This Simple Shopping Bag Hack Helps You Remember It Every Time

We’ve all been there: you load up your shopping cart with a week’s worth of groceries only to discover that you left your reusable bag at home. From there, you only have a few options. Place your loose ingredients in the trunk of your car, deal with flimsy paper bags, or shell out some extra cash for even more reusable bags that’ll end up collecting dust in your closet. It ultimately defeats the purpose of sustainability that prompted you to buy the bags in the first place.

There are so many solutions out there that supposedly cause you to remember your totes before you head to the supermarket. But do any of them actually work? Not all of us have a car to store extra bags. And let’s be real—we always forget to grab them even when they’re hanging next to the front door.

But there’s finally a hack that actually works. And not only is it simple, but it’s also affordable! You might even have this common tool lying around your house already.

It’s a… *drumroll*…carabiner! You know those small metal clips used for rock climbing? They’re typically sold near the register of your local hardware store for just a few cents. This seriously versatile tool is the ultimate way to store your shopping bag.

But how does it work? With just a few quick folds and your handy dandy carabiner, your bag will be small enough to attach to your keys, purse, or even your belt loop!

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Fold your bag lengthwise.

Step 2: Fold crosswise in thirds.

Step 3: Use the straps to secure.

Step 4: Attach the carabiner to the strap.

Once you get the hang of it, any bag can be folded in a few seconds. And we promise you’ll never show up to the supermarket empty handed again.

Still too much work for you? Thankfully, you can buy bags with built in carabiners that make the job even easier. We’ve rounded up some of our favorites below:

What’s your favorite technique to remember your reusable shopping bag? Let us know in the comments!