Shopping in the Country

Shopping shouldn't be any more of a problem than if you're living in a more urban area. However, if you don't have a car it maybe a little more tricky with having to travel further to your nearest supermarket.

Village Shop

Some villages have at least one local shop often with a post office. You'll be able to get all your essentials there and, of course, the morning paper.

Petrol Station

Petrol stations are few and far between in the country, but if you're lucky, there might be one close to your village. It could even be open until late.

Supermarket

The easiest place to buy your weekly shopping is of course at the supermarket. Large supermarkets are usually situated on the outskirts of towns or cities, so it shouldn't be too much of a trek just to buy food!

Transport to and from your nearest supermarket is something to consider if you don't own a car or family vehicle. Have you ever tried carrying 4 or 5 shopping bags on the handle bars of your bike?! Trying to get your weekly shopping for the family back on the bus may be a struggle as well, especially if the bus stop is still a good walk to your home. Check with your nearest supermarket whether you can buy your weekly groceries online, and they might even have a delivery service to your home.

Even better, offer to share petrol expenses with a wheeled neighbour and go shopping together.

Stock Up

Be prepared to shop in bulk, during the winter if at no other time. At some time every year the more remote of areas can become difficult to get out of if not completely isolated. A well provisioned freezer can turn a crisis into an impromptu holiday.

Do make sure that your household insurance is up to date. Villages are also prone to power cuts and the contents of a full freezer can be expensive to replace.