I would like to know if Costco is better than Sam's club?

There has been more than one thread on that!

You will like the one you have a card for the best.

You will like the one that is closest to you the best.

I have read a few websites comparing the three (Costco, Sam's, BJ's) - the two statements above pretty much summarize their results.

If you find that you are buying a large amount then consider the upgraded membership that comes with cash back. Note that often the cash back only applies to in-store purchases, not online orders.

We had Costco and BJ's in other states, had Sam's when we moved here and were happy to find a close location, and won't likely switch to Costco now.

If you ever buy expensive jewelry, Costco is the only way to go. Their return policy is incredible. You can actually return any jewelry at any time, even 10 years later, and get a full refund. Most jewelry stores, including Sam's Club, will only allow jewelry returns within about 2 weeks and some independent jewelry stores will only offer a store credit, but they will never refund your money.

I also think that Costco offers an extra free year of warranty coverage on many electronic items they sell. I don't think Sam's has the same offer.

Not to worry. The card was simply stating what the offer was, and it is the same offer that anyone can get online or visiting the store.

And, as usual, they do NOTHING for long term loyal customers, right?
I quit using their on-line shipping.
Things were more expensive than in the stores.

Yes, these are some of the reasons why I really like Costco. There are so many others, but you know if we keep on mentioning them, pretty well every single Villager will be shopping at the local store… lol.

Sometimes I miss the days when I had 3 Costcos and 4 Trader Joes within 10 miles of my front door. Very convenient, all very crowded, all very worthwhile. YMMV

Membership is all here on their site. Same as if you go to the store.

https://www.costco.com/join-costco.html

Not exactly. You cannot get a plastic membership card with your photo on it. You can use the digital membership card without a photo, but they will encourage you to get the photo at a store at your convenience. The photo will show up on your plastic card and on your digital membership card, but you can only get the photo taken at the store.

We went there today and new members or renewal, you get a $20 shopping card. If you get their credit card you get an additional $50 and you get a discount when you buy their gas with the card. No fee on the credit card.

I think in a way, they know they are going to fill the place up so no need to offer discounted membership for the first year to get you to try their club. The shopping card was a nice promo.

If you are a Sam’s Club or BJs member, No.

Rarely will you find an unhappy Costco Member.

After the store opens I'd like to take a look around to see if I like it before buying a membership. Would that be possible?

I am sure they will allow you to walk around. Also, if the pharmacy is located in the store, you can always say that you are going there because you do not need a membership to buy prescription drugs. That is a state law.

Sam’s app lets me buy as I go with items in cart…never a line to exit…closest thing to a convenience store and to my knowledge COSTCO doesn’t offer.

Actually you don't need a membership.......................Have a member buy you a Costco gift card, you can shop these without a membership. Decide yourself.