Grocery shopping is a necessary task.
But, everyone has opinions on what products to buy and how to transport them home.
But it’s not exactly clear about what you can and cannot bring into the grocery store.
So, Can You Take a Backpack into a Grocery Store?
You can bring a backpack to a grocery store. However, what will happen next depends on the policies of the particular store and country. Some stores have designed a place where shoppers can leave their bag safely and take it after shopping. Others only want to look at what’s inside at the checkout and allow you to go with it inside.
Now, even where backpacks are accepted, bringing them into the store may not be a good choice. They tend to whack people on the face and in crowded places. And since they are behind you, it’s easy for someone to steal.
If you insist on carrying a backpack, think of holding it in your hand like carrying your briefcase. Take it off, hold it in the subway, or rest it on your lap or the floor.
See Also: Is It Weird to Go to The Grocery Store Every Day?
Why Are Backpacks Not Allowed in Some Stores?
We’ve already mentioned that backpacks can be annoying to other people in the store.
Imagine being knocked over by someone’s backpack on the face while trying to reach out for something. Annoying right?
But aside from that, some stores restrict shopping with backpacks to minimize theft.
Previously, some kids used to bring backpacks to the store and shoplift while pretending to purchase something.
But, many stores have upgraded their security.
There are several cameras in the store watching everyone. For this reason, many don’t feel the need to confiscate your backpack.
What Other Things Should You NOT Bring While Grocery Shopping?
As a pandemic preventive measure, we had to pay attention to what we touch, do, or who we are standing near.
But, with so much on your mind, you need to reduce distractions, especially when shopping for groceries.
Here are some things you shouldn’t carry to the grocery store.
1. Kids
Kids can be the worst distraction, even the most well-behaved.
They’re curious and cannot keep their hands to themselves.
So you will find them touching food items, other shoppers, shelves, etc.
Additionally, they won’t always remember to social distance or wear their mask at all times.
If your kids are pretty young, it’s best to leave them home.
But if they are old to listen when you tell them not to touch things, you can bring them.
But even then, it is still a risk.
Because when they touch things around them and proceed to touch their face without cleaning their hands, they might introduce a virus to themselves.
2. Gloves
Many of us think it’s hygienic to wear gloves when grocery shopping.
But, they don’t necessarily prevent the spread of bacteria.
You may feel safe touching various items in the store with your gloves on.
However, doing that only spreads the bacteria to the next thing you touch, which could be your phone, purse, face, or another product in the store.
3. Cash
Even in the pre-pandemic era, handling cash wasn’t advised.
Cash carries bacteria that could cause severe infections like pneumonia.
Germs and pathogens easily spread through money.
That’s because paper bills are hard to disinfect.
That is why many people are moving towards cashless payment.
Using your card will reduce one opportunity to spread germs. But whichever form of payment you choose, ensure that you wash your hands thoroughly after paying.
4. Reusable Bags
Previously, carrying a tote bag or a bulky purse to the grocery was commendable.
Due to this, it’s wise just to use a disposable bag from the store.
Reusable bags are generally environmentally friendly. But some stores may not allow you to bring them to reduce contamination.
Even if you’re not planning on using your bag to hold your groceries, it’s best to avoid carrying anything that could prevent you from going in and out of the store while touching as little as you can.
5. Your Smartphone
We constantly reach out to our phones to check a text we’ve received, answer a call, or check the grocery list.
However, when we touch things at the store and touch our phones, we are spreading bacteria and viruses.
Besides that, the smartphone can be a distraction.
As you constantly check it, you can lose focus on what you are doing, meaning you won’t move as quickly and efficiently as you’d.
Additionally, since we are still social distancing, checking your phone in the grocery will not allow you to social distance.
If you still insist on carrying your smartphone to the grocery, ensure you keep it tucked and only pick it up once you have finished shopping and disinfected your hands.
Four Other Methods Of Transporting Groceries Home
1. Wicker Baskets
If you want to go completely green, here is a solution.
The sturdy material is plant-based which makes it durable and biodegradable.
However you will need to wash them occasionally.
You can also use salt to clean them.
2. Cardboard Boxes
These are great when taken from grocery stores.
They are usually sold at low cost at the grocery store, but you can buy them from the local produce department or bring yours from home.
But, they aren’t as strong as wicker baskets. So you have to limit your load.
3. Milk Crates
Although these are plastic made, they are highly durable.
Many people don’t shop with them. But you can make them your custom builder.
4. Snap Baskets
These are just an advancement in the traditional shopping basket.
They are collapsible box bags with soft sides and a hard bottom.
Final Thoughts
You can carry your backpack to the grocery store.
Many places do not care as long as you aren’t planning to steal things.
Some places even offer discounts for bringing in your bag. However, it depends on the store.