I had a Costco membership years ago. It was similar to Sam's club so I dropped the Costco and kept Sam's because there is one within driving distance of my parents in Maine so I could use it there. I like it for the cheaper gas and deals I find. I used to send stuff to relatives but send much less frequently since even with the plus membership you have to spend over $50 to get free shipping (better to go with Walmart+ or Amazon Prime for the free shipping). They say the Plus is guaranteed to save you more than it costs. IDK if it does any more- they used to just count savings and now count what shipping would be plus instant savings (which you can get without Plus) and any other sale discounts (which you can also get without Plus). I like being able to go in early before the crowds come at the regular opening and they do have a discount drug list for Plus members which might be cheaper than your insurance or on something nor covered by insurance. My friend has a Costco membership so if I want something I can ask her to get it for me- but most stuff is the same although some stuff is cheaper one place or the other.