Sam’s Club can be a hit or miss when it comes to what you should and shouldn’t buy. Don’t get me wrong—it can be a treasure trove of bargains, but only some things are a steal. As frugal enthusiasts, we’re all about stretching our dollars and being mindful of our purchases. Here are nine items you might want to skip on your next trip to Sam’s Club.
Single-Use Kitchen Gadgets
While those fancy avocado slicers and pineapple corers may seem convenient, they often end up collecting dust in your kitchen drawers. Save your money and opt for multipurpose tools that serve multiple functions, giving you more bang for your buck. These are usually cheaper at other stores.
Oversized Produce
Sure, those jumbo-sized bags of potatoes or onions might seem like a great deal, but unless you’re running a restaurant or hosting a massive family gathering, chances are you won’t go through them before they start to spoil. Stick to buying fresh produce in smaller quantities to minimize waste and save money in the long run.
Bulk Condiments
While buying in bulk can save you money per ounce, it’s not a bargain if you end up throwing half of it away because it expired before you could finish it. Unless you’re hosting a backyard barbecue for the entire neighborhood, stick to purchasing condiments in regular-sized containers to avoid waste.
Brand-Name Cleaning Supplies
Don’t be fooled by the allure of big-name brands when it comes to household cleaners. Often, the store-brand alternatives are just as effective at a fraction of the cost. Keep an eye out for generic cleaning products that offer comparable quality without breaking the bank.
Giant Packs of Snacks
While it might be tempting to stock up on giant tubs of pretzels or party-sized bags of chips, these snacks can be a double whammy on your wallet and your waistline. Instead, portion out snacks into smaller containers to control serving sizes avoid mindless munching, and stick to just the snacks that are on sale for the best deals.
Bulk Meat
Buying meat in bulk can be a great way to save money, but only if you have the freezer space to store it properly. Before stocking up on that 10-pound pack of chicken breasts, consider whether you have enough room to store it safely without sacrificing quality.
Impulse Buys
Sam’s Club is notorious for its enticing displays and impulse buys at the checkout counter. Before adding that shiny new gadget or novelty item to your cart, ask yourself if it’s something you really need or if it’s just going to clutter up your home. An impulse buy at Sam’s Club could add an extra $20+ to your bill.
Electronics
While Sam’s Club may offer competitive prices on electronics, it’s essential to do your research before making a purchase. Often, you can find better deals online or at specialty stores, especially if you’re willing to wait for sales or promotions.
Paper Goods
While buying toilet paper and paper towels in bulk can save you money in the long run, it’s essential to consider whether you have enough storage space to accommodate the extra inventory. Overspending on paper goods can tie up your budget and valuable storage space that could be used for more essential items.
By skipping these items at Sam’s Club, you can stretch your dollars further and make smarter purchases that align with your values and priorities.
