Warehouse clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale Club are known for offering massive savings on bulk items—but what if you want the deals without the commitment? While membership is usually required to shop in these stores, there are a few exceptions and workarounds that allow non-members to access warehouse savings.

Here’s how to legally and strategically shop at warehouse clubs without becoming a member.

1. Use a Gift Card (Costco Only)

Costco allows non-members to shop in-store if they pay with a Costco Shop Card, which is their branded gift card. A current Costco member must purchase the gift card for you, but once you have it, you can use it at any warehouse without being asked for a membership card.

Note: Online shopping with a Costco Shop Card is possible, but non-members are charged a 5% surcharge on most items.

2. Access the Pharmacy Without a Membership

Federal law mandates that access to prescription medications cannot be restricted by membership. This means anyone can use the pharmacy services at Costco, Sam’s Club, or BJ’s—even without a membership.

Just tell the greeter you’re there for the pharmacy and they’ll allow entry. Prescription drug prices at warehouse clubs are often significantly lower than traditional retail chains.

3. Shop BJ’s with a One-Day Pass

BJ’s offers a free one-day pass that lets non-members shop in-store. It does come with a small surcharge (typically 10%) on purchases, but promotional periods often waive this fee entirely.

BJ’s also periodically runs promotions for free 3-month trial memberships, which are ideal for testing the benefits before committing.

4. Order Online Without a Membership

While in-club prices are generally lower, Sam’s Club and BJ’s both allow non-members to shop online:

• Sam’s Club: You can create a guest account and shop online with a 10% non-member surcharge. Sam’s Club Guest Shopping
• BJ’s: Non-members can shop online and select delivery or in-club pickup. Fees or restrictions may apply on certain promotions. Shop BJ’s Online

5. Go with a Member

Perhaps the simplest way to shop without a membership is to tag along with someone who has one. Warehouse clubs allow members to bring a guest, and you can shop together—though only the member can pay at checkout.

This strategy is great if you just want to browse the store, compare prices, or split large quantities.

6. Take Advantage of Open Services

Some warehouse club services don’t require a membership at all:

• Costco Optical (eye exams only—glasses purchases require membership)
  
• Hearing Aid Centers
  
• Food courts (in some regions)
  
• Tire centers (limited to tire installation if you bring your own tires)
  

Check with your local club for specific entry and service restrictions.

Final Thoughts

While full access to warehouse clubs requires a membership, there are still several ways to shop or benefit without paying the annual fee. Whether it’s using a Costco Shop Card, visiting the pharmacy, or scoring a BJ’s One-Day Pass, non-members can still take advantage of warehouse pricing under the right circumstances.

And if you eventually decide to join, consider maximizing your savings by using Fluz. You can earn cashback with a BJ’s gift card, get rewards with a Sam’s Club gift card, or get rewards with a Costco gift card through Fluz—adding even more value to your membership experience.