We've all had an especially unfortunate encounter at the supermarket at one point or another. It seems to just be a part of life we're forced to accept and, sadly, most of the issues seem to stem from our fellow shoppers just not knowing how to extend a little common courtesy.
My mom actually straight up refuses to go shopping at big chain stores anymore because of how overcrowded with grouchy customers they tend to be. However, I believe that if we could all agree to spread a little more kindness while cruising down the aisles, we'd all be happier!
It really doesn't take much to make the often agitating errand less stressful. After all, we're all just trying to go about our days and get back to our families and loved ones. Plus, there are a few tricks to getting the most out of your grocery list — while paying the least and getting the freshest food!
Take a look at these tips below and remember to SHARE these helpful secrets with your friends before their next trip to the store.
Thumbnail source: Flickr — ranjit / Mark Goebel
1. Remember to have a good meal before you go.
Trust me, I've been there before and ended up with way more than I intended to buy. As a bonus, you'll definitely be in a better mood without hunger pangs weighing you down.
2. Please, don't be the guy who takes up two spaces in the parking lot.
No matter how busy or rushed you feel, there's simply no excuse for infringing on another customer's ability to park their car, too. And really, you just look like a jerk.
3. Think before putting your hands on the cart.
You might want to wipe it down with some hand sanitizer before latching on. They're basically never, ever cleaned by the staff, so you either have to trust all the customers who came before you or come prepared.
4. Try your best not to hog the narrow aisles.
It sometimes feels like those aisles are getting smaller and smaller while our carts get bigger, so it's extra important to make an effort to avoid any collisions.
5. The expensive fish might be telling you lies.
According to studies, one-third of the fish lining your local supermarket shelves may be (hopefully accidentally) mislabeled with fish that looks similar.
6. Make sure to look extra closely at the meat you buy at the deli.
Unlike the prepackaged sandwich meat, deli employees mark the expiration on the slices fresh from the counter — so be sure to examine your choice extra closely in case there's been a mistake.
7. Stores aren't happy when you make your own samples.
Unless there's a smiling face offering you something on a toothpick, it's not OK to start snacking before you hit the checkout line. Even if you intend to buy the item, it's just rude.
8. Your kids might treat the store as a playground, but it's really not.
My mom actually had to train my brother and I at home after one particularly awful trip to the supermarket by making a fake checkout line in our living room. We hated it, but we also never acted up in the aisles again.
9. People can see when you're trying to squeeze more items through the express lane.
Look, we know it says "about" 20 items or less, but waltzing up with twice that amount definitely doesn't fit within the rules, and again, you'll seem like a total jerk.
10. Don't have someone hold your place in line while you continue shopping.
Regardless of how long the line is and how much you think you're saving yourself time, it only frustrates your fellow shoppers when your turn comes and you're still nowhere to be found. It's also pretty embarrassing for the person you abandoned in the line.
11. Think twice before putting your produce directly onto the checkout counter.
Along with all the other groceries and items that are laid out on the conveyer belt, there are some folks who think it's fine to let their baby take a ride or even a small pet. Unless you want to share those germs, bag those fruits and veggies up.
12. Some coupons are made just to fool you.
The "great deal" you spotted in your weekly circular is sometimes just the regular price advertised as less to trick you into thinking you've made a huge score.
13. Remember: cashiers are people, too!
Whether your legit coupon is acting up or they can't find a certain price for one of your items, there is no reason you should ever treat a cashier with any level of cruelty. They're just trying to get through their day like you!
14. Wait until you've finished your transaction to take your phone call.
Talking or texting on your phone the whole time you're checking out is like telling the person behind the counter they don't exist. You don't have to make small talk or become their best friend, but paying attention is important.
15. Be sure to put your cart back in the proper place.
Leaving a cart stranded in the middle of the parking lot is the best way to put a ding in someone else's car. You don't want that kind of bad karma on you, right? The collection area might seem like a long distance from your car, but you can do it.
Was there anything we missed? SHARE with your friends and comment below to let us know!
