IKEA Hacks for a Great Trip

IKEA trips are some of my favorite shopping trips of the year. I live about 45 minutes south of the Centennial IKEA. I enjoy a trip up there two or there times a year. Over time I’ve been able to make a routine out of how I plan my shopping trips.

Here are a few know before you go tips and hacks to make your next IKEA trip fun and relaxing.

Special Note: I’ve included COVID-19 updates for the precautions IKEA is taking during the time of this article.

Don’t Go to IKEA on an Empty Stomach

Since IKEA is a little drive up the highway for me, I always stop at Starbucks first. If I’m lucky enough to have a date day with my husband or I bring a friend along it’s a fun tradition to enjoy coffee. And have a little socializing on the road.

I have only made the mistake of going to IKEA hungry once. It’s a huge facility. Even though there is a restaurant on-site you don’t want to be in the middle of the store somewhere and get hungry. Now I pack a small snack in my purse just in case the shopping trip takes longer than anticipated.

Speaking of the cafeteria, it’s very affordable. The restaurant is great for a snack or meal (ours was closed on this trip due to COVID). Sometimes I’ve even dropped the family off to grab some food (because they got hangry) while I shop.

Last tip on this topic, kinda, go to the restroom when you arrive. Don’t wait, just go before you shop.

What to Bring to IKEA

With four designated areas at IKEA, it’s no wonder people make a daytrip out of their shopping experience there. Here are a few items and my hacks for a great shopping trip.

Take Pictures of the Product Tag

Between carrying your bag, the cart, measuring the product, and corralling your family don’t bother writing down product info. I use my smart phone and take a picture of the product tag. Make sure to include the bottom most portion of the tag, it tells the location of where the item can be found in the store.

Take The Shortcuts at IKEA

IKEA has a very structured flow. However, if you are tight on time did you know there are shortcuts through the store? Simply look for the occasional exit sign that will let you cut through sections. Also if you know what you want to buy, just go to the marketplace for a much faster shopping experience.

Free Childcare at Småland

Småland is a free 60 minute childcare facility at IKEA. It’s forest-themed and named after the town where IKEA originated. Toilet trained children ages 4-10 can play while you shop. Keep in mind the service is first come, first serve and you might be turned away due to the strict staff-to-child ratio.

If you use this free service there is nothing wrong with taking a quick coffee break at the restaurant but try to be ethical and shop too.

*Special note: Due to COVID-19 at the time of this article Småland was closed for health precautions.

Take Your Time and Have a Great Day!

It’s really important to go to IKEA with a nice dose of patience. Choose your shopping day wisely (see below) and don’t be discouraged if you think it’s crowded. I’ve been on nearly every day of the week at this point. Sure, a weekday morning is less congested than a Saturday but the aisles are wide and you can still navigate through the store quickly.

*Special note: Due to COVID-19 at the time of this article there was a line of about 20-30 minutes to enter IKEA. They are managing customer numbers in their stores as a health precaution Just another reason to choose your shopping day wisely, I’d imagine the weekend line is much longer.

I love shopping Scandinavian style for our modern cabin. Add to that the organized, structured nature of the store, and my teacher-temperament, IKEA is for sure my happy place! I hope these ideas and tips are helpful when your next trip!

With hope for you and your intentional home,