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Trying to decide whether to join Costco or Sam’s Club to save on gas? The gas at these retailers differ. Find out why Costco may be a better gas station. [[{“value”:”
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Many shoppers invest in annual warehouse club memberships to save money on everyday purchases like food and drinks, clothing, cleaning supplies, and toiletries. But there are additional ways Costco and Sam’s Club members can use their membership benefits to save money.
Both warehouse clubs also offer discounted gasoline to members. Whether you drive a sedan or an SUV, getting a discount every time you fill up your tank can be a win for your checking account.
Are you trying to decide whether to join Costco or Sam’s Club? If you plan to use the gas discount perks, you may want to consider the differences between each warehouse club’s gas stations. Let’s explore why Costco gas stations are better than Sam’s Club’s.
Costco sells high-quality gasoline
The quality of gasoline sold at gas stations can differ significantly. The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends that drivers use gasoline that meets TOP TIER™ standards. TOP TIER™-certified gasoline meets the fuel performance standards set by engine manufacturers.
You can research which retailers sell gas that meets TOP TIER™ standards online. If you’re particular about the quality of the gasoline you put in your gas tank, consider joining Costco instead of Sam’s Club. Costco is a TOP TIER™-approved retailer.
According to the TOP TIER™ website, Costco sells TOP TIER™ gasoline at its clubs in the United States and Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, and Japan. Unfortunately, Sam’s Club isn’t included on the TOP TIER™-approved gasoline list.
Costco has more locations
Costco and Sam’s Club continue to expand their presence across the United States. The number of clubs that each brand has in the United States and Puerto Rico is close — but Costco takes a slight lead with more club locations.
Sam’s Club notes on its website that the retailer has almost 600 clubs in the United States and Puerto Rico. Meanwhile, a May 2024 news report from Costco notes that the retailer has 605 club locations within the United States and Puerto Rico.
While not every Costco or Sam’s Club has gas stations, many do. Since Costco has more clubs, you may find there are more opportunities to fill up your tank with gasoline. Regardless of which warehouse club you join, it’s a good idea to check to see if your closest club sells gas.
Compare membership perks and gas prices
You may be unsure which warehouse club to join if you have Costco and Sam’s Club locations near your home. Consider whether the quality of the gasoline you put in your tank matters to you. If not, there are other things to consider.
You can research gas prices in your local area to help decide which warehouse club is ideal for you. Both retailers list gas prices for each location on their websites, so you can check to see which brand offers the biggest savings.
You can also compare membership perks and prices on each retailer’s website. You’ll spend $50 or $110 to be a Sam’s Club member. Costco membership prices cost $60 or $120 annually.
However, starting in September, Costco membership costs will increase from $5 to $10 to $65 and $130 per year.
Members-only deals found at warehouse clubs can help you get all the essentials you need, including gasoline, without racking up an expensive credit card bill.
Plus, you can use one of the best credit cards for Costco to earn rewards when you swipe your card. This can be a great way to maximize your savings.
Top credit cards to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
If you’re shopping with a debit card, you could be missing out on hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year. These versatile credit cards offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco, and are rated the best cards of 2024 by our experts because they offer hefty sign-up bonuses and outstanding cash rewards. Plus, you’ll save on credit card interest because all of these recommendations include a competitive 0% interest period.
Click here to read our expert recommendations for free!
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.Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
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