How To Grocery Shop With A Stroller: 5 Easy Life Saving Hacks!

Navigating the bustling aisles of a grocery store with a baby can be challenging, but add a stroller to the mix, and you’ve got yourself a whole new level of adventure. Groceries are to be hand-picked, which requires much of your attention, and at the same time, your baby needs concentration, too. How to grocery shop with a stroller and keep the baby attended at a time? Many parents consider it impossible. I am a mother of two! Trust me, it is not! 

As a single mom, I have no alternative but to do all the chores, including grocery shopping, by myself. Initially, it was difficult for me too, but over time, I have learned some easy tips and tricks. A lot of parents around my neighborhood want to know how I shop for groceries with a stroller with such ease. Well, this post answers all the queries with a complete how-to, tips, and hacks on how to grocery shop with a stroller. 

Can I Take My Newborn To The Grocery Store? 

Yes, you can take your newborn to the grocery store. However, it is important to take some precautions to keep them safe and comfortable. You must ensure their comfort and safety with a suitable baby carrier and plan your trip during their peaceful times. 

Apart from a baby carrier, you can bring a stroller to keep your hands free while shopping. Pack diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, and a pacifier. It’s always best to be prepared to feed your baby if they get hungry. Finally, one of the most important things is to take breaks if your baby gets fussy. 

Are Strollers Allowed In Grocery Store? 

Yes, strollers are allowed in most grocery stores. However, some stores may have restrictions on the size or type of stroller. If you are unsure about whether strollers are allowed in a particular store, it is always best to ask an employee. 

Can I Use My Stroller As A Shopping Cart? 

Yes, you can use your stroller as a shopping cart, but it is important to check with the store first. Some stores may not allow it, as it can be a safety hazard. If you are allowed to use your stroller as a shopping cart, make sure to empty the basket and place your groceries in it. It will help to prevent the stroller from tipping over. 

Here are some things to keep in mind when using your stroller as a shopping cart: 

• Make sure the stroller is stable and can support the weight of the groceries. 
• Do not overload the stroller. 
• Be careful when turning corners or going over bumps. 
• Empty the basket before folding up the stroller. 

How To Grocery Shop With A Stroller: Prepare For Groceries    

Before you head off to the shop, 

Make a list of what you need. It will save your grocery time instead of aimlessly moving around. The less time you need, the easier the shopping will be. 

Make sure the baby is fed and napped. Can you imagine yourself shopping for groceries while your baby is crying out of hunger? A complete disaster, right? So feed your baby first! Try leaving off to shop after a scheduled nap so your baby will feel comfortable the whole time. Ah well, if you can do that, your baby may enjoy the whole grocery time! 

Pack a few essentials. Carry a few things like the bottle, wipes, diapers, a change of clothes, etc. (Note: You can change the diaper or clothes in the changing room.) A pacifier or a favorite toy may also come in handy. It may comfort the baby on the outing, and you may check into some more items! 

5 Essential Tips On How To Grocery Shop With A Stroller  

1. Don’t take a cart; stuff goes in the stroller storage instead    

Consider the stroller basket as a cart. With this tip, you can get rid of the extra grocery cart! So there is less hassle for you.  Most strollers’ storage baskets are spacious enough for you to pack in the groceries. The only limitation is you can carry groceries up to the weight capacity of the stroller storage, no more. If it is okay for you, check the weight capacity of the storage bin. 

2. Push the stroller, pull the cart    

If you take a cart, I recommend pushing the stroller in front and pulling the cart with another hand, as the best way to grocery shop with a stroller on. Pushing both the stroller and the cart can be challenging. While in front of an aisle, look up for your groceries and push the stroller forward. If you pick any item, you can drop it on the cart placed behind you and pull it with the other hand as you move forward. This technique will let you attend to your baby more and, at the same time, let you pick your favorite items.   

3. Attach the infant seat to the cart 

Remove the infant car seat, attach it to the cart, and then place your baby in the car seat. Put your grocery stuff around the baby. The only limitation here is that the seat might take up considerable space in the cart, so you may not be able to take a cart full of items. But this way, you can avoid dividing attention between the baby and the groceries.

4. Hold a baby carrier 

Put your baby in the baby carrier, and the stroller will serve as the cart. It allows easy movement through the aisles and, at the same time, frees your hands. Drop your goodies in the stroller. Some parents find this method difficult as it adds baby weight to their back and hinders easy movement. If you are comfortable with carrying the baby on your back, you are good to go! 

5. Baby in the cart   

If your stroller folds into a compact form, you can get rid of the stroller itself! How? Put your baby in the cart and start stuffing things around. You can carry the stroller on your shoulder with the strap if there are any. I do not recommend this method since it’s risky.  

How To Choose A Stroller For Grocery Shopping 

Lightweight  

Choose the best lightweight strollers that are easy to maneuver, especially in malls and stores. While grocery shopping, the focus is usually shifted to choosing the product while you may need to push the stroller and the cart. A lightweight umbrella stroller will make things easier for you. 

Compact Shape  

Compact strollers are best for groceries. If you have two babies, instead of side-by-side double strollers, choose the tandem strollers that take up as little space as a single stroller for better maneuvering along the isles. Whereas compact umbrella strollers are best for a single infant in a grocery store.   

Storage Basket  

The storage of a stroller is vital if you are planning to go grocery shopping with a stroller. The storage basket can be your extended cart! If you opt to wear a baby carrier, the stroller’s storage basket is a real blessing for you. Choose a stroller with ample storage space for more convenient shopping. 

How To Grocery Shop With A Stroller: What Are The Alternatives To Strollers?   

Baby Carriers 

Baby carriers can come in handy during grocery times. You can carry your baby and push the cart to stuff your items. It is a better position for older babies, as you can carry them easily on your back. For younger babies, you can take them upfront. It will allow you to shop hands-free for groceries. 

Hammock    

Place a hammock in the shopping cart. Hammocks are convenient to attach to the carts. Note that not all the carts are suitable for hammocks. If your regular go-to grocery store has a cart compatible with hammocks, great for you. It’s a hassle-free method to carry your baby to the grocery shops.      

Shopping Cart Car-Seat Carrier    

I am talking about a hammock-like car seat carrier. This kind of car seat can be an excellent choice for groceries. Hook the seat into the cart. Moreover, this type of car seat does not take up as much space as a regular car seat does. That means more room for your groceries. 

Shopping Cart Cover 

It is a cushioned fabric that fits in a cart. Shopping cart covers are helpful to keep your baby away from grocery stuff. These cart covers are convenient to carry, and many of them come with pouches and toy loops. These covers are machine washable, incredibly comfortable for babies, and fit on most carts. 

Final Words 

Grocery shopping with a stroller doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a bit of planning, organization, and a dash of patience, you can transform your routine errand into a smooth and enjoyable experience. So, the next time you head to the store with your little one in tow, remember the above-mentioned tips, and you’ll have a stress-free stroller shopping experience. 

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