Walking into Sam’s Club can feel like stepping into a treasure chest of deals, but knowing what to actually grab and what to skip can make a huge difference. With so many bulk buys and limited-time offers, it’s easy to get carried away and toss things in your cart just because they seem like a bargain. The trick is to shop with a little strategy so you don’t waste money or end up with stuff you won’t use. Whether you’re a regular or it’s your first time getting that oversized cart, a few helpful tips can go a long way. Here’s a mix of do’s and don’ts to help you shop smarter and make the most out of your next trip.
Contents
- 1 Do: Download the Sam’s Club App Before You Shop
- 2 Don’t: Get Pulled In Just Because the Price Looks Low
- 3 Do: Grab the Instant Savings Book When You Walk In
- 4 Don’t: Assume Everything Is the Lowest Price Available
- 5 Do: Buy Gift Cards When They’re Discounted
- 6 Don’t: Choose Delivery Unless You Really Need It
- 7 Do: Use Cashback and Rewards Apps When Shopping
- 8 More From RetailShout
- 9 10 Best Liquor Buys at Sam’s Club for Quality and Savings
- 10 Top 12 Frozen Food Picks at Sam’s Club You Need to Try
Do: Download the Sam’s Club App Before You Shop
The Sam’s Club app isn’t just for checking prices. It has a Scan & Go feature that lets you scan items as you shop and skip the checkout line entirely. You can also use it to access the Instant Savings Book, refill prescriptions, and see fuel prices at nearby Sam’s gas stations. The app helps you keep track of your receipts and previous purchases, which makes it easier to stick to your shopping plan. Plus, you’ll get updates on deals and restocks. If you shop at Sam’s regularly, having the app on your phone can make the whole experience smoother and faster.
Don’t: Get Pulled In Just Because the Price Looks Low
It’s tempting to grab something when the price tag screams clearance or instant savings, but that doesn’t automatically mean it’s worth it. Some items at Sam’s Club may seem like a steal until you compare them to prices at other stores or realize you don’t really need them. A bulk pack of snacks that goes stale before you can finish it isn’t money well spent. Before adding anything to your cart, think about how often you’ll use it, whether you have the space to store it, and if it actually fits into your regular budget. Sam’s is great for deals, but buying impulsively just because something is marked down can lead to overspending. Stick to your list and make sure every item has a purpose.
Do: Grab the Instant Savings Book When You Walk In
The Sam’s Club Instant Savings Book is basically your cheat sheet for getting the best deals during your visit. It features limited-time offers that are automatically applied at checkout, so you won’t need to clip coupons or scan anything. The book usually includes markdowns on a variety of items like snacks, household goods, electronics, and seasonal finds. You can also view the digital version through the app or online, which helps with planning ahead. Since deals rotate frequently, checking the latest edition can help you time your shopping around the discounts. Think of it as an easy way to get more value out of your membership without extra effort.
Don’t: Assume Everything Is the Lowest Price Available
Just because something is sold in bulk doesn’t guarantee it’s the best deal. Some items at Sam’s Club may actually cost more per unit than what you’d find on sale at a regular grocery store. It helps to know your prices or have a price-checking app ready so you can do quick comparisons. This is especially true for things like produce, name-brand cereals, and certain frozen foods. Sam’s can still offer good value, but it pays to double-check instead of blindly trusting that bigger means cheaper. Being a little more mindful at checkout can save you from spending more than necessary.
Do: Buy Gift Cards When They’re Discounted
Sam’s Club regularly sells gift cards for restaurants, entertainment, and retailers at reduced prices. You might see a $100 value sold for $80, which is an easy way to save money on places you already shop or eat at. These discounts are available both in-store and online, and they’re especially useful around holidays or birthdays. If you’re someone who dines out often or likes to give gift cards as presents, this can be a simple win. Stocking up on discounted cards for your favorite spots is like giving yourself a built-in sale. Just make sure you check the expiration dates and redemption instructions before you buy.
Don’t: Choose Delivery Unless You Really Need It
Sam’s Club offers delivery for many items, but it usually comes with added fees and service charges that can eat into your savings. Plus, not all in-store prices or promotions apply to online orders, which means you could be missing out on better deals. For heavy items or non-perishables, in-club pickup is often a better option if you want convenience without the extra cost. Delivery might make sense during busy weeks or for big household orders, but it shouldn’t be your go-to every time. A quick trip to the store could end up saving you more in the long run.
Do: Use Cashback and Rewards Apps When Shopping
Apps like Ibotta, Fetch, and Rakuten often have cashback deals for purchases made at Sam’s Club, both in-store and online. While some offers may only apply to specific items or brands, the savings can add up over time. You just scan your receipt or activate the offer before checkout and collect your rewards later. Some credit cards also offer extra cashback on wholesale purchases, so it’s worth checking what benefits your card includes. Combining these with Sam’s in-house savings can stretch your dollars even further. It’s an easy habit to build that can turn into a nice little bonus each month.
This article originally appeared on RetailShout.
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