Best Ways to Carry Your Haul at First Monday Trade Days
Best Ways to Carry Your Haul at First Monday Trade Days
Visiting First Monday Trade Days in Canton, Texas is an exciting adventure for shoppers and collectors alike. With thousands of vendors offering everything from antiques and vintage decor to handmade crafts and fresh produce, it’s easy to accumulate quite the haul. But once you start filling your bags and boxes, carrying everything comfortably can become a challenge. Knowing the best ways to carry your finds can help you shop longer and enjoy the day without unnecessary strain.
Here are some of the top methods and tools to carry your haul efficiently during your visit.
Use a Rolling Cart or Wagon
One of the most popular and practical ways to transport your purchases at First Monday is with a rolling cart or wagon. These come in all sizes, from lightweight collapsible carts to sturdy garden wagons with large wheels.
A rolling cart allows you to:
Easily move heavy or bulky items without tiring your arms and shoulders.
Keep your hands free to browse or carry smaller bags.
Avoid back pain from carrying weight unevenly.
Look for carts with durable wheels that can handle rough or uneven terrain. Some vendors even sell or rent wagons onsite, but bringing your own ensures you have it from the start.
Bring Reusable Shopping Bags
Reusable shopping bags are a great supplement to your cart or wagon. They are lightweight, easy to carry, and perfect for smaller purchases like clothing, jewelry, or packaged foods.
Benefits include:
Environmentally friendly alternative to plastic bags.
Easy to fold and stash when not in use.
Often sturdier than single-use bags, reducing the risk of tearing.
Pack several bags to organize your haul by type or vendor, which makes unpacking easier later.
Use a Backpack for Hands-Free Convenience
A backpack is an underrated tool for flea market shopping but highly effective for keeping your hands free while carrying essentials.
Backpacks work well for:
Carrying personal items such as water bottles, sunscreen, snacks, and your wallet.
Holding small purchases that don’t require special handling.
Distributing weight evenly across your shoulders to reduce fatigue.
Look for backpacks with padded straps and multiple compartments to keep everything organized.
Consider a Tote Bag with Shoulder Straps
For shoppers who prefer a traditional bag, a large tote with comfortable shoulder straps can be ideal. Unlike thin plastic bags, sturdy totes distribute weight better and are easier to carry over long periods.
Features to look for:
Durable fabric like canvas or nylon.
Deep compartments for bulky items.
Reinforced stitching to handle heavy loads.
Many vendors offer tote bags, but having your own can save you money and ensure durability.
For more information, check out these topics:
Don’t Forget Protective Wrapping
If you’re buying fragile or delicate items such as glassware, ceramics, or artwork, protecting your haul is crucial. Bring bubble wrap, tissue paper, or old newspapers to cushion your purchases and prevent damage.
Some vendors will provide wrapping materials, but it’s best to have your own on hand for added security, especially if you’re planning to transport items a long distance.
Pack Light and Plan Your Route
While carrying tools help, it’s also smart to pace your shopping and plan your haul. Don’t overload yourself early in the day—take breaks to drop off purchases in your vehicle or at a designated meeting spot.
Planning your route using the Canton Trade Days map can help you hit your favorite vendors last, so you don’t carry heavy bags all day. This strategy reduces fatigue and makes your visit more enjoyable.
Summary: Make Carrying Your Haul Easier
The best ways to carry your haul at First Monday combine comfort, convenience, and protection. Rolling carts and wagons are excellent for heavy or large items, reusable bags and backpacks offer hands-free mobility, and tote bags provide sturdy support for mid-sized purchases.
By packing the right tools and planning ahead, you’ll shop smarter, carry easier, and have more fun exploring the incredible variety of treasures at Canton Trade Days.