With grocery prices still high, more shoppers are turning to warehouse clubs like Sams Club and Costco to stretch their budgets.
But starting next month, Sams Club is raising membership fees, making it more important than ever to plan wisely. For longtime Sams Club member Nyshyara Wells, buying in bulk has always been a practical way to save.
I have a family to feed, and they eat a lot, she said.
Wells said for families like hers, the value is clear.
You get three, four times more than you would at a regular store, Wells said.
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Buying in bulk can save you money, but experts say it only works if you focus on the right items. Christopher Baxter, general manager at Sams Club, points to everyday essentials as some of the best bulk buys.
When you look at things like paper towels, toilet paper, I think baby care items are really big for our members, Baxter said.
He said cleaning supplies and laundry detergent are also valuable buys.
WATCH: What to expect from Sam’s Club membership price increases
What to know about Sam’s Club membership price increasesWhat will price increases look like?
Sams Club memberships are increasing by $10. The basic club membership will rise to $60 a year, while the plus membership will cost $120.
Sam’s Club pricing after May 1:
Club Membership: Rising from $50 $60/year Plus Membership: Rising from $110 $120/year
Even after the increase, Sams Club will still be slightly cheaper than Costco:
Costco Basic: $65/year Costco Premium: $130/year
Baxter said the price increase will support added perks for members, including enhanced delivery programs and the ability to shop on your phone and skip checkout lines.
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Members can also save at the pump. Both Sams Club and Costco often charge 10 to 30 cents less per gallon than other nearby stations.
Still, bulk buying isnt automatically a money-saver. Experts warn that impulse purchases can quickly erase the benefits. Before you join, ask yourself:
Will you shop there often enough to justify the membership? Is the store conveniently located (not too far from your home)? Do you have space for bulk items?Membership discounts available
For those looking to join, there are limited-time offers that could reduce membership fees. Sams Club is offering new member discounts through April 23, but these deals do not apply to renewals:
Plus Membership: $50 off Club Membership: $20 off
If you buy essentials in bulk, take advantage of fuel discounts and shop strategically, a warehouse club membership can help stretch your budget. But if you rarely visit or dont have space for large packages, the membership fees could outweigh the savings.
For larger families, joining may make sense, but for one or two people, it might be better to waitthat way you don’t waste your money.
This article was produced by Taylor Nimmo for the Scripps News Group station in Cincinnati.