Shopping at a Dutch supermarket

You are new in the Netherlands. Today you go to the supermarket for the first time.

Cultural note: The bonuskaart is Albert Heijn's free loyalty card. Without it you pay the regular price; with it you get "Bonus" discounts, which can be substantial (sometimes 30–50% off selected items). You can get a card for free at any Albert Heijn or sign up in the app. Jumbo, the other major supermarket chain, has a similar system called "Jumbo Extra's". If the cashier asks "Heeft u een bonuskaart?" and you don't have one, just say "Nee, ik heb er geen" or simply "Nee, dank u."

Cultural note: Statiegeld rates depend on bottle size: small plastic bottles (under 1L) carry 15 cent; bottles of 1L and above carry 25 cent. Aluminium cans also carry 15 cent. You pay the deposit when you buy the drink and get it back at the statiegeldmachine when you return the empty container.

Cultural note: Plastic bags at Dutch supermarkets cost money (typically 25 cent). This is not statiegeld; you cannot return the bag. Bring a reusable bag (tas) from home. Most Dutch shoppers carry a foldable shopping bag in their backpack or coat.