Yes, the open bag photo is exaggerated for this photo, but I do see similar thoughtlessness when I’m out shopping. Each time it amazes me that someone would walk away to pick up an item, leaving their handbag open with their wallet, and personal information exposed for someone to quickly snap up. What I refer to as a Handbag Gadget is an inexpensive REI Carabiner that can keep your handbag safe.
A few years ago, I was in a big box store, when someone grabbed a woman’s handbag from the child seat of her cart. She had briefly turned away to look at an item a few feet away. The thief dashed out the door, and into a waiting car quickly speeding away with her identity, phone, and car keys. From that point on, I have always kept my bag zipped, and clipped to my cart.
As we enter the busy shopping season using a carabiner is a terrific way to let in-store thieves know, you know they’re there.
There are a lot of different types of bag hooks, but I find the REI Carabiner to be easy to purchase, priced right and great at keeping your bag secured to a shopping cart, cafe chair, or off the floor in a public toilet.
They are light weight, making them convenient to take along in your bag. I never leave home without one.
They make great little girlfriend gifts or stocking stuffers. As a Handbag Gadget an REI Carabiner is the perfect accessory to attach bags for someone on a walker, or new moms with carriages.
REI Carabiner on Cafe Chair and Shopping Cart
REI: Sold as a carabiner for mountain climbing gear. It has enough open space to hold my bag and several shopping totes, starting at $5.95. [Shop Now]
“Happiness Makes the Heart Bloom” by Phebe Phillips. Illustrated in chalk pastels for her book, Why Me? Positive Verse for Loss and Sadness.
What a GREAT idea ;). I will pass this along :). Hugs!
Thanks Nicole!
Happy Thanksgiving Phebe! Xs
Yes, Happy Thanksgiving to you! ~~With friendship, P