It’s been a challenging and utterly bizarre year. From the COVID-19 pandemic to the sensationalism of shows like “Tiger King” and the Pentagon’s acknowledgment of potential UFOs, the past year has felt like a whirlwind of confusion. Honestly, it’s been hard to find our bearings. One of the most peculiar aspects of 2020 and the early months of 2021 has been our online shopping habits. As life ground to a halt, many of us turned to online shopping, resulting in some rather questionable choices.
A casual poll conducted by our team uncovered the most eccentric items people bought during lockdown. Here’s a look at some of the strangest quarantine buys:
- Hydroponic Garden
Self-watering and self-fertilizing, this hydroponic garden became a go-to for many trying to navigate the strange times. “I wanted to be self-sufficient and go off-the-grid,” said Jenna, who shared her experience with us. - Wearable Heating Pad
For those chilly days or aching muscles, a portable heating pad vest became a popular item. With various heat settings and an auto-shutoff feature, it allows you to move freely around the house without hassle. - A New Dog
While adopting a dog might not be outlandish, it was a common trend. In a time of isolation, many found comfort in the companionship of pets. - Harmonica
Looking for a new pastime? A harmonica might fit the bill—though it may also test your partner’s patience. No lessons, no experience, and plenty of potential for chaos. - Trampoline
With schools and parks closed, parents scrambled to find ways to entertain their kids, leading to a surge in trampoline purchases. - Bulk Peanut Butter
Food purchases surged during the pandemic, with some individuals going to extremes. “My dad accidentally ordered 24 jars of peanut butter,” shared Lisa. The result? A peanut butter-themed Christmas for the family. - Rainbow Christmas Tree
In the spirit of the holidays during lockdown, one individual ordered a colorful tree, only to receive a tiny, drab version instead. - Medical Marijuana
As stress and anxiety levels skyrocketed, some turned to medical marijuana for relief. “I got a doctor’s note so I could get a medical weed card,” said Mia, echoing the sentiments of many during this trying time. - Bulk Bubble Gum
Nostalgia often reigns supreme in tough times. After a night of reminiscing about childhood treats, one husband ended up ordering four tubs of Bazooka bubble gum. - Goose Lamp
While not the most common purchase, this quirky giant goose lamp stood out as a favorite among those surveyed. Not into geese? There are also duck, mouse, and even mushroom lamps available.
Of course, many people made practical purchases as well, like tools for home renovations or gardening supplies. David, for instance, transformed into a “one-man landscaping business,” and board games and puzzles saw a surge in popularity. Technology usage also skyrocketed, with a notable rise in sales of tablets, cameras, and headphones.
A study by Ibotta revealed significant increases in food and beverage purchases during this period: spirits were up by 33%, bakery items rose by 17%, and frozen food and wine sales also increased by 12% compared to the previous year.
What was your most outlandish quarantine purchase? If you want to dive deeper into topics around home insemination, check out one of our other blog posts for more insights. Additionally, if you’re looking for more authoritative information, visit the CDC’s excellent resource on pregnancy.
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Summary:
The pandemic prompted a surge in unusual online shopping habits, leading to some quirky purchases. From hydroponic gardens and wearable heating pads to bulk peanut butter and even goose lamps, people turned to retail therapy as a way to cope with the unprecedented situation. While some purchases were practical, many were simply strange and humorous, reflecting the unique challenges of lockdown life.