It’s been an incredibly challenging, unpredictable year. From the COVID-19 pandemic to viral sensations like “Tiger King” and the Pentagon’s acknowledgment of potential UFOs, the past 365 days have felt utterly disorienting. Honestly, it’s hard to keep track of what’s real and what’s not. But one of the most bizarre aspects of 2020 and early 2021 has been our online shopping habits, which took a strange turn while we were stuck at home. With stores shuttered, many of us turned to shopping—not just for essentials like hand sanitizer and toilet paper, but for some truly odd items. An informal survey conducted by our team revealed a wide array of peculiar purchases during quarantine. Here are some of the most memorable:
- “Grow Your Greens” Hydroponic System
Self-sufficient and self-watering, this hydroponic farm stand became a go-to for many trying to prep for a potential apocalypse. “I wanted to be self-sufficient and go off the grid,” said Emily, who shared her experience with us. - Heated Vest
Feeling cold and achy? A portable, wearable heating pad vest was a popular purchase, allowing people to stay cozy while moving around their homes without dealing with cords or fuss. - A New Dog
While adopting a dog isn’t exactly quirky, it became a common choice during the pandemic. Many turned to pets for companionship amid the isolation. - Harmonica
Looking for a unique hobby? How about a harmonica? While it may seem fun, it could also create a cacophony that irritates your partner—definitely a gamble! - Trampoline
With parks closed, parents found themselves in a bind for entertaining their kids. Enter the trampoline, which provided hours of fun (and a few potential injuries). - Pounds of Peanut Butter
Grocery runs turned into adventures, leading some to go overboard. One individual, Max, ordered 24 jars of peanut butter without realizing it, leading to a peanut butter-filled holiday for his family. - Oversized Rainbow Christmas Tree
Brittany ordered a colorful Christmas tree, expecting a vibrant centerpiece, but ended up with a tiny, bland version. Talk about a holiday letdown! - Medical Marijuana
Some turned to medical marijuana for relief during stressful times. “I got a medical card to help with my quarantine anxiety,” shared Jenna, highlighting the common pursuit of wellness during these times. - Bulk Bubble Gum
In a nostalgic twist, one husband bought four giant tubs of Bazooka bubble gum after reminiscing about childhood. A sweet throwback, indeed! - Goose Lamp
Lastly, we have the standout purchase: a giant goose lamp. While not everyone may find it appealing, it certainly adds a quirky touch to any room!
Besides these unusual finds, many also invested in practical items. From DIY supplies to gardening tools, people embraced home improvement projects. David transformed into a one-man landscaping service while puzzles and tech gadgets saw a surge in popularity. A study from Ibotta noted significant increases in food and drink sales, with spirits jumping by 33% and bakery items by 17%.
What was your most bizarre quarantine purchase? Check out this related article for more on unusual pandemic finds.
Summary:
The pandemic has led to some truly strange online purchases as individuals sought comfort and distraction during lockdowns. From self-watering hydroponic systems to oversized Christmas trees and even goose lamps, the last year has seen a wide variety of unique buys. While some opted for practical items for home improvement, many others indulged in quirky purchases that will certainly make for interesting stories in the future.
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