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At this stage of the year, a lot of people are trying to find ways to cut back on spending to free up money for holiday purchases. So you may not be inclined to take on the expense of a warehouse club membership.
But joining Sam's Club this November could be one of the smartest financial decisions you make before the end of the year. Here's why it pays to sign up now.
1. You get access to warehouse club deals at a cheaper price than Costco
The nice thing about joining a warehouse club is getting access to great deals on groceries, household supplies, and more. And the savings you enjoy can more than make up for the cost of your membership fee. But you should know that Sam's Club offers lower membership fees than Costco, so you may find that you can get exceptional value out of its Club or Plus membership.
A Club membership costs $50 a year, while a Plus membership costs $110. And the Plus membership gives you 2% cash back on your Sam's Club purchases.
If the more expensive membership doesn't make sense for you, you can stick to the basic Club membership for $50 and use a great cash back credit card to make up the difference. Click here for a list of the best cash back credit cards available today.
Meanwhile, a basic Costco Gold Star membership costs $65 a year, while an Executive membership that offers the same 2% back as a Sam's Club Plus membership costs $130. You can save quite a bit on membership fees by opting for Sam's Club.
2. You have multiple options for shopping
November might be a busy month between your job, household responsibilities, and holiday shopping and prep. So you might enjoy the numerous shopping choices you have as a Sam's Club member. You can place orders online, shop in the store, or order items for curbside pickup.
As a bonus, Plus members get free shipping on eligible online orders of $50 or more, and free curbside pickup on all orders. Regular Sam's Club members get free curbside pickup on eligible orders of $50 or more.
One additional bonus of being a Plus member at Sam's Club is getting early access to the store. If you prefer to do your holiday shopping in person but you tend to get overwhelmed by crowds, that's a helpful benefit.
3. You can take advantage of holiday deals
No matter how long your holiday shopping list is, your goal may be to spend as little money as possible. At Sam's Club, you'll find competitive prices on a wide range of items, from gifts to decor to foods that you may want to put on your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner table.
Also, Sam's Club stocks a variety of products you won't find at any other retailer. These include toys, apparel, and other items you may want to stick under your Christmas tree this December.
The Sam's Club signature Member's Mark brand, for example, has a Wooden Farmstyle Dollhouse (available online for $59.77) that might be the perfect gift for your child. And the Member's Mark Jerky Treat Advent Calendar for Dogs ($14.98 online) might make a great gift for your boss who's obsessed with their pup.
You could wait until the start of the new year to join a warehouse club store. And you could also choose one that isn't Sam's Club. But for these reasons, it pays to consider signing up for a membership at Sam's Club before November ends.
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We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
