6 Sam's Club Benefits to Take Advantage of, Even Without a Membership

You may not be aware that some Sam's Club privileges are also available to non-members. Whether you aren't ready to commit yourself to a Sam's Club membership at this time or a membership doesn't quite fit in your current budget, take a look at six things you can take advantage of for free.

1. You can visit the Sam's Club Café

In the mood for an all-beef hot dog, a pizza, or frozen yogurt? Have a hankering for a soft pretzel or yogurt cup? You don't have to be a Sam's Club member to purchase tasty treats from the food court. Whether you make a special trip to Sam's Club for a bite to eat or have other business to take care of while you're there, the food court is open to everyone -- members and non-members alike.

How much fun is it to know that you can stop in for a quick meal without emptying your bank account?

2. Buy alcohol

The sale of alcohol is highly regulated, and most states do not allow membership stores to deny non-members the right to purchase alcohol. In fact, stores must offer non-members the same price members enjoy. So, if you're ever at a backyard cookout and the host says they purchased the great wine you're drinking at Sam's Club, you know you can pop in to buy the same vino.

3. Shop online

There are five things you should know about the Sam's Club guest pass:

• It's good for one day only
• The pass allows guests to shop online only
• Guests are required to pay the price stated on the website, plus a 10% service fee
• Purchases cannot be picked up at a store, but will be shipped to you
• To take advantage of the guest pass, log into SamsClub.com, do your online shopping, and create a guest account during online checkout.

If you're on the fence about purchasing a full Sam's Club membership, a one-day pass will give you a better sense of what Sam's Club has to offer and you can decide if membership appeals to you.

4. Buy prescription drugs

Sam's Club is famous for the hundreds of $4 prescriptions it keeps in stock. You don't have to be a member to take advantage of this great deal. Whether you've been taking the same medications for years and want to snag them at a discount or you need to get up to date on your immunizations, you can save money by using the Sam's Club pharmacy.

5. Visit the optical center

Sam's has an interesting policy when it comes to the optical department. You must be a club member to purchase optical products, including contact lenses and eyeglasses. However, non-members are welcome to make an appointment to visit a doctor of optometry. It's a good way to save money on an eye appointment.

6. Buy on Instacart

Truly dislike in-person shopping? You can order the things you need through Instacart and have them delivered the same day, even without a membership! There is a catch, though. Sam's Club sets the prices on the Instacart platform and you may end up paying more than you would pay for the same items in-store.

If the services mentioned above are the primary reason you would spring for a Sam's Club membership, just keep in mind that non-members have the same access. That leaves you with a little more money each year to park in your savings account or to invest.