Additional Coverage:
- 13 Overpriced Sam’s Club Items You Should Skip (financebuzz.com)
Think Before You Bulk Buy: Is Sam’s Club Always a Bargain?
While a Sam’s Club membership can offer significant savings, it’s not always the best option for every item. Bulk buying can sometimes lead to more waste and higher overall costs if you’re not careful. Here’s a look at some items you might want to reconsider buying in bulk at Sam’s Club:
Produce: While tempting, buying large quantities of fresh produce like fruits and vegetables at Sam’s Club can backfire. Consider whether you can realistically consume the entire amount before it spoils. Smaller purchases at your local grocery store might be more economical in the long run.
Milk: Milk is a household staple, but before grabbing a gallon at Sam’s, compare prices with other retailers like Walmart (which owns Sam’s Club). You might be surprised to find a better deal elsewhere.
Books: Sam’s Club’s book selection can be tempting, but online retailers often offer better prices, especially for used books.
Spices: Buying spices in bulk can be wasteful, as they lose their potency over time. Opt for smaller quantities at your local grocery store to ensure freshness.
Soda: Check your local grocery store flyers for soda sales before heading to Sam’s. Supermarkets frequently discount soda, potentially offering better per-can prices.
Laundry Detergent: Detergent does expire, and its cleaning power diminishes over time. Assess your laundry habits and determine if you can use a bulk-size container before it loses effectiveness.
Diapers: While the cost of diapers can quickly add up, compare prices at other retailers like Walmart before stocking up at Sam’s.
Pet Supplies: Items like dog beds might be more affordable at other pet stores or online retailers.
Snacks (Chips): Similar to soda, local grocery stores often have sales on chips, making them a potentially cheaper option.
Holiday Decor: Dollar stores and craft stores are often treasure troves of affordable holiday decorations, potentially offering similar items at lower prices than Sam’s Club.
Furniture: Sam’s Club might not always have the best furniture selection or prices. Explore other furniture retailers for potentially better deals and a wider variety.
Medication (Over-the-Counter): Consider the expiration dates and your usage before buying over-the-counter medications in bulk. Smaller quantities might be more practical.
Toothpaste: Check your local grocery store or pharmacy for deals on toothpaste, as they often have sales on everyday essentials.
Bottom Line: Sam’s Club can be a great resource for bulk buying, but it pays to be a savvy shopper. Compare unit prices and consider potential waste before purchasing. Sometimes, your local grocery store or other retailers offer better deals on certain items.
Read More About This Story:
- 13 Overpriced Sam’s Club Items You Should Skip (financebuzz.com)