Which membership is more worthwhile?

One key difference could be crucial for you.

Life seems more expensive than ever these days. One easy and reliable way to save money is to buy in bulk, so if you’ve been thinking about joining a big box store, it’s probably worth the membership fee.

Two of the most popular membership clubs are Costco and Sam’s Club, which is owned by Walmart. Although they sell many of the same household items, you may be wondering which one makes the most sense for you and your family. Here are the differences between the two wholesale stores in case you can’t decide right now.

Related: This Costco membership benefit lets you score huge savings on expensive items

Membership fee

Costco offers three membership options. The two cheapest tiers are Gold Star and Business membership, which cost $60 per year. The only major difference between the two is that the Business membership allows you to add affiliate cardholders for $60 each.

Costco Executive Membership costs $120 per year and offers additional benefits and savings on Costco services, as well as 2 percent off all qualified purchases.

Sam’s Club offers two membership levels: Club and Plus. The Club membership costs $50 per year, while the Plus membership costs $110. The upgraded Plus membership gets you free curbside pickup, discounted same-day delivery fees, free shipping, and 2 percent off up to $500 per year, so it can definitely pay off.

Prices in store

According to a 2022 Business Insider review, Costco has better prices. However, other sources say Sam’s Club is cheaper. However, it doesn’t matter how good the deal on steaks is if you’re a vegetarian. If you’re not sure where you’re more likely to save, check prices online for the products you plan to buy most often.

refund policy

Every store has a 100 percent satisfaction return guarantee, but there are exceptions, such as electronics and major appliances, which must be returned within 90 days. The only big difference is when it comes to returning cell phones: Sam’s Club only gives you two weeks.

Sam’s Club has a big advantage over Costco (and that could be a dealbreaker)

Don’t like the notoriously long lines at Costco? Then you’re out of luck. Sam’s Club, on the other hand, offers you two ways to get out faster. Sam’s Club offers curbside pickup as well as a “Scan and Go” option in the Sam’s Club app. You even get a running total as you shop, making it easier for price-conscious shoppers. These might be reason enough to choose Sam’s Club over Costco.

Related: Don’t Make These 11 Shopping Mistakes at Sam’s Club

The judgment

Unless you’re extremely loyal to a particular product from Costco’s Kirkland store brands or Sam’s Club’s Member’s Mark, it probably makes the most sense to join the retailer that’s most conveniently located or has the lowest prices on the products you buy most often.

However, it can also come down to convenience. Costco has more locations, with 876 warehouses worldwide, while Sam’s Club has about 600 locations. Either way, you’ll still save money when shopping at these wholesalers compared to traditional retailers. So there really is no incorrect Decision here.

Still not sure which one to choose?

If you have a friend who is a member at either store, you can accompany them to get a better idea of ​​the shopping experience. Another option is to shop with a gift card, although the gift card surcharge is 5 percent at Costco and 10 percent at Sam’s Club.

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