The $30 Kmart buy that will change the way you grocery shop

By Jo Abi|

Not all shopping trolleys are created equal. We all live in fear of that shopping trolley with the dodgy wheel.

For some reason we start putting things in it instead of going back and swapping it out for one with four properly functioning wheels, hoping it will magically start rolling properly.

It never does. Even if we do land one with functioning wheels, they often have rubbish in them or seem a bit dirty. Sometimes we don't have much of a choice because there aren't many trolleys left, which can happen during peak grocery shopping times.

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grocery shopping habits trolleys jo abi 9honey consumer reporter
Not all shopping trolleys are created equal. (9honey/Jo Abi)

What if, we took the power back? What if we came to the supermarket with our own trolley or grocery-transportation device.

Here are four alternatives to standard supermarket shopping trolleys, including a bargain buy from Kmart that will change the way you grocery shop.

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Kmart's $30 portable shopping bag

There are portable shopping bags available that are hybrids of shopping bags and shopping trolleys. 

I found a great option for these at Kmart for just $30 but there are a few different versions of these available.

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I found a great option for these at Kmart for just $30. (Kmart)

Pros

They fit a decent amount of groceries.

You have the option to use them as a trolley via the large handle or pick it up via the two handles.

You can secure them using the zip top and they are easy to transport.

Cons

I couldn't find many colour and style options for these.

'Nonna trolleys'

I have seen this, in the form of what I have dubbed 'Nonna trolleys' because it was grandmothers who started the trend because they are older and so very wise and don't let anything come in the way of cooking their families a delicious lunch.

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These are affordable and convenient alternatives to supermarket trolleys. (Victoria's Basement/Amazon)

What began as something mostly grandmothers used developed into more modern and fashionable versions and it's one of the more affordable options.

More basic versions of them are available for around $30 at The Reject Shop. Or you can splash out for a fancier model at around $40 at BCF or Victoria's Basement.

Then there is the VOUNOT folding shopping trolley is available on Amazon for $80.

The VOUNOT is a more stylish design that folds easily. (Amazon)

Pros

Small and easy to manage.

Comes in a range of fun colours.

Affordable.

You can wheel them right inside your home.

No assembly required.

Cons

They only fit a small amount of groceries but suit those who prefer frequent trips for food.

SlideACart

SlideACart is a snazzy alternative to a standard shopping trolley and one customers can purchase, assemble, and leave in their boots for their weekly grocery shopping trips.

SlideACart
I discovered SlideACart when my son Giovanni started accordion lessons. (SlideACart)

Assembly is a bit fiddly but once it is put together, the design made a lot of sense.

Pros

The cart section easily slides into your car boot, with no shopping bags required.

It can be adjusted to suit different heights.

You can carry the basket right into your kitchen or put it back together and roll it straight in.

Investing in an Aussie innovation.

They fit a week's worth of groceries easily.

The section under the cart is ideal for larger grocery items.

Cons

It's an investment at a cost of $365, but you do get free delivery.

Bunnings $60 foldable shopping cart

Then there are shopping carts, which are similar to those used to ferry toddlers and their toys around beach-side locations.

These shopping carts come in a range of colours and designs.

The one I like the most is from Bunnings and costs $63.64. It's the Viviendo 65L foldable cart with wheels.

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These shopping carts fit come in a range of colours and designs. (Bunnings)

Pros

They come in four colours, green, pink, purple and white.

Easy to fold and unfold.

Great wheel design.

You can place larger items on top of the main section.

Cons

Suitable for smaller shops.

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