Trader Joe’s Just Dropped Its Popular "Mystery Totes" for a Limited Time Only

EAGAN, MN, USA - MARCH 7, 2024: Trader Joe's grocery store sign and trademark logo.
Credit: Ken Wolter/Shutterstock Credit: Ken Wolter/Shutterstock

As an avid cookbook and spice stockpiler, I can always appreciate the appeal of building a collection. Whether it’s those famous salt and pepper shaker trinkets from Cracker Barrel, or precious cookie sheets that have lasted generations, the appeal of this hobby involves the thrill of a hunt, capturing a treasure, and being able to preserve keepsakes for years to come.

Trader Joe’s has been subtly dropping limited-edition releases for its highly sought-after Mystery Bags for years. Shoppers can’t get enough of this collector’s item. After they went on a three-year hiatus during the pandemic in 2020, it wasn’t until 2023 that the popular grocer brought them back (for a short period only).

So, what exactly is a Trader Joe’s Mystery Bag? The paper package is designed with an ominous face on the front and a bold question mark on the top. This peculiar branding instantly draws you in to unearth what’s inside. When you rip open this surprise, you’ll find three reusable totes with graphics representing different cultures from various states in America. You may find one decked out with a low-country seafood boil as an ode to South Carolina, or a big shiny diamond representing Delaware. One pack costs $2.99.

One creator on Instagram, @TraderJoesObssessed, shared their collection of nearly 32 different bags captured throughout the years. One person commented on this post, saying, “I got Georgia this year, and it’s so cute! I’m going to go get more. I really would like D.C., Colorado, and Hawaii.” Another Trader Joe’s fan called out, “The obsession is real. I know I don’t need more, but I want more.”

Another shopper said, “I went to two different stores and nothing,” which suggests that because these Mystery Bags are very popular, some stores may already be sold out. So if you are trying to build up your collection this year, you may have to visit a few Trader Joe’s locations to get your hands on a pack. Good luck!

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