Shopping is part of our everyday lives. Sometimes, it’s just something we have to do, which is the case when it comes to stopping by the store to pick up a few groceries on the way home from work. Sometimes, it’s something we do for fun, like when we go out with our girlfriends for an afternoon of shopping at the mall.
No matter why you find yourself stepping foot into a store to spend money, it is important to think about your safety and your financial health. Going out into the world can sometimes be dangerous, even if you’re just picking up a loaf of bread or a new pair of pants for work.
Accidents
One thing you probably don’t think about is the fact that you can experience an accident while you’re out and about doing some shopping. That includes the possibility of getting into a car accident, but it also includes other accidents inside and outside the store.
If you aren’t careful when walking in the parking lot, you could get hit by someone driving a car. It can be especially dangerous if you’re shopping with children, as they can dart in front of oncoming vehicles.
The dangers don’t end once you step foot inside the store. Slip and fall accidents are fairly common, especially in large stores, like Walmart, and can result in serious injuries that can include neck and back injuries, broken bones, and soft tissue tears.
Whether inside or outside the store, it’s always worth your time to walk with caution to prevent an accident.
Illness
Catching a cold or another illness has always been a possibility when going out shopping, but never before have we been more aware of the potential dangers of shopping in close proximity to others thanks to COVID-19. It’s important to stay safe when buying things like groceries during the pandemic, but many of the tips you should follow to prevent catching this illness can help keep you stay safe from other illnesses as well.
A few tips for avoiding colds, the flu, and COVID-19 when shopping include:
- Wiping shopping cart and basket handles
- Using hand sanitizer before and after shopping
- Wearing a mask
- Keeping your distance from other people
- Only touching items you intend on buying
Identity Theft
When you think of identity theft in relation to shopping, you probably think of online shopping. That’s not surprising. It’s easier than ever for hackers to access our information when we purchase items from online stores. However, hackers can also gather your information when you’re out and about shopping in person.
Use the chip on your credit and debit cards, as it’s much harder for hackers to gain access to your number than swiping. Consider using an RFID wallet so you can’t be skimmed, and make sure your cards and personal information are tucked safely in a purse or wallet so they don’t get lost.
Another tip is to use your credit card instead of a debit card. It’s much easier to contest fraudulent charges on a credit card than it is to get back funds that go missing from your bank account.
Unnecessary Purchases
Not only do unnecessary purchases eat away at your budget, they can also strain relationships and make your home uncomfortable. From overflowing closets full of clothes you don’t wear to a home full of furniture that makes your house seem cramped, unnecessary purchases can quickly take over your life.
Making lists can help. At the grocery store, it ensures you don’t buy unnecessary junk food, and it can make sure you avoid buying more toys and clothes than the kids need.
Overspending
Although you are likely to overspend if you purchase things you don’t really need, it’s also possible that you can end up spending more than you should simply because you aren’t shopping smart.
Avoid draining your bank account by knowing how to shop sales. That includes clipping coupons and signing up for email newsletters, but it also means being careful not to be duped by a sale that isn’t really a sale at all. Compare prices online before you head out to the store, and don’t automatically assume you’re getting the best deal just because you’re shopping on Black Friday.
Shopping can be a fun and carefree experience, but it can turn stressful fast. With just a little mindfulness, you can make sure you return home after you go shopping with less guilt and more money in your pocket.
