10 Smart Ways to Stop Wasting Money at Sam's Club

Sam's Club gives members the chance to save on everyday essentials with low prices and extras such as free Curbside Pickup and early shopping access for Plus members. Still, shoppers can make a few common mistakes that drive up costs.

To get the most from your membership, it helps to avoid these expensive habits.

Making several trips each month

It may seem harmless to stop in whenever you need one or two items.

But if you are not maximizing each visit, you may end up spending more time and money than necessary.

A single monthly trip to pick up everything on your list can keep your spending in check and help you focus on essentials instead of getting distracted by bulk bargains.

Buying too much in bulk

Bulk purchases can be useful, but it is worth asking whether every item in your home really needs a larger size.

Some products, including eggs and bread, may spoil before you can use them, so buying them in bulk is not always practical.

Think carefully about which items are worth stocking up on and which are better purchased elsewhere.

Ignoring the Sam's Club house brand

Member's Mark products can deliver name-brand quality at a lower price.

Swapping favorite branded items for Sam's Club's own label can lead to bigger savings, with options ranging from groceries to home goods.

Skipping price checks before shopping

If you want to stay on budget, researching prices ahead of time can make a big difference.

Sam's Club makes it easy to review prices through its website, app, or ads, which can help you plan your grocery trip and avoid overspending.

Overstuffing the pantry and refrigerator

It is important to shop with your available space in mind.

Buying in bulk without room to store everything can lead to clutter or wasted food. Clearing out old items from the fridge, pantry, or freezer first can make room for new purchases.

Not using the app

Pro tip: The Sam's Club app can save both time and effort, but many shoppers do not take full advantage of it.

It lets you check deals in advance and use the Scan & Go feature while you shop.

That means you can scan items as you go and pay in the app at the end instead of waiting in line.

Choosing a higher-tier membership without needing it

A standard Sam's Club membership costs $60 a year, and that is enough for many households.

If you will not use the extra benefits, it may make sense to skip the Plus card and save money. The Plus membership costs $120 a year and includes benefits such as free shipping, early access to deals, early shopping, pharmacy, optical and tire-center savings, and a cashback reward.

Not watching for sales

Keep an eye out for promotions before and during your shopping trip.

Some everyday items may be discounted, and checking online in advance can help you save on groceries. In-store yellow signs can also point you to special savings.

Getting tempted by samples

You may try a sample and immediately decide you want to buy the product.

But the store environment can make you feel hungry and impulsive, and those seemingly free tastes can add up if you buy everything you sample.

Stick to your list or limit yourself to one sample item that you know your household will actually use.

Overlooking store-exclusive items

Many warehouse clubs carry similar products, but it pays to look for items that are exclusive to Sam's Club so you know you are getting the best value.

Member's Mark includes exclusive products, and other familiar brands also offer bulk deals that are only available at Sam's Club.

Check what is unique to the store so you can save both time and money.

Bottom line

Keeping these habits in mind can help you save more on groceries and even larger purchases.

That is what your membership is for, after all. Shop more carefully and you can stretch your dollars further.

Intro Offer

$100 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months