7 reusable bags to help you quit your plastic bag habit

By Kat Silverfield

The saying ‘you old bag’ is about to take on a whole new meaning.

You know all those plastic bags they’ve been handing out for free at supermarkets for years and years? It’s about to stop. Unless, of course, you want to shell out 5p per bag. As of 5 October 2015 the practice of casually distributing plastic bags comes to a close – in large shops with 250 or more employees – and we want you to be ready.

How can you prepare yourself? Purchase a reusable shopping bag that’s durable, convenient and reliable. Here are some suggestions.

This clever Reisenthel Minimax Collapsible Shopping Basket transforms easily from flat to a reinforced shopping basket. This is great if you’re purchasing delicate groceries and don’t want them to get mashed in a loose bag.

£21.00 from HappyBags.co.uk

You can’t beat a jute bag and this one from Westford is only £3.45, plus it’s machine washable and has a comfy cotton handle.

£3.45 from Amazon.co.uk

Is your style a bit more classic? Check out this Land’s End tote, it’s made of tough cotton canvas and has a timeless look.

£25.00 from Debenhams.com

The rush to pack bags at the grocery checkout just got a lot easier. These bags will line up and stand tall (like soldiers) in your cart so you can easily and quickly pack your purchases.

£19.99 at Lakeland.co.uk

If rolling down the high street with your groceries is more your style then try out this Hoppa trolley. With 182 ratings and 4.5 stars you can’t go wrong.

£14.49 on Amazon.co.uk

This Baggu Big bag is light, durable, folds up small enough to fit in the pouch provided and holds about the same amount as two to three plastic bags.

£9.00 at Amazon.co.uk

Or let’s be honest… who doesn’t have this blue Ikea bag at home? Work with what ya got.