When I lived in the west, the gocers always asked "paper or plastic." Why don't they in the east?

Question

I get both paper and plastic no matter what I want, unless I push the bagger aside and do it myself.

Answer 1

That's strange.  I live in AL and they always ask here.  If you don't specify they give you plastic though.

Answer 2

I use Chico Bags http://www.chicobag.com/ instead of paper or plastic!  These bags fold into a very small ball and can be clipped onto your belt.  http://www.reusablebags.com/store/chicob...

There are similar-type bags on the market.  Best of all, the bottom doesn't rip out of these bags while you're carrying heavy cans of food.