If you’re a new mom, you know that grocery shopping can be a challenging task. Not only do you have to carry a lot of groceries, but you also have to worry about how to transport your baby safely and comfortably.
One solution is to take advantage of the latest transportation technology: strollers. To grocery shop with a stroller, you must make a list of items to buy, choose the right stroller, get organized with groceries and your child, and have fun.
Wait, there are some more. To be honest, grocery shopping with a stroller can be a bit difficult. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this comprehensive guide about how to grocery shop with a stroller, we’ll show you everything you need to know in order to successfully shop for groceries while carrying your little one in a stroller.
It’s important to note that all stores allow the purchase of groceries with a stroller. This means that you can go to any Walmart, Target, or other store and buy your groceries with a stroller.
How to grocery shop with a stroller – Experts guide
I know shopping for groceries can be a challenge, especially when you don’t have anyone on the lookout for your baby. On the other hand, the moment you try to manage a groceries cart in one hand and a stroller in another hand, it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. It is very much difficult to manage both the cart and stroller at a time.
To minimize your stress, here is our step-by-step expert’s guide:
1. Hook your cart with the stroller
The easy way to shop for groceries with a stroller is by hooking your cart with the stroller. Make sure that the front wheel of your cart is lined up in between the two bars on the side of the stroller.
Then use your arms to hold onto either side of the frame while simultaneously pushing down on both pedals once. This should position your cart securely next to your stroller. Remember, while pushing the stroller, never lean too much on the cart itself. It is important to maintain balance.
2. Push the Stroller and Carry the Cart
You can follow another method which is pushing the stroller with one hand and pulling the cart with the other. Simply place your left hand on the back of the stroller and use your right arm to help you push. You will need to keep a close eye on the width of the aisle and make sure that your cart doesn’t get stuck behind any other items.
The downside is that this method is tiring, and you may need to switch hands a few times. I recommend, Whichever method you choose, make sure that you are comfortable with it before starting to shop. The best way to learn is by trying out different techniques until you find one that works for you.
3. Use your stroller only
If you can’t manage to hook your cart or push it, simply use your stroller. Every stroller has different features, so find out which one suits your needs the best. For example, some strollers have a parent tray in the back that you can use to hold groceries while you walk.
Other strollers come equipped with an extra-large storage basket under the seat that is perfect for carrying diapers and baby clothes. You can use that space while shopping instead of a cart. But yes, I know this space is not enough when you need to shop a lot.
Every stroller basket has its own limit that varies from one model to another, but it’s usually around 30-33 pounds. Try to keep the weight evenly distributed on both wheels so that the stroller doesn’t skid and falls over.
For example, if you see that one of the wheels is significantly heavier, shift some of the items to balance it out. The more weight that’s put on the wheels, the less capable the stroller will be in moving around quickly and easily.
4. Use a cart only
Every store offers the option to rent a cart when you shop. Simply go up to the counter and ask for assistance. Most rental carts are big enough to place the baby seat inside its frame and can even fit a large bag of groceries. Simply. Detach the seat from your stroller and put it in the cart.
You can also use this option if you have a large stroller that does not fit well inside an aisle. Just, Ensure the child is safely seated in the cart before starting to shop. Push the cart slowly and carefully through the aisles and make sure not to bump into any obstacles.
How to grocery shop with twins- Should I take side by side stroller or a tandem stroller?
If you are a mother of twins, then the struggles are only beginning. Strollers are not the only thing you need to manage, but also your own energy and twin babies. When it comes to which is better between side-by-side trollers and tandem strollers, my vote goes for a tandem stroller.
While it’s possible to grocery shop with twins using a side-by-side stroller, it can be quite challenging and tiring. A tandem stroller is often easier to handle. But this is not the only reason why I am picking a tandem stroller.
The main reason here is the width of the pram of a stroller. Side-by-side strollers are not suitable for grocery shopping because of the seat placement. Side-by-side seats mean that the children are sitting next to each other. Just imagine how much space this will take up in a crowded grocery store.
On the other hand, tandem strollers come with two seats that are separated by a gap. This makes it much easier to get groceries for both children at the same time without any fighting or to struggle over space.
How to Keep Your Baby Entertained While You Shopping
I know how it feels to be in a shopping mall or supermarket with one screaming baby. Fortunately, there are many things you can do while grocery shopping that will keep your baby entertained at the same time.
One fun way of having babies co-operate during shopping is by providing them with different types of toys that can be played with during the shopping trip. You can give them the simple tasks of counting or show them hanging toys or dolls that can be interacted with.
Let them play with interactive apps. Nowadays, our child gets happy enough if we let them play with our mobile. Isn’t it?
Another way to entertain your twins is by singing and dancing to their favorite songs. This will help keep your little kid calm and distracted from being bored. And if there is anything that will distract a baby from being fussy, it’s food and drink. Being a mom, you must know what makes your babies happy.
Are there any alternatives to strollers?
We are not finished yet. There are also alternatives to using a stroller when grocery shopping. Let’s take a look at a few of them:
Shopping cart car-seat Carrier
Are you familiar with a seat carrier? It’s like a carrier for babies that you strap them into. It’s like having your own little seat in the cart.
One downside of this option is that it takes up more space. Another downside is that it’s not suitable for very long trips, as your baby will get tired quickly if they are strapped in all day long.
Baby Carriers
This one is similar to the one before, but in this case, you will have to wear a baby carrier.
The benefit of this option is that you don’t have to take up as much space in the cart, and it’s also very comfortable for both you and your baby.
Hip Seat Carrier
As the name suggests, this carrier is made to be worn on your hips. But wait, this is specifically for a certain age ( 6 months to 3 years). This is cost-effective as well.
Conclusion
With all the information above, you are now ready to grocery shop with your baby. Keep in mind that when you’re grocery shopping with a stroller, make sure it fits your baby. Make use of carts and increase your safety as well as convenience.
Do you have any tips on how to grocery shop with a stroller? Share them down below in the comments.
