7 Tricks to Saving Money at Sam’s Club

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Sam’s Club is one of the world’s largest retailers. Here’s how to become a member and shop at a discount. 

As one of the world’s largest retailers, Sam’s Club is on a mission to up its game. For members, the trick is to be aware of any new Sam’s Club benefits that become available, and to adopt as many money saving moves as possible. Here are seven of them.

1. There’s rarely a reason to pay full price for a membership

Let’s face it; Sam’s Club offers incredible discounts on its membership prices on a fairly regular basis. For example, through Oct. 15, the price of a Club card is slashed from $50 to $15. And the $110 Plus card is only $55.

Even if you miss out on these deals, you’ll often find Sam’s Club membership discounts on sites like Groupon. If you’re thinking about joining Sam’s Club, keep your eyes peeled for specials.

2. Pull out those Walmart gift cards

Although Sam’s Club is part of the giant Walmart world, it’s surprising how few of us know that Walmart gift cards can be used on Sam’s Club purchases. What’s special about that? Far more consumers shop at Walmart than the members-only Sam’s Club each year. That means folks are more likely to pick up Walmart gift cards to give as gifts.

If you happen to receive a Walmart gift card, remember that you have the option of saving money at Sam’s Club by using it online or in-store.

3. Take advantage of freebies

You know that you can practically eat your body weight in samples by simply strolling around Sam’s Club, but were you aware of the amount of free stuff you can snag by scanning your membership card at a “Freeosk” kiosk located in stores?

Samples are sometimes something as small as a coupon. And sometimes, you get a free, full-sized product, like a photo book or mug.

4. Don’t pay for prescription drugs when you can get them for free

Chances are, long-time Plus card members are well aware of their access to select free prescription drugs. If you have not yet been introduced to the program, here are the details. Select Sam’s Club Pharmacies around the country offer these 10 generic prescription drugs for $0:

AmlodipineDonepezilEscitalopramFinasterideLisinoprilMetforminMontelukastPioglitazoneSertralineVitamin D2 50,000 IU

Members in Arizona, California, and Minnesota do not have access to free drugs due to laws in their states, but they can purchase any of the drugs listed for $2 for a 30-day supply.

5. Sign up for email alerts

Another lesser-known money-saving trick is to sign up for email alerts from Sam’s Club. While it’s understandable that you don’t want to deal with one more advertisement in your inbox, signing up for alerts means you’ll receive everyday money saving insights.

While you’re at it, make a note to regularly check the Sam’s Club website’s Shocking Values page. You’ll find some truly sweet deals there.

6. Shop the perimeter

Did you know that Sam’s Club tends to place its best deals around the outside of the store and tuck its impulse buys in the center? If you’re all about finding the good deals fast, stick with the outer perimeter. And if you’re prone to impulse purchases that drain your bank account, you may even want to avoid shopping the interior.

7. Outsmart impulse buying

Another way to avoid impulse purchases is to place your order online and use club pick-up. It may seem like a small thing, but imagine if you could save an extra $15 or $20 a week in impulse buys. That’s an additional $780 to $1,040 to tuck away in your emergency savings account annually. It’s not only a painless way to save, but it’s also convenient.

Given that Sam’s Club and Costco are in direct competition, it’s easy to imagine that bargains will only get better over time. As of now, though, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your Sam’s Club membership while still saving money.

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We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Dana George has positions in Walmart. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Walmart. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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