It’s been an undeniably challenging and unpredictable year. Between the global pandemic, viral sensations like “Tiger King,” and even the Pentagon’s acknowledgment of potential UFOs, the past 365 days have left many of us feeling disoriented. One of the most surprising outcomes of this time has been our online shopping habits. When the world put the brakes on daily life, many turned to online retailers for a distraction, purchasing far more than just essential items like hand sanitizer and toilet paper. An informal survey conducted by our team revealed an array of bizarre purchases people made during this unique period.
Standout Quarantine Buys
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Hydroponic Farmstand
A self-watering and self-fertilizing garden solution, this innovative purchase helped some individuals prepare for uncertain times. “This was my way to embrace self-sufficiency,” remarks Jenna, one of our contributors. -
Heating Pad Vest
Feeling chilly or sore? A portable heating pad vest is the perfect remedy. With auto-shutoff features and adjustable heat settings, you can move freely around your home without the hassle of cords. -
A New Dog
While not the most unconventional purchase, many opted to adopt pets during the pandemic. With social distancing in full swing, having a furry friend for companionship made a lot of sense. -
Harmonica
Searching for a hobby? Consider picking up a harmonica! It’s a great way to annoy your partner and can be mastered without any formal training. What could possibly go wrong? -
Trampoline
With schools closing, parents found themselves scrambling for ways to keep their children entertained. Enter the trampoline—an exciting, albeit risky, backyard addition. -
Bulk Peanut Butter
Food shopping trends skyrocketed during the pandemic, leading some to stockpile essentials. “My dad accidentally ordered 24 jars of peanut butter on Amazon,” shares Lisa. “We all got jars for Christmas.” -
Rainbow Christmas Tree
What was meant to be a festive addition turned out to be a disappointment. Brittany ordered a colorful tree, but it arrived as a mere 18-inch, bland decoration. -
Medical Marijuana
Some purchases were more personal; Sara invested in a medical marijuana card to cope with anxiety during the lockdown. The stress was palpable, and this was her way to find some relief. -
Bulk Bubble Gum
In times of uncertainty, nostalgia can be comforting. After reminiscing about childhood treats, Rita’s husband went overboard on Amazon and ordered four giant tubs of Bazooka bubble gum. -
Goose Lamp
One of the quirkiest items on this list is a giant goose lamp. While it may not appeal to everyone, it certainly adds an eccentric flair to any room. Not a fan of geese? There are also duck, mouse, bear, and mushroom lamps available.
Aside from these peculiar purchases, many took the opportunity to invest in practical items for home improvement projects, gardening supplies, and tech gadgets. A notable uptick in sales has been seen in food, spirits, and bakery items, suggesting that many sought comfort in culinary delights during these tough times.
Curious about more unusual quarantine purchases? Check out this post on our blog, or explore resources like this one for accurate information on home insemination. For further understanding of pregnancy and related topics, this Wikipedia page is a fantastic resource.
Summary
The pandemic led to a surge in unusual online purchases, from quirky items like a goose lamp and bulk bubble gum to practical investments in home improvement and gardening supplies. As people adapted to a new way of life, shopping habits evolved, reflecting a mix of creativity and necessity during these challenging times.