Money Monday on NNJ Family: Save Big at Discount Retailers

Welcome to the Money Monday!

This week, we are checking out the deals available at local super discount club stores — Costco, B.J.'s and  more. Are you maximizing your discounts at these retailers?

I've been a member of both major local discounters and have to say that I am partial to Costco. I find the deals are better overall and the layout of the store is more appealing to me at Costco. But I have friends who are die-hard B.J.'s fans and won't shop anywhere else.

At Costco, the best way to maximize your savings is to take advantage of two programs they offer. The first is to clip your coupons before you head out to the store.

About once a month, Costco mails a packet of coupons to members. If you know your pricing, these can offer significant discounts on everyday items. Paper towels, tissues, common over the counter medications and beauty products are some of the best coupons offered in each packet. If you are in the market for bigger items like furniture or electronics, there are often coupons in the rear of the packet for those items. You may have to be patient but those mega-deals do come around.

The second biggest tip is applying for the Costco AMEX card. One, it provides convenience since it is the only credit card they take at the register. Two, if you use your card for other purchases outside of Costco you accrue points that turn into dollars.

Once a year, Costco AMEX card holders receive a check in the mail that they can use to purchase items at Costco OR can cash in at Customer Service and walk away with cash in hand. They used to issue checks twice a year but no longer do that -- it's just one check annually.

We try to charge big ticket items like vacations, furniture and electronics purchases, etc. on the Costco AMEX. Last time we received a check for more than $400 -- just for making purchases we would have made anyway. In my book, that beats random points that accrue on other credit cards that you have to keep track of -- a check that comes in my name once a year is definitely a cash-back bonus.

According to SmartMoney.com, the best deals at warehouse discount stores are on the following items:

Alcohol — premium top-shelf liquor is the best bargain you'll find in their liquor outlets

Eggs, Milk and Butter — according to Smart Money, prices are generally 20% lower at discount stores than at neighborhood supermarkets, including the big chain markets like Stop & Shop and ShopRite

Meat — Top quality meats that you would purchase from the butcher are readily available at Costco, B.J.'s and Sam's for a significant savings, according to Smart Money

Years ago, I generally found great deals on diapers and wipes at both Costco and B.J.'s — I actually joined B.J.'s when Costco stopped carrying Pampers which was the only brand I was using. Baby formula was also generally cheaper than at the supermarket.

Do you have tips for making the most of deals at local discount clubs? Share your thoughts in the comments!

This Money Monday originally ran in November 2011 on NNJ Family — check the site for the latest money saving tips!