You Paid for These Sam's Club Benefits. Are You Taking Advantage of Them?

Life is busy, and unless you have time to sit down and read the fine print, it's easy to miss out on the kind of details that would make things easier while leaving a little extra money in your checking account. So, sit back, enjoy a cup of something warm, and consider the ways Sam's Club will have your back.

1. You could be ordering ahead

There are those who do not enjoy shopping, and others who don't mind a trip to the store but have to fight the urge to make impulse buys. If either of those descriptions applies to you, why not take Sam's Club up on its offer to do your shopping for you? Here's how you do it:

• Grab your shopping list and log in to SamsClub.com or open the Sam's Club app.
• Shop for the items you need. Anything marked "pick up in club" is eligible.
• Once you're ready, pay for your purchases.
• Head to your Sam's Club and park in a spot marked "Curbside Pickup."
• Check in via text, email, or app notification.
• A Sam's Club employee will bring your order out and load it into your vehicle.

Whether the service is free to you because you're a Plus member or you pay $4 as a regular Club member, imagine the time and hassle you'll save.

2. You could beat the crowds

Of course, there are also those who don't mind shopping but do not enjoy crowds. If you're lucky enough to be a Plus member, you're allowed into the store an hour or two before regular Club members. That gives you plenty of time to look around without having to deal with the dreaded cart traffic jam.

3. You could pay less for prescription drugs

There's no denying that medical costs are out of control. So why pay more for prescription medications than you absolutely must? All Sam's Club members have access to Rx Savings and a long list of generic medications for $4. In addition, Sam's Club Plus members can pick up some of the most common prescription medications for free.

4. You could stop playing games with auto dealers

If you'd rather have a root canal than wander around a car lot and deal with pushy salespeople, buying a car through Sam's Club auto website may be just what you're looking for. The search engine makes it easy to look for the new or used car you're most interested in. Once you narrow down your search criteria, you'll be presented with a list of available vehicles for sale.

Once you select a car, the site provides you with an analysis comparing MSRP and TrueCar Market Average prices. That way, you'll know if the deal you're offered is worth your time.

5. You could save real money with gift cards

It's easy to overlook the values to be found in gift cards. Whether it's a card for discounted Omaha Steaks or Walt Disney World souvenirs, the sheer variety of cards available at any given time increases the odds that you'll find one you can use.

Sam's Club can't be all things to all people, but it does allow savvy shoppers to save money. So, whether you're building an emergency fund or need to pay for a wedding, you're one step closer to your goal.