Moving to the U.S. is exciting, but even everyday activities like grocery shopping can feel unfamiliar, especially if you’re used to doing your grocery rounds at SM Hypermarket, Puregold, or your favourite public market stall.
In America, things are done a bit differently, from how you line up to how you bag your own items.
This guide is here to help you adjust and feel more confident in U.S. grocery stores, with comparisons to familiar Filipino habits to make things easier to understand.
Supermarket styles: From Palengke to Costco
Different types of stores serve different purposes — some you’ll visit every week, others occasionally.
- Supermarkets
Like SM Hypermarket or Robinsons. They have a wide range of items from fresh produce to household goods. Examples are Walmart, Safeway, and Kroger.
- Discount Stores
Basic setups with fewer brands and lower prices and are potential destination for pasalubong items. Bring your own bags and even a coin for a cart at stores like Aldi. - Warehouse Clubs
Large-scale stores like Costco or Sam’s Club that sell in bulk, similar to S&R in the Philippines. A membership fee is required. - Ethnic and Specialty Markets
Perfect for Filipino products like sinigang mix, longganisa, or pandesal. Look for Seafood City or local Asian stores. - Convenience Stores
They are similar to the familiar sari-sari stores back in the Philippines. but bigger, with limited essentials. Examples: 7-Eleven and Circle K.
Shopping cart etiquette
Practising supermarket etiquette is important, especially during busy hours when aisles are crowded, staff are working quickly, and certain items may be in limited supply.
A little patience, respect for others, and awareness of your surroundings can go a long way and make the shopping experience smoother for everyone.
In the U.S., there’s an unspoken rule about how to use carts respectfully.
Return your cart
After unloading your groceries into your car, always return the shopping cart to the designated cart return area, usually found nearby in the parking lot. Leaving carts scattered around can block parking spaces, damage cars, or create extra work for store staff — something considered inconsiderate in American culture.
Keep aisles clear
When browsing or deciding what to buy, make sure to park your cart to one side of the aisle with your cart, rather than leaving it in the middle. This allows other shoppers to pass through easily, especially during peak hours when space can get tight, whether customers are also looking for products in your aisle or store staff are refilling the shelves.
Be polite
Simple gestures like saying “excuse me,” “please,” or “thank you” go a long way in American supermarkets. Whether you’re asking someone to move, reaching for an item, or responding to a staff member asking for your membership card, practicing supermarket etiquette by being kind and courteous is always appreciated and expected.
Behaving at checkout counters
Checkout lines are often busy, so it’s important to wait your turn, respect personal space, and be ready with your payment to keep the line moving smoothly.
Avoid cutting in line, arguing about prices, or rushing the cashier, as these are seen as disrespectful and inconsiderate.
Line up properly
In many cultures, including the U.S., people take queuing seriously, so always stand at the end of the line and wait for your turn without skipping ahead. Cutting in, even unintentionally, can come off as rude and may lead to uncomfortable confrontations.
No eating before paying
Unlike in the Philippines where you might nibble on snacks while walking around the store, in the U.S. it’s considered shoplifting if you eat or drink items before they’ve been scanned and paid for. Always wait until after checkout, even if you’re really hungry or thirsty.
Be ready for small talk
Cashiers in the U.S. often make light conversation during checkout, like asking how your day is or commenting on an item you’re buying. A friendly smile and a short response like “I’m good, thanks!” is enough — it’s just part of the warm, casual customer service culture. Since cashiers often interact with newcomers unfamiliar with this practice, it’s not uncommon to encounter shy customers who feel unsure or caught off guard by the small talk.
Self-Checkout: The do it yourself payment and bagging
Self-checkout lanes allow you to scan and pay for your items without the assistance of a cashier. You’ll also be responsible for bagging your groceries, making it a quicker and more hands-on experience, though staff are available to help if needed.
Scan your own items
At self-checkout stations, you’ll find a barcode scanner either built into the counter or attached as a handheld device. To scan each item, look for the barcode (usually near the bottom or back of the packaging) and pass it in front of the scanner until you hear a beep, which confirms it’s been read.
Make sure each item is scanned before placing it in the bagging area, as the system tracks weight and may pause if something is missed.
