$90 Pepper Shaker? My Trip To Sam's Club

How a Bottle of Black Pepper at Sam’s Club Ended Up Costing Me $90

If you’ve ever stepped foot inside Sam’s Club, you know it’s nearly impossible to walk out with only what you came for. My latest trip is proof: I went in needing just one thing, black pepper, and walked out nearly $90 lighter.

The Plan: Just Pepper

It all started with a simple grocery list. In fact, it wasn’t even a list; it was one word: pepper. I was out, and Sam’s was on my way home. The plan was quick and painless: run in, grab the pepper, and leave.

The Reality: The Sam’s Club Effect

But here’s the thing about Sam’s Club: the moment you walk through those oversized doors, your brain forgets minimalism. First, I noticed the seasonal aisle filled with cozy throw blankets. Then I remembered we were running low on paper towels. Next, I spotted a snack variety pack that “would be great for the grandkids.” And from there, it snowballed.

Before long, my cart had transformed into a bulk-buy bonanza:

• A multi-pack of Coconut water (because hydration is essential)

• A giant box of protein bars (for the workouts I plan to start)

• A 2-pack of ground turkey for a new seasonal recipe, Stovetop Stuffed Peppers

• A tub of mixed nuts the size of a small drum

• And, at the bottom of it all, the original star of the trip: pepper

The Receipt Shock

When I finally made it to the checkout, the cashier rang everything up, and the screen flashed: $90.47. That’s right—ninety dollars for a shopping trip that was supposed to cost under nine.

The Lesson Learned

This little shopping adventure taught me a valuable lesson: Sam’s Club isn’t just a store, it’s a temptation trap. You walk in for one item and leave with a carload. While buying in bulk does save money in the long run, it’s easy to overspend when you convince yourself that everything is a “good deal.”

Next time I run out of pepper, maybe I’ll just ask my neighbor to lend me some. At least it won’t come with a $90 price tag.

Keep Cooking and Keep Doing Things That Make Cent$!! --Chef Teri, Your Frugal Foodie

HERE IS MY FAVORITE RECIPE OF THE DAY!