The membership pays if the staples do
Track ten staples you actually buy; if club prices save $6+/month, the basic card pays for itself before the gas discount.
Gas alone can justify it
Two-car households frequently cover the fee at the pump. See Gas Rewards.
Bulk perishables are the trap
A gallon of spring mix is compost with a receipt for small households. Bulk the shelf-stable, split the fresh with a friend.
Own-brand tiers punch up
Club house brands test at name-brand quality across staples — the quiet 20% discount inside the discount.