7 Essentials For The Farmers Market This Spring And Summer

Going to the farmer’s market is a joy. Especially in the spring and summer growing seasons when produce is abundant, freshness is in the air, and there are so many wonderful fruits, vegetables, herbs, and more to browse and buy. While you really only need yourself (and your money) to shop at your local farmer’s market, these essentials will help make the most of your food haul.

Syzy Tetra Tote Bag

Whether you impulsively stop at the market or just always want to have an extra bag on hand, this stylish tote bag that folds into a very tiny pouch is essential. Carry it in your work bag, leave it in your car or attached to your keys and you’ll always have a sturdy tote at the ready to hold up to 60 pounds of goods from the market. $25, syzy.com

Reusable Bread Bag

Picking up a loaf of sourdough at the market? This reusable bread bag helps reduce waste and keep your bread fresh. Keeki’s beeswax lined cloth allows for natural air flow to keeps bread fresher longer, so you get the most for your purchase and reduce food waste. $25, amazon.com

Ice Cream Chiller

This object really has just one purpose, but it’s a good one. S’well’s ice cream cooler comfortably fits a pint of ice cream and keeps it frozen for four hours. If farm-fresh dairy is avilable at your farmer’s market, this is a must to get it home safely. It can also double as a lunch container to keep food cold or warm. $30, swell.com

Mason Jars

Whether you’re making jams, pickling, making condiments, sauces or more, you’ll want a range of mason jars at home for your farmer’s market haul. Glass Ball jars are the classic option, available in various sizes with screw on lids. $15, amazon.com

Compact Umbrella

The forecast may be foreboding, but you have plans to shop. Get out there and support the local vendors braving the weather. Davek’s 8 oz ultra lightweight umbrella is just 7 inches long, so it can fit in almost any pocket, and be at the ready whenever you need it. A carrying sleeve helps prevent everything else from getting wet when the sun comes out and you can fold it up. $60, davekny.com

Soft Cooler

While produce is fine at room temperature for a few hours, other items like eggs, juice, dairy, meat, and seafood may need a cooler to stay fresh while you shop and transport your goods home. Yeti’s soft coolers are stylish and small enough to tote easily, thanks to a shoulder strap. The leakproof isolation ensures everything stays cool for hours, no drips! $200, yeti.com

Reusable Produce Bags

Continue helping the environment by carrying reusable produce bags with you at the farmer’s market. These washable (and compostable) fabric bags help keep plastic out of the landfill (and off your food), and of course can be used anywhere you purchase produce, and to store it in your fridge at home. $30, ecoroots.us