Most people join Sam’s Club to save money on groceries, household essentials, and bulk purchases that make shopping more affordable. But if you’re only going there to stock up on paper towels, snacks, and laundry detergent, you could be missing out on some of the best benefits that come with your membership.
Sam’s Club offers perks beyond bulk shopping, including savings on gas, prescriptions, travel, and other everyday expenses. Depending on how often you use them, some of these benefits could help cover the cost of your annual membership.
Here are 15 Sam’s Club perks worth using if you want to get more for your money.
Curbside Pickup
Sometimes the biggest savings come from not having to walk through the store in the first place. Sam’s Club offers curbside pickup, letting members order groceries and household essentials online and have them brought out to their cars, saving time and helping avoid those unplanned purchases that always seem to end up in the cart.
Prescription Discounts
The pharmacy is one of those membership benefits that’s easy to overlook when you’re focused on grocery shopping. Sam’s Club offers member pricing on certain prescriptions, and Plus members may qualify for additional savings on eligible medications, making it worth comparing prices with your regular pharmacy.
Affordable Glasses and Contact Lenses
Replacing glasses or stocking up on contact lenses can get expensive, so it’s worth checking the optical center before paying full price somewhere else. Many Sam’s Club locations offer prescription eyewear, contact lenses, and access to eye exams, giving members another option for comparing prices.
Health Screenings and Wellness Services
Depending on the location, Sam’s Club pharmacies may offer vaccinations and other wellness services, making it convenient to take care of basic health needs while shopping. Some clubs have also hosted free health screening events, although availability and services can vary, so it’s worth checking with your local club.
Sam’s Cash Rewards for Plus Members
One of the biggest advantages of a Plus membership is earning 2% back in Sam’s Cash on qualifying purchases, subject to program limits. If you’re already spending a significant amount on eligible items throughout the year, those rewards can help offset the higher membership cost without changing your shopping habits.
Early Shopping Hours
Anyone who’s tried shopping at a warehouse club on a busy Saturday knows how quickly the aisles can fill up. Plus members get access to early shopping hours at participating locations, making it easier to get in, grab what you need, and leave before the busiest crowds arrive.
Travel Discounts
You might not think of Sam’s Club when planning a vacation, but members can access travel and entertainment offers through its member services. Check available hotel, rental car, and other travel deals before booking, since even one discounted reservation can make a noticeable difference in your travel budget.
Tire Installation and Auto Services
Buying tires is rarely cheap, so the Tire & Battery Center is worth keeping in mind when your vehicle needs new ones. Participating Sam’s Club locations offer tire installation and related services, and comparing the total package price with other tire retailers could save you money.
Instant Savings Without Coupons
One thing I appreciate about warehouse shopping is not having to spend time searching for coupons before checking out. Sam’s Club regularly offers Instant Savings on eligible products, with discounts applied automatically, so it’s worth looking through the current offers before making your shopping list.
Online-Only Deals
Not everything Sam’s Club sells is available on the warehouse shelves, and sometimes the online selection is worth checking before heading to the store. Furniture, electronics, seasonal merchandise, and other household items may have online-only offers you wouldn’t discover on a regular shopping trip.
Bulk Savings on Household Essentials
Buying in bulk isn’t automatically cheaper, but it can make a real difference when you’re purchasing products your household uses consistently. I like comparing the price per unit on things like laundry detergent, trash bags, paper towels, and pantry staples because that’s where the savings can really add up over time.
Seasonal and Home Improvement Deals
Sam’s Club carries more than groceries, and some of its seasonal merchandise is worth a look before shopping at a home improvement store. From patio furniture and outdoor storage to appliances and holiday decorations, members can sometimes find competitive prices on purchases they were already planning.
Electronics and Tech Support Benefits
Before buying a television, laptop, or other expensive electronic device, compare Sam’s Club prices and check what support or protection options come with the purchase. Some electronics include manufacturer support, extended warranty coverage, or optional protection plans, but these benefits depend on the product and current offer.
Exclusive Member Products and Bundles
Some of the best deals at Sam’s Club come from products you can’t easily compare with the exact same item at another retailer. Its Member’s Mark brand offers alternatives to many national brands, while exclusive bundles and larger package sizes can provide better value when the products are things you’ll actually use.
Lower Gas Prices
If your local Sam’s Club has a gas station, compare its prices with nearby stations before filling up. Even saving a few cents per gallon can add up over the year, especially if you drive frequently or have multiple vehicles in your household.
