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8 Items That Were Cheaper at Sam’s Club Than Costco



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Today’s shoppers know that warehouse clubs offer great deals to help save money, but which gives you more bang for your buck?
GOBankingRates compared Sam’s Club and Costco to find where your dollar stretches furthest.
Membership Fee
Sam’s Club basic membership was $50 annually, while Costco’s Gold Star membership cost $60. That extra $10 in your pocket could buy you a rotisserie chicken and still leave change for a soft serve.
Hot Dog Combo
Sam’s Club’s quarter-pound hot dog and 30-ounce drink combo was $1.38, edging out Costco’s famous $1.50 deal. It might seem small, but for food court regulars, those savings add up faster than you can say “extra kraut.”
Ground Beef
A 5-pound pack of 80/20 ground beef at Sam’s Club was often priced lower than Costco’s equivalent. For families who go through beef like there’s no tomorrow, this could mean some serious savings over time.
Canned Vegetables
Sam’s Club’s Member’s Mark canned veggies, like green beans and corn, typically cost less per can than Costco’s Kirkland Signature brand. Stock that pantry without breaking the bank!
Gain Laundry Powder
Sam’s Club stocked the 180-ounce box of Gain Original Scent laundry powder, which Costco didn’t carry. Brand loyalty sometimes trumps price, especially when keeping your clothes fresh and clean.
Toilet Paper
Sam’s Club’s Member’s Mark Ultra Premium Bath Tissue, a 45-roll pack with 275 sheets per roll, was often priced lower than Costco’s Kirkland Signature Bath Tissue, which comes in a 30-roll pack with 425 sheets per roll.
Paper Towels
The Member’s Mark Premium Paper Towels 15-roll pack at Sam’s Club frequently beat out Costco’s Kirkland Signature Paper Towels 12-roll pack on price per square foot.
Produce
Many shoppers reported finding better deals on produce at Sam’s Club. For example, a 3 lb bag of Gala apples or a 2-pound container of strawberries often cost less at Sam’s than at Costco.
Cereal
Name-brand cereals like Cheerios and Froot Loops typically came in larger boxes for less at Sam’s Club compared to Costco. Breakfast just got more affordable!
Snack Foods
Sam’s Club often had better prices on bulk snacks. For instance, a 50-count variety pack of chips or a 45-ounce jar of Planters mixed nuts frequently costs less than similar offerings at Costco.
Clothing
While both clubs sell apparel, Sam’s Club’s men’s polo shirts and women’s activewear were often priced lower than comparable items at Costco. Looking good doesn’t have to break the bank!
Gas
Sam’s Club gas prices were typically a few cents cheaper per gallon than Costco’s. Plus, their Mastercard offered 5% cash back on gas purchases up to $6,000 yearly, beating Costco’s Visa card’s 4% back.
Remember, prices can vary by location and over time. Costco still wins for some items, especially organics and certain premium brands. The smartest shoppers know their prices and aren’t afraid to split their loyalty if it means bigger savings in the long run.
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