When it comes to warehouse clubs, both Sam’s Club and Costco offer great deals and savings on bulk items. However, if you’re considering upgrading to a premium membership, Sam’s Club provides unique perks that Costco lacks. By investing in a Sam’s Club Plus membership, you can unlock five valuable benefits unavailable to Costco members.
Key Takeaways:
- Free shipping and curbside pickup for online orders
- Early shopping hours to beat the crowds
- Monthly cash back instead of waiting for annual rewards
- Discounted prescription drugs and additional savings
- Convenient Scan & Go mobile checkout option
5 Sam’s Club Membership Perks That Costco Doesn’t Have
Warehouse clubs like Sam’s Club and Costco are popular destinations for savvy shoppers looking to save money on groceries, household essentials, and more. While both retailers offer enticing membership options, Sam’s Club stands out by providing exclusive perks to its Plus members that you won’t find with a Costco membership.
Upgrading to a Sam’s Club Plus membership unlocks five valuable benefits unavailable to Costco members, making it a compelling choice for those seeking maximum value and convenience
Free Shipping and Curbside Pickup
One of the most significant advantages of a Sam’s Club Plus membership is the complimentary shipping and curbside pickup services. With free shipping on most online orders, Plus members can shop from the comfort of their homes without incurring additional fees. This perk applies to both the primary member and any complimentary cardholders on the account.
Additionally, Plus members can take advantage of free curbside pickup, allowing them to retrieve their orders without leaving their vehicles. This convenient service is perfect for those with busy schedules or mobility limitations, saving time and effort.
In contrast, Costco charges fees for online orders and delivery through Instacart, often marking up item prices. Many items shipped from Costco.com also incur additional shipping charges, even for Executive members, adding to the overall cost.
Early Shopping Hours
Warehouse clubs can get crowded, especially during peak shopping times. Sam’s Club Plus members enjoy the privilege of early shopping hours, gaining access to the club before regular opening times. Depending on the location, Plus members can enter as early as 8:00 a.m. on weekends and 10:00 a.m. on weekdays, while regular members have to wait until later.
Early access to the club allows Plus members to shop in a less crowded environment, reducing wait times and making the overall experience more pleasant. Furthermore, early birds can take advantage of newly restocked shelves and have first dibs on limited-time deals or popular items.
Costco, on the other hand, does not offer any early shopping perks to its Executive members, meaning everyone has to shop during regular club hours, regardless of membership tier.
Monthly Cash Back Instead of Annual Rewards
Both Sam’s Club and Costco offer cash back rewards on qualifying purchases, but Sam’s Club has a distinct advantage in terms of redemption. Plus members at Sam’s Club earn 2% cash back on eligible purchases, with a maximum reward of $500 per year.
However, unlike Costco, which provides cash rewards through an annual certificate, Sam’s Club deposits the cash back into members’ accounts monthly. This means Plus members can access and redeem their rewards more frequently, without having to wait an entire year.
For members who prefer a steady stream of savings or value the flexibility of monthly rewards, Sam’s Club’s cash back program is a clear winner over Costco’s annual payout system.
Discounted Prescription Drugs
Healthcare costs can be a significant expense for many households, which is why Sam’s Club’s prescription drug benefits are a valuable perk for Plus members. In addition to the club’s already competitive prices on medications, Plus members can access over 600 generic prescriptions for $10 or less for a 30-day supply.
Furthermore, Sam’s Club offers additional discounts on a wide range of prescription drugs, providing further savings for Plus members. This benefit can be particularly advantageous for those managing chronic conditions or requiring multiple medications.
While Costco does have a member prescription program, the savings at Sam’s Club tend to be more substantial, and Costco does not provide any additional prescription discounts as a perk of upgrading to an Executive membership.
Scan & Go Mobile Checkout
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is king, and Sam’s Club’s Scan & Go feature offers a seamless shopping experience for all members, regardless of membership tier. Using the Sam’s Club mobile app, shoppers can scan product barcodes as they shop, keeping track of their running total and skipping the traditional checkout lines.
Once finished shopping, members can complete the payment process electronically through the app, making for a contactless and efficient checkout experience. This feature not only saves time but also helps members stay within their budget by providing real-time spending updates.
Costco, on the other hand, does not offer a comparable mobile checkout option, leaving members to contend with the traditional checkout process, which can be time-consuming during peak hours.
Conclusion:
When it comes to maximizing value and convenience, a Sam’s Club Plus membership offers several distinct advantages over Costco’s membership options. From free shipping and curbside pickup to early shopping hours and discounted prescription drugs, the perks of a Sam’s Club Plus membership cater to the needs of modern shoppers seeking efficiency and cost savings.
monthly cash back rewards and the innovative Scan & Go mobile checkout feature further elevate the Sam’s Club experience, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a warehouse club membership that truly goes above and beyond.
So, whether you’re a busy professional, a family focused on saving, or someone looking to simplify their shopping routine, upgrading to a Sam’s Club Plus membership could be the key to unlocking a world of exclusive benefits and unparalleled value.
FAQs
How does the Scan & Go feature work?
The Scan & Go feature is a convenient tool that allows Sam’s Club members to scan items using their smartphones as they shop. Once shopping is complete, members can pay directly through the app and skip the checkout lines. This feature streamlines the shopping experience and saves time.
Are the fuel savings at Sam’s Club significant?
Yes, Sam’s Club often provides substantial discounts on fuel for its members. These savings can add up over time, especially for those who frequently fill up their vehicles. The exact discount can vary by location and current fuel prices.
What types of health screenings are available for free at Sam’s Club?
Sam’s Club offers a range of free health screenings for members, including tests for cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure, and body mass index (BMI). These screenings are typically available monthly and do not require an appointment.
How do Instant Savings work at Sam’s Club?
Instant Savings are additional discounts on top of the regular member prices. These savings are automatically applied at checkout and can be accessed through the Sam’s Club app or website. They are often available for a limited time on a rotating selection of products.
What is Club Pickup and how does it benefit members?
Club Pickup allows members to order items online and pick them up at their local Sam’s Club without leaving their car. This service is convenient for busy members who want to save time and avoid walking through the store. After placing an order online, members can choose a pickup time, and their items will be brought out to their vehicle upon arrival.
Do I need a special membership to access these perks?
No, these perks are available to all Sam’s Club members. Whether you have a standard or a Plus membership, you can take advantage of the Scan & Go feature, fuel savings, free health screenings, Instant Savings, and Club Pickup services.
Are there any additional costs associated with these perks?
Generally, these perks are included with your Sam’s Club membership. However, certain services or features, such as the Plus membership, might offer enhanced benefits or additional savings that could come with a higher membership fee. It’s best to review the details of each membership type to understand the full range of benefits and any associated costs.