Bag your own groceries
Unlike in the Philippines where baggers often help pack your items, in many U.S. supermarkets—especially at self-checkout—you’re expected to bag your own groceries. You can bring your own reusable bags or use the plastic or paper bags provided, packing heavier items at the bottom and lighter or fragile ones on top for balance and protection.
Pay with a card
After scanning all your items, you’ll be prompted to pay using a card reader, usually located next to the screen. Insert, swipe, or tap your debit or credit card, then follow the on-screen instructions—this method is fast, secure, and widely accepted in U.S. grocery stores.
Ask for help if needed
There’s usually a staff member nearby to assist.
Bagging groceries: you do the packing
Bagging is usually your responsibility unless you’re at a full-service checkout.
Use your own bags
Many stores charge for plastic. Reusable bags are encouraged (and also eco-friendly).
Bag smart
Heavy items at the bottom, cold items together, and cleaning supplies separated from food. You might now wonder that Filipino shoppers are more pampered with the availability of baggers who pack grocery and even bring it to your car.
No tipping needed
Store staff don’t expect tips, even if they help bag your groceries.
Payment methods: Cards over cash
In most U.S. supermarkets, debit and credit cards are the preferred way to pay, and some stores even operate as cashless. For newcomers, having a card ready makes checkout faster and helps avoid delays, especially in self-checkout lanes where cash might not be accepted. Proper supermarket etiquette at this stage of your grocery helps avoid delays in the checkout counter.
Tap, swipe, or insert
Familiarize yourself with using chip-enabled cards and tap-to-pay features.
Cash still works
But coins like dimes and quarters are confusing at first — take your time.
Checks are rare
Avoid unless you’re sure the store accepts them.
EBT/SNAP – Government benefits are used through special cards at approved stores.
American store culture: know what not to do
Avoid these common mistakes that may come off as rude or inconsiderate.
Don’t eat before paying
While it’s common in the Philippines to snack on chips or sip a drink while shopping, this is frowned upon in the U.S. Eating or drinking items before paying can be seen as theft, so it’s best to wait until after checkout—even if you plan to pay for it later.
Don’t crowd
Give other shoppers enough personal space, especially in checkout lines or when someone is browsing an aisle. Standing too close can make people uncomfortable, as Americans value personal space more than what we might be used to in busy Filipino markets or sari-sari stores.
Don’t ignore express lanes
Express lanes at the grocery store are marked for customers with a limited number of items, usually 10 or 15. If you have a full cart, avoid these lanes out of respect for others and to keep lines moving quickly for those making smaller purchases.
Don’t take more than allowed
Sales may be limited per person (e.g., “Limit 2 per customer” signs were common during shortage of essential items during Covid-19 pandemic).
Shopping tips for newcomer shoppers
A few simple habits can make your grocery trip smoother and less stressful.
Make a list
Helps you stay focused and avoid forgetting essentials.
Go during off-peak hours
Weekday mornings are calmer than weekends.
Learn store layouts
Items are usually in the same sections across stores (produce, dairy, frozen).
Use store apps
They offer digital coupons and rewards, like a modern-day suki card.
Don’t be shy to ask – Staff are trained to help — it’s okay to ask if you can’t find something.
The Filipino touch: making grocery runs feel like home
While American supermarkets may not have the same palengke vibe, you can still bring warmth and familiarity with you.
A simple smile at the people around you goes a long way — kindness is universal, no matter where you are. Take the time to get to know your local cashier or butcher; building that rapport means they’ll remember you, making your shopping experience feel more personal.
Finding a store that carries Filipino products can help you create a connection, turning it into your new “suki,” just like back home. Lastly, make grocery day special by turning it into a bonding activity with your family, just like the traditions you are accustomed to in the Philippines.
Final thoughts
Grocery store etiquette in the U.S. may take some time to adjust to, but don’t worry—you’ll get the hang of it. While the systems might differ from what you’re used to in the Philippines, your Filipino charm, patience, and practical sense will definitely help you navigate the aisles with ease.
So bring your list, pack your reusable bags, and head down the aisle with confidence — you’ve got this, kabayan.