Sam's Club Plus is a mid-tier membership with warehouse shopping and some extra perks
Sam's Club Plus is the second membership level at Sam's Club warehouses. It costs more than a basic Sam's Club membership but less than the highest tier (Sam's Club Plus Executive). You get access to the warehouse, lower prices on bulk goods, and a few additional benefits like fuel discounts and early shopping hours.
The main reason people choose Plus over the basic membership is the fuel discount at Sam's Club gas stations and the ability to shop an hour before the warehouse opens to regular members. If you shop frequently or buy a lot of gas, those perks can offset the higher membership fee within a few months.
Key Takeaways
- Sam's Club Plus membership gives you warehouse access, bulk pricing, and fuel discounts at Sam's Club gas stations.
- Plus members can shop one hour before the warehouse opens to basic members, which some shoppers find valuable during busy seasons.
- The membership fee varies by location and changes periodically, so the current cost depends on when you join and your region.
- You can use your membership at any Sam's Club warehouse in the United States, and some benefits extend to Sam's Club online shopping.
What comes with a Sam's Club Plus membership
A Plus membership includes everything a basic Sam's Club membership offers — warehouse access, bulk pricing on groceries, household goods, electronics, and other items — plus a few additions. You get a fuel discount at Sam's Club gas stations, usually a few cents per gallon below the regular pump price. You also receive an hour of early shopping time before the warehouse opens to basic members, typically one morning per week.
Some Plus members also receive discounts on services like tire installation, optical exams, and pharmacy services, though these vary by location. Your membership card works at any Sam's Club warehouse nationwide, and you can shop online at samsclub.com using the same membership.
How much Sam's Club Plus costs
The annual membership fee for Sam's Club Plus changes periodically and varies slightly by region. Sam's Club typically raises membership fees every few years. To find the current price in your area, you can visit a Sam's Club warehouse, call the membership desk, or check samsclub.com.
Some people find that the fuel discount alone pays for the membership upgrade if they fill up regularly at Sam's Club gas stations. Others value the early shopping hour more than the fuel savings. The math depends on how often you shop and how much gas you buy.
Who can get a Sam's Club Plus membership
Sam's Club Plus membership is open to anyone 18 or older. You do not need to work in a specific industry or meet any other requirements beyond age. You can sign up in person at any warehouse or online at samsclub.com.
If you already have a basic Sam's Club membership, you can upgrade to Plus by paying the difference between the two membership levels. You do not have to wait for your current membership to expire.
Sam's Club Plus versus other membership tiers
Sam's Club offers three main membership levels. The basic membership is the lowest cost and gives you warehouse access and bulk pricing. Sam's Club Plus adds fuel discounts and early shopping hours. Sam's Club Plus Executive is the highest tier and includes additional benefits like an annual reward certificate (a percentage of your spending back as a credit) and higher discounts on certain services.
Whether Plus makes sense for you depends on how much you value the fuel discount and early shopping. If you rarely buy gas at Sam's Club and do not mind shopping during regular hours, the basic membership may be enough. If you fill up regularly or prefer shopping when the warehouse is less crowded, Plus could be worth the extra cost.
How to use your Sam's Club Plus membership
When you join, you receive a membership card. Bring it with you every time you shop at the warehouse. You can also link your membership to the Sam's Club mobile app and show your digital card at checkout instead of carrying the physical card.
To use your fuel discount, drive to the Sam's Club gas station and present your membership card at the pump or to the attendant. The discount applies automatically. For early shopping, check your local warehouse's schedule — early hours are usually posted on samsclub.com or available by calling the membership desk.
What to know before upgrading to Plus
Before you upgrade, think about whether you will actually use the extra benefits. If you shop at Sam's Club only a few times a year or never buy gas there, the basic membership may be a better value. Some people upgrade expecting to use early shopping hours but find that the regular shopping hours work fine for them.
You can also ask the membership desk about any current promotions. Sam's Club sometimes offers discounted first-year rates or bonus rewards for new Plus members, which can make the upgrade more attractive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Sam's Club Plus membership at other warehouses?
Your membership works at any Sam's Club warehouse in the United States. If you travel or move, you can shop at any location using the same card. Some benefits, like fuel discounts, are available at all Sam's Club gas stations nationwide.
Does my family member need their own Plus membership?
One membership card is issued per person. If multiple people in your household want to shop, each person needs their own membership. However, some households add a second cardholder to one membership for a lower fee — ask the membership desk about this option.
What happens if I do not use the early shopping hours?
Early shopping is optional. If you do not use it, you can still shop during regular warehouse hours. You are not required to use every benefit to keep your membership active.
Can I cancel my Plus membership if I change my mind?
Yes. Sam's Club allows you to downgrade to a basic membership or cancel entirely. If you cancel within a certain timeframe, you may receive a refund of the membership fee — ask the membership desk about the current refund policy.
Do online purchases count toward any rewards?
If you have a Sam's Club Plus Executive membership, your online purchases count toward the annual reward certificate. With a basic or Plus membership, online shopping does not earn rewards, though you still receive the bulk pricing available to all members.