to an employee at the membership desk when you walk in, and they can help you out.
You can also download the Sam’s Club app to your smartphone, which includes a digital version of your membership card. That means you don’t have to worry about forgetting the card, as the digital version works just as well as a physical membership card.
Is membership worth it if I live alone?
/images/2023/11/09/interior-of-sams-club-warehouse.jpeg)
You might suspect Sam’s Club is best for families or people who buy items for large groups. But a Sam’s Club membership can be worth it, even if you’re just buying things for yourself.
Singles can use their membership to buy staples in bulk, such as toilet paper or trash bags. This might result in savings over time. And don’t forget benefits such as purchasing lower-priced furniture or getting vacation deals thanks to your Sam’s Club membership.
SPONSORED
Shopping online has its perks. It's super convenient, but it can be time consuming to find the best deals. Instead of hunting for coupon codes (that don't always work!) and opening tons of browser tabs comparing prices, you can try Capital One Shopping.
Capital One Shopping makes saving money effortless. Just add the browser extension and when you check out, it'll scour the internet for coupon codes to help you save cash. And before you check out at 25+ major retailers, Capital One Shopping will notify you with a friendly pop-up if the item you're buying is available cheaper somewhere else.
Capital One Shopping is free to use and won't show you ads. Add it today and stop overpaying! 1
Do I have to be a member to shop at Sam’s Club?
/images/2023/11/09/male-pharmacist-prescribing-medicines.jpeg)
You do have to be a member to take advantage of most of the deals at Sam’s Club, but it’s not necessary for some items.
For example, you don’t have to be a Sam’s Club member to take advantage of the in-store pharmacy.
Some states also have laws that forbid restricting alcohol sales to members of stores. So, you might be able to get discounted alcohol from your local Sam’s Club without a membership.
Is free shipping available on all items?
/images/2023/11/09/tablet-with-sams-club-logo.jpeg)
The Sam’s Club website can be a great option if you don’t want to shop in a Sam’s Club store. But keep in mind that free shipping might not be available to all shoppers on all items.
For example, your membership level can determine whether you can take advantage of free shipping.
It’s also good to check the listing for items you’re interested in, as not all items are eligible for free shipping.
Is gas cheaper at Sam's Club?
/images/2023/11/09/car-at-sams-club-gasoline-station.jpeg)
Check your local Sam’s Club and compare the cost of gas to what you would pay at a gas station in your area. Typically, you can save money if you fill your tank at Sam’s Club.
Generally, you will need a Sam’s Club membership to fill up at the retailer. But there are exceptions, with some stations open to the general public.
What is Scan & Go?
/images/2023/11/09/sams-club-logo-on-tablet-screen.jpeg)
Have you ever wanted to wander the aisles of Sam’s Club and then walk out the door without standing in line? You can with Scan & Go.
This option on your Sam’s Club app allows you to scan items as you walk through the store. This adds the item to the list of goods you’re purchasing.
Then, you simply pay using the app and walk out of the store.
Can I test out Sam’s Club before I get a membership?
/images/2023/11/09/inside-of-sams-club-warehouse.jpeg)
Perhaps you want to test out Sam’s Club before committing to a membership. You might want to check out the parking situation, or wander through the aisles to see if they have what you want.
Most people who are not already members can sign up for a free trial membership at Sam’s Club. Check with your local club to learn more.
How good is the Sam’s Club return policy?
/images/2023/11/09/gift-cards-in-sams-club-store.jpeg)
Sam’s Club has a generous return policy. Most items can be returned at any time. While the original receipt is helpful, it might not be necessary when returning an item.
However, restrictions apply to returns of some items, including electronics and cell phones. And you can’t return gift cards and some other items.
SPONSORED
Earn 2% cash rewards at grocery stores and Costco
The
Wells Fargo Active
Cash
®
Card
(Rates and fees)
is a powerful rewards card that allows you to
earn
unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
— including on groceries, even at warehouse stores like Costco.
New cardholders can also earn a one-time cash rewards bonus —
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months!
If you’re looking for a powerful rewards card that offers an extended intro APR period, look no further, the Wells Fargo Active Cash ® Card checks that box too!
This card also offers an intro APR of 0% for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers (then 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable). Which is great for someone who wants a break from high interest rates, while still earning rewards.
The best part? There's no annual fee .
Click here to apply for the Wells Fargo Active Cash ® Card now.
Can I save money on a car with a Sam’s Club membership?
/images/2023/11/09/car-dealer-dealing-with-couple.jpeg)
Yes, your Sam’s Club membership might help you save money on your next vehicle purchase.
Check out the Sam’s Club Auto Buying Program to see if it can help you earn extra incentives and other savings on your purchase.
Can I use any credit card at Sam's Club?
/images/2023/11/09/woman-holding-card-on-yellow-background.jpeg)
Just like at Sam’s Club, there are some great Costco hacks that members use to save money at the latter retailer. However, you can only use Visa-branded cards when you shop at Costco.
Sam’s Club does not have similar restrictions and accepts most major credit cards. Check the Sam’s Club website to see if your favorite payment methods are included.
Bottom line
/images/2023/11/09/car-parking-at-sams-club-warehouse.jpeg)
Sam’s Club is a great option if you’re trying to save money, but it’s also important to make sure a membership is right for you.
Remember that besides food and other in-warehouse purchases, a membership might save you money on things such as furniture, vacations, prescription medication, and more.
If you become a Sam’s Club member, consider using a great rewards credit card that will allow you to earn cash back or other perks when shopping at Sam’s Club.
Lucrative, Flat-Rate Cash Rewards
FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Current Offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases
Benefits
- $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
- Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
- Intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers
- $0 annual fee
Drawbacks
- Has foreign transaction fee
- No bonus categories
- Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
- Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
- 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
- $0 annual fee.
- No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
- Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Author Details