Aug 27, 2026

6 Items the Frugal Middle Class Should Buy at Sam’s Club Before Fall Price Hikes

Written by Dawn Allcot

Edited by Zuri Anderson

6 Items the Frugal Middle Class Should Buy at Sam’s Club Before Fall Price Hikes

Warehouse stores like Sam’s Club offer year-round savings, but seasonal sales can help you save even more. Autumn’s arrival doesn’t necessarily mean across-the-board price hikes in all categories.

But many items increase in price as the fourth quarter approaches. For example, certain food staples, school supplies and items for your backyard may be on sale for a limited time.

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Here are items frugal families should purchase now to get a jumpstart on fall.

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1. BIC Mechanical Pencil Kit

Price: $8.87, originally $11.87

We’re not sure what it is about mechanical pencils, but kids love them. They tend to write more smoothly than traditional pencils, they always have a perfect fine point, and they’re easy to click for fresh lead if they break. Stock up for back-to-school or re-supply your home office now with this 26-pack of BIC No. 2 mechanical pencils, including two in the Break Resistant style, promising 75% stronger lead. This sale ends August 30, 2026.

2. Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box, 3 Pack

Price: $48.88

If your child’s school doesn’t provide free lunch, one way to save money every day is to pack a lunch from home. Plus, it helps ensure your kids are getting tasty, healthy food that they’ll actually eat.

For larger families, this 3-pack of Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Boxes meets your back-to-school needs for less. Each dishwasher safe bento box includes a removable ice pack and four compartments, perfect for sandwiches, wraps, fresh vegetables, and snacks.

3. Back-to-School Supplies Variety Pack

Price: $12.47

Get a jump on school supply shopping with this handy and affordable kit featuring Sharpie highlighters and permanent markers, Elmer’s Glue Sticks, a Paper Mate Eraser, Paper Mate Mechanical Pencils, Paper Mate and Sharpie brand pens and Expo Dry Erase Markers. It includes nearly everything you need for home, office, or local donations to fill backpacks of kids in need for under $10.

4. Member’s Mark 70,00 BTU Outdoor Pellet Fueled Patio Heater

Price: $234.36

Extend your outdoor entertaining season long into early winter with this Member’s Mark 70,00 BTU Outdoor Pellet Fueled Patio Heater. The pellet-fueled heater eliminates propane costs, delivering double the warmth of traditional propane heaters at roughly 75% cost savings.

The weather-resistant, custom-fitted cover helps ensure years of long life. You’ll save money by staying home and enjoying your backyard patio oasis with family and friends.

5. Tim Hortons K-Cup Coffee Pods

Price: $47.98

Some grocery items were predicted to rise higher than the average inflation rate in 2026, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Price Outlook. Nonalcoholic beverages, including coffee, are one category that’s showing volatility. Although beverages like coffee and tea decreased in price from May 2026 to June 2026, they’re up 2.9% year-over-year. So, grab this 90-count variety pack of Tim Hortons K-cup Coffee Pods for those early mornings.

K-cup pods aren’t the most affordable way to enjoy coffee, but they’re a staple in many families and still less expensive than getting Tim Hortons, Dunkin’ or other coffee outside the home.

6. Patriotic Celebration American Flag Kit, 10 Pieces

Price: $14.91

Get set for Labor Day with this 10-piece American flag kit to decorate your entire yard. Flags are 70% polyester, 30% cotton and 100% made in the USA. The kit includes one garden flag with a stand, a pleated polycotton bunting, a patriotic garland perfect for your deck railing or fence, and six handheld flags to use in a centerpiece display, decorate your yard or share with guests.

Editor’s note: Prices and availability are subject to change.

This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.

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Written by

Dawn Allcot

Edited by

Zuri Anderson