Compact carryalls

These well-priced, lightweight bags fold up to practically nothing, carry the equivalent of two or three plastic grocery bags, and come in handy storage pouches to stash in your car or purse.

We’re coveting these bags not only for their fabulous patterns but for the fact that they’re waterproof, too. If you’re not into florals, look for these in several other lively designs, including black and white and retro. Envirosax bags, $8.50 each or $37.95 for a pouch of five, available atUsa.envirosax.com(800-603-3431).

Colorful Bags

Available in 12 vivid solid colors, these nylon bags have nice long handles (easier to hold when your bag is bulging). They also sit flat when filled, which is great for holding items you don’t want tilting, like eggs. Baggu bags, from $8 for one bag and pouch, atBaggubag.com.

To market, to market

Fine Cookingtest kitchen manager Jennifer Armentrout shops at her local farmers’ market with a basket like this, and other shoppers always ask her where she got it. She loves it because it’s nice and open, so her beautiful summer produce doesn’t get crushed. Reisenthel European collapsible market tote, $29.95 atSurlatable.com(800-243-0852).

On a roll

For those who don’t want to carry bags, this trolley is great for wheeling groceries. And when it’s not in use, the trolley’s wheels flatten, and it folds up for compact storage. Reisenthel folding grocery trolley, $19.95 atSurlatable.com(800-243-0852).