I have both Costco and Sam's. We have been Costco members for 10+ years. It's a great store but it's just so, so, so busy that I have begun to dread going. I jumped on the Sam's deal this past spring...between a GC that Sam's was offering, an Amex offer and some free items, the membership was more than free. I thought it would be fun to try and to compare the two. What I have discovered:
* Sam's is so much quieter, calmer and an overall, less stressful shopping experience. I get that this is because Costco is far more popular but I don't care. I have more sanity and less dread as I make my way to Sam's.
* I absolutely LOVE the Sam's scan & go app. It's so simple, and makes shopping and (not) checking out so easy.
* Yes, there are items I can only find at Costco and not at Sam's. However, I can deal with picking them up at Costco once a month and stocking up.
* I do get an essentially free Costco membership too. I am executive and easily get a check back each year that covers my membership plus some.
* No, Sam's isn't cool. Costco is cool. Everyone feels good about shopping at Costco but no one feels good about shopping at Sam's...let's be honest, it's Walmart in bulk sizing, and anyone who is anyone hates Walmart...right?? The area I live in, outside Denver, is hippy, crunchy, granola, cool, etc. This is not your Walmart loving people so Sam's is looked down upon here and Costco us uber great. However, I've found Sam's has many of the same products as Costco at the same prices (or better). If I am not up for the chaotic mess that is Costco, Sam's works just fine.
* Did I mention Sam's sells Disney GC's at a discount! I order online for best pricing!