It’s been a challenging, chaotic, and wholly unprecedented time. Over the past year, we’ve faced everything from the COVID-19 pandemic and the cultural phenomenon of “Tiger King” to revelations about UFOs from the Pentagon. Honestly, the last 365 days have left many of us feeling utterly disoriented. Amidst all this madness, one of the most surprising aspects has been our online shopping behavior. As we navigated lockdowns, our buying habits took some wild turns, going beyond the usual essentials like hand sanitizer and toilet paper. An informal survey from our team revealed some truly bizarre purchases.
Here are some of the most memorable quarantine buys:
- Hydroponic Farm Stand
Self-watering and self-fertilizing, this innovative Lettuce Grow farm stand allowed many to take a stab at self-sufficiency. As Nina shared, it was her way of preparing for the apocalypse. - A Heating Pad Vest
Feeling chilly and achy? A portable heating pad vest may be just the solution. With various heat settings and an auto-shutoff feature, it provides warmth without the hassle of cords. - A New Dog
While not unusual, many chose to adopt pets during the pandemic. A furry companion can bring much-needed comfort during times of isolation. - A Harmonica
Looking for a new pastime? Why not pick up a harmonica? With no lessons required, this could either become a delightful hobby or a source of household chaos. - A Trampoline
To keep kids entertained while schools were closed, many parents opted for trampolines. They provided fun, albeit with a risk of injury. - Excessive Peanut Butter
Food purchases soared during the pandemic, with some going a bit overboard. For instance, Mark’s dad mistakenly ordered 24 jars of peanut butter, leading to a unique Christmas gift for the family. - A Rainbow Christmas Tree
One holiday purchase turned out to be a letdown. Brittany expected a vibrant tree but received a mere 18-inch colorless version instead. - Medical Marijuana
For some, the stresses of quarantine led to seeking relief through medical marijuana. “I got a card for it because the anxiety was overwhelming,” shared Jenna. - Bulk Bubble Gum
Nostalgia played a role in purchases too. After reminiscing about childhood sweets, Rita’s husband bought four large tubs of Bazooka bubble gum. - A Goose Lamp
This quirky lamp stood out as one of the most unusual items surveyed. While not for everyone, it added a unique touch to home decor.
Beyond these quirky buys, many also invested in practical items like home renovation tools and gardening supplies. As David put it, he’s turned into a “one-man landscaping business.” Technology sales also surged, with many upgrading devices to adapt to a more digital lifestyle.
A study from Ibotta, a cash-back app, revealed a significant increase in food and beverage sales during this period, with spirits up by 33% and bakery items by 17%.
What unusual item did you find yourself purchasing during quarantine? For more insights, check out this other blog post for tips on similar topics.
Summary
The pandemic prompted many to make unexpected purchases, from hydroponic farming systems to quirky decorative items. With more time spent at home, people sought comfort and entertainment in unique ways. Alongside practical purchases, the trend toward online shopping revealed a fascinating glimpse into our coping mechanisms during a challenging time.