Made with Our Members and Planet in Mind
Imagine walking into a warehouse filled with bulk bargains, exclusive brands, and the promise of saving hundreds each year. For millions of Americans, Sam’s Club is that destination where families, small businesses, and savvy shoppers stock up and stretch their budgets. But what if you’re not a member?
Maybe you’re curious about the hype, want to try before you buy, or just need to make a one-time bulk purchase for a special event. The question naturally arises: Can you get a 1 day pass at Sam’s Club?
We’ll break down the current status of Sam’s Club 1 day passes, explore all legitimate ways to shop without a membership, and share real-world insights, expert commentary, and actionable tips. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned deal-hunter, you’ll find everything you need to make an informed decision.
For years, Sam’s Club offered a “1 day guest pass” or “invitation to shop” that allowed non-members to experience the club for a single day. Shoppers could print a pass online or request one at the membership desk, gaining full access to the warehouse.
However, purchases made with a guest pass incurred a 10% service fee, which often offset the savings on bulk items.
This policy was designed to let potential members “try before they buy,” but it also created logistical challenges and confusion at checkout. By the early 2020s, Sam’s Club began phasing out the in-club 1 day pass in favor of other trial and promotional options.
Today, the traditional in-person 1 day pass is no longer available. Instead, Sam’s Club has shifted to online guest passes and periodic free trial memberships. These changes reflect broader trends in retail, emphasizing digital experiences, streamlined membership management, and targeted promotional campaigns.
Sam’s Club now offers a guest membership or “invitation to shop” exclusively for online purchases. Here’s how it works
The online guest pass is best for occasional or one-time purchases, especially if the savings outweigh the 10% fee. For frequent shoppers, a full membership quickly becomes more cost-effective.
Sam’s Club periodically offers free trial memberships—typically for 15, 30, or 90 days—to new customers who haven’t been members in the past six months. These trials grant full access to in-club and online shopping, minus a few restrictions (such as upgrading to Plus during the trial).
Key Details
In September 2025, Sam’s Club offered a 30-day free trial for new members, allowing full access to in-club shopping, fuel discounts, and instant savings. This deal was widely shared on deal forums and expired in January 2026.
Sam’s Club frequently runs discounted membership offers for new members, such as 50% off the first year or bonus eGift cards with signup. These deals are often as good as, or better than, a 1 day pass for those considering multiple visits.
Check for current promotions before shopping. You may be able to join for as little as $15–$25 for the first year, making a full membership more attractive than paying the 10% guest fee multiple times.
While most in-club purchases require a membership, there are important exceptions—some mandated by law, others by Sam’s Club policy
Remember, You cannot use Scan & Go, curbside pickup, or self-checkout as a non-member. Most in-club purchases (outside the exceptions above) require a valid membership card.
Sam’s Club partners with Instacart to offer same-day delivery to non-members. Here’s what you need to know
Expert Quote
“Instacart is likely to keep expanding as the most popular same-day online grocery service in areas with Sam’s Club locations. Delivery will only get faster and prices can drop lower in the year ahead.
For warehouse shopping on demand, Sam’s Club + Instacart provide unrivaled selection, convenience, and affordability. It’s worth exploring even as a non-member.” — Charles Scott, ExpertBeacon.
| Feature | Club Membership ($50/year) | Plus Membership ($110/year) |
| In-club & online access | Yes | Yes |
| Members-only pricing | Yes | Yes |
| Free curbside pickup | Yes (orders $50+) | Yes (orders $50+) |
| Free shipping | No | Yes (most items, $50+ order) |
| 2% Sam’s Cash rewards | No | Yes (up to $500/year) |
| Early shopping hours | No | Yes (8 a.m. Mon–Sat) |
| Extra pharmacy/optical savings | No | Yes |
| Add-on members | Up to 8 ($45 each) | Up to 16 ($45 each) |
| Satisfaction guarantee | Yes | Yes |
Club Membership is ideal for occasional or budget-focused shoppers who want access to warehouse pricing and basic perks.
Plus Membership is best for frequent shoppers, large families, or small businesses who benefit from early hours, free shipping, and cash rewards.
Sam’s Club offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee on memberships. If you’re not happy, you can cancel at any time and receive a full refund of your current year’s membership fee. This risk-free policy makes it easy to try Sam’s Club without long-term commitment.
Throughout the year, Sam’s Club runs discounted membership promotions—often around major holidays or back-to-school season. Recent offers include
Always check the official Sam’s Club website or reputable deal forums before joining. These offers can make membership nearly free for the first year.
Certain products and services at Sam’s Club are legally required to be available to the general public, regardless of membership status
Always check your local club and state regulations, as policies may vary by location.
Every Sam’s Club membership includes a free household card for another adult (18+) living at the same address. This person receives their own membership card and full shopping privileges.
If you live with a member, ask to be added as a household or add-on member for full access.
“Sam’s Club has transformed warehouse bulk shopping for millions thanks to rock-bottom pricing across an ever-expanding assortment of categories.
If they maintain impressive member renewal rates thanks to exclusive brands and sharp pricing, while accelerating ecommerce mixing online convenience with in-store immediacy, Sam‘s Club carries incredible momentum for the next 40 years.”
— Charles Scott, ExpertBeacon
“What truly differentiates Sam’s from other clubs is their seamless integration between online and offline. Its in-store technology offers convenience and speed, and its overall in-store experience [are] all aspects that are extremely important to Gen Z ‘digital’ shoppers.”
— Hana Ben-Shabat, Gen Z Planet
| Feature | Sam’s Club | Costco | BJ’s Wholesale |
| 1 Day Pass | No in-club pass; online guest checkout with 10% fee | No guest pass; shop with member or use gift card | No in-club pass; online guest checkout with 20% fee |
| Free Trial | Yes, limited-time offers (15–30 days) | No official free trial | Yes, 1-day online pass, periodic 60-day trials |
| Guest Shopping | Shop with member (member pays) | Shop with member (member pays) | Shop with member (member pays) |
| Pharmacy/Alcohol Access | Yes, for all (by law) | Yes, for all (by law) | Yes, for all (by law) |
| Online Shopping | Guest checkout (10% fee) | Some items, higher prices | Guest checkout (20% fee) |
| Membership Cost | $50 Club / $110 Plus | $65 Gold Star / $130 Executive | $55 Inner Circle / $120 Perks |
| Satisfaction Guarantee | 100% refund anytime | 100% refund anytime | 100% refund anytime |
None of the major warehouse clubs offer a true in-club 1 day pass anymore. All rely on online guest checkout, free trials, or member referrals to let non-members sample the experience.
As of 2025, Sam’s Club no longer offers a traditional in-club 1 day pass. However, you can shop online as a guest with a 10% service fee, use free trial membership offers, or access select services (like pharmacy, alcohol, and the café) without a membership. Occasionally, Sam’s Club runs limited-time free trial or discounted membership promotions for new customers.
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