5 Items for Retirees To Splurge On, Settle For or Skip at Sam’s Club
Written by
Marc Guberti
Edited by
Gary Dudak
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Sam’s Club has helped millions of people save money, but retirees especially have a lot to gain by shopping there. With their often limited budgets, they also have to be extra careful with their purchases.
Therefore, knowing what to buy and avoid at your local Sam’s Club can help retirees stretch each dollar.
Splurge: Groceries
Sam’s Club offers a wide selection of groceries that can leave you feeling full at great prices. Rotisserie chicken and salads are two of the highlights. Customers can also choose from several canned foods to receive discounts while getting in their calories.
According to the USDA, canned food can “last for years, as long as the can itself is in good condition (no rust, dents, or swelling).” It’s better to buy these products in bulk compared to perishable food that will expire within one week.
Splurge: Cleaning Supplies
Keeping your house clean can save you a lot of money in the long run. You’re less likely to deal with mold and some of the other issues that can show up than if your home doesn’t receive proper maintenance. Cleaning supplies cost money, and Sam’s Club helps to keep the prices low.
You can choose from laundry detergent, paper towels and other cleaning supplies at great prices per ounce or unit. These products don’t expire, and you’ll have a continuous need for them.
Settle: Books
While Sam’s Club offers many great deals, it’s not the best choice for avid readers. You can find better deals at thrift stores or maximize your savings by purchasing eBooks instead of physical books. Sam’s Club isn’t a library and has a limited selection of books that are geared toward children.
Skip: Sunscreen
Sunscreen expires quickly and is only useful when you’re staying out for a long period of time. Bulk purchases for this product don’t work as well unless you’re organizing a large gathering where everyone wants sunscreen. You don’t have to buy much sunscreen to get through the summer, and it also depends on how long you stay outdoors.
Skip: Breakfast Cereal
Breakfast cereal isn’t the healthiest food option, and most cereal boxes have more air than actual cereal. Furthermore, it can be foolish to store bulk orders. Even customers who eat cereal multiple times per week may have a hard time justifying a bulk purchase. Furthermore, most cereal expires within 6-8 months.
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