I used to do a lot of shopping at BJ’s but started to feel like I was walking out with only a few things and spending way too much. I was also was walking out with clothes or shoes we really didn’t need. So I didn’t renew my membership for several years. I got a card in the mail with an offer to renew for $10 so I gave it a try. My first visit back a wave of nostalgia swept over me and it felt good to be back again. However, this time I decided I was going to be in control. I downloaded the BJ’s app and went straight to the coupon section. I clip what I need or may want, check the prices of how much they are before using the coupon to see if its worth it. I stick to a very small list of things I get only from there and whatever I have a clipped coupon for. It started going well again.
If you do not have time to clip your coupons beforehand and go to the store for specific things you can use the app a different way to see if a coupon is available without scrolling through their long list. On the app right at the top is the search bar, click the bar code picture to right and simply scan the bar code of the product you are buying and the app will tell you if there is an available coupon!
Shortly after joining I was given another offer to upgrade to my membership to start earning cashback. I have never had the upgraded membership before, but since I had only spent $10 this far, and it would be an additional $20 to do this, I went for it. It was still cheaper then the $50 renewal fee I would have originally paid. It gives you a percent back for what you spend and when you hit $10 you can redeem your reward.
Another thing that has controlled my spending was ordering my groceries online and doing a store pick up. This way I knew exactly what my total was before checking out and I could modify if needed. All the coupons will still come off and it’s a free service! Might I mention a huge time saver??!
If you have been on the fence too, when you receive the promotion to join back at a low rate, I say go for it! Give it a try and really be strict on what you buy there!