Longtime Savinly staff writer Laura Bennett has been a dedicated Sam’s Club shopper since the early ’90s.
For her, the warehouse membership means fewer grocery runs and bigger savings — roughly $200 a month, she figures.
And it isn’t only the bulk pricing that helps her keep costs down. From free prescriptions to steeply marked-down fresh meat and an eye for clearance finds, there are plenty of tactics to stretch your dollars even further at Sam’s Club.
We recently tagged along on one of her shopping excursions to watch the many specific ways she trims expenses at Sam’s Club. (Also, see the video above.)
1. Install the Sam’s Club Scan & Go App
Bennett says she saves at least half an hour on each trip by using the Sam’s Club Scan & Go app.
Essentially, you scan each item’s barcode while you shop, tap “Pay,” then the friendly associate at the exit will verify your receipt and your cart, and you’re out the door.
2. Learn the Pricing Codes
There’s a reason behind those odd price endings. Prices that end in .01, .31 and .91 (and similar) typically signal sale or clearance items.
Next, check the inventory code. A “C” indicates the product is being cleared out of inventory, so it’s likely to be reduced further.
3. Take Advantage of Free Prescriptions
Upgrade to a Sam’s Plus membership and you may qualify for up to five free generic prescriptions.
4. Hunt for Marked-Down Meat
If you’re after deals on meat, shop Sam’s Club in the morning. That’s when “quick sale” markdowns on premium cuts often appear.
5. Bring a Friend — or Two
Sam’s Club members: you can bring up to two guests with you. Share the savings and bring someone along.
6. Try the “Freeosk”
Have you noticed that odd vending machine in the store? It’s called a Freeosk. Scan your membership card and grab a complimentary item — anything from a coffee cup to pet supplies.
7. Earn Instant Cash Back
If you carry a cash-back credit card, see whether it offers bonus cash back at Sam’s Club. When you shop online, you might earn as much as 5% back!
8. Accumulate Cash Rewards
Sam’s Plus members don’t just get perks on prescriptions — you’ll also receive $10 back for every $500 in eligible purchases.
Alex Monroe is a staff writer at Savinly. Growing up, Alex trailed behind family members during their Sam’s Club runs. The samples were worth it; the checkout lines were not.
For more on membership perks and shipping benefits, read about sams club plus membership free shipping.
