How to get free memberships at Sam’s Club, Costco, BJ’s Warehouse

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Shopping at wholesale clubs can help buyers save big money depending on their needs.

So why not save on the actual Sam’s Club or Costco membership to help keep more money in your pocket?

Sam’s Club

Sam’s Club has a deal through September 11th that will basically get you a 1 year subscription free.

The club offers a 1-year membership for $45. With this offer, you’ll get $45 in instant savings when you spend $45 or more on eligible purchases in one transaction within the first 60 days of membership.

The small print says you must show the offer on your phone when you buy a subscription to get the offer.

If $45 is too much to spend on a membership right now, Sam’s Club has another deal available.

The club offers a 1 year subscription for $14.99, which is a business in itself. The same subscription normally costs $55 per year.

If you purchase the offer before August 31st, you’ll also receive a $10 Sam’s Club e-gift card. After taking into account the gift card, the Sam’s Club membership will cost $4.99.

WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING

This deal is really a deal, but there are a few things to consider before you buy.

• If you purchase this offer, you will be enrolled in Sam’s Club Auto-Renewal and will be charged the regular price when it’s time to renew your membership, unless you cancel before then.
• Membership is not available to existing members.
• The $10 e-gift card will be sent via email instead of being charged to your membership card. Make sure you get it. Contact Sam’s Club or an in-store membership desk if you don’t.

FURTHERMORE

Sam’s Club offers discounts on more than just food, clothing and home goods.

Club locations also offer free health screenings and hearing tests. You’ll also be able to fill up at Sam’s gas stations at lower prices and take advantage of Sam’s Club holiday discounts.

Costco

Costco doesn’t offer free memberships, but there are several ways you can still save at the club.

COSTCO SHOP CARD

If you have a friend with a Costco membership, ask that person to buy you a Costco Shop Card. The card will be mailed to you with a zero balance, but it can be reloaded.

Although you must be a member to purchase a Costco Ship Card, you don’t need a subscription to use it in stores or online.

You can also use a Costco Shop Card at Costco gas station locations.

BUY ONLINE

Non-members can technically shop online at Costco.com.

Some items are priced higher than in stores and some items are marked down for members only.

Non-members will also pay shipping unless a certain amount is ordered.

MEMBER DISCOUNT

If you’ve decided you want to buy your own Costco membership, be careful Groupon. Once or twice a year there will be a Costco deal.

It’s usually something like a $60 one-year membership that comes with a $40 Costco Shop card and a $40 off $250 coupon. If you use both bonuses, you will technically earn $20 with this offer.

Costco last offered the deal in Julyso it may be months before it is offered again.

BJ’s Wholesale Club

If you live in an area with BJ’s Wholesale Clubs, you can also get a free membership.

The company has ended its 3-month free trial subscription.

Now offers a Free 1-day online subscriptionbut can only be used on BJs “Ship It” service.

The company also offers discounted Inner Circle subscriptions in some but not all locations.