Many people do, although that wasn’t the original purpose. Just be mindful of sharp turns.
A Tiny Feature That Makes Driving Easier
What makes this little hidden feature so satisfying is how simple it is.
Vehicle& Traffic Safety
No screens. No apps. No complicated technology. Just smart, human-centered design solving a common, everyday problem.
And once you finally understand what that weird little gap is for, you suddenly appreciate how much thought goes into even the smallest parts of a car interior. Engineers aren’t just shaping metal and plastic—they’re anticipating your life, your errands, your moments of frustration, and quietly building solutions you might never notice… until you do.
So next time you load groceries into your car, take another look at your cup holders.
Other Clever Ways People Use the Slot
Even though grocery bags are the intended purpose, drivers have found plenty of creative secondary uses over the years:
Purse or handbag straps: Keeps bags upright and prevents them from sliding onto the floor
Takeout bags: Fast food containers stay secure during turns and stops
Cell phone holder: Some phones fit horizontally inside the slot (though not the original intent)
Sunglasses or gum storage: Not official—but many people use it this way
Reusable shopping bags: Works exactly like disposable bags, often even better thanks to sturdier handles
The Evolution of Cup Holder Design
Modern cup holders have become surprisingly sophisticated. Older cars barely included them at all; before the 1980s, most vehicles prioritized ashtrays over coffee cups.
Quick-access compartments
Thoughtful convenience features
The grocery bag slot emerged as a smart, multi-purpose solution that required no additional cabin space. It’s a perfect example of functional design hiding inside everyday objects—engineering that serves you without demanding attention.
Discover more
food
Vehicles
Food
