One of the key skills to learn as a blind person is how to go shopping. It is necessary to have a good plan for going to the store and for getting your items.
Begin by making a list of things you want to purchase. It is best to do so in print so that you can hand it to the person who is guiding you.
Now you need to get transportation to the store. Some methods are available on demand and others must be scheduled a day or two in advance. Something to remember is that those that are on demand are often more expensive but do not have time restrictions. Once you are on your way, the best thing to do is to call before arriving at the store. Let them know you will be there soon and that because you are blind, you need assistance with shopping.
On arrival, you will enter the store and try to find a worker to guide you. If you cannot find a worker quickly, ask someone to lead you to a register or call the number of the store. When someone comes to help you, hand them your list and hold on to the cart while they lead you from isle to isle. If your guide asks you questions about your items, be sure to give a detailed description so they know exactly what you need.
Once you have everything, you will be taken to the register and guided through the payment process. If you have any questions about the cash you are handed or need assistance in other ways, now is the best time to let them know. After everything is bagged, ask your guide to take you to the entrance where you will call your transportation.
Once you are home, there are two ways to identify your items. You can disern what the items are simply by feeling the package or container. However, when feeling boxes there is no way to know what is inside without opening them. For this, use the Seeing AI app where you point the camera at the text on the label and it will be read to you. Seeing AI does not always give a clear description of what you are holding, so, you can alternatively use the Be My Eyes App to call a sighted volunteer who will help you with your requests. When all the items are identified, put them in specific places so that you will remember both where and what they are.