November 27, 2012 > Give reusable tote bags for the holidays Give reusable tote bags for the holidays Submitted By Alexis Vanni On January 1, 2013, Alameda County will join San Francisco, San Mateo County, San Jose, and 49 other California cities and counties in no longer providing single-use plastic bags at checkout - making reusable bags a must-have for any Bay Area resident during the gift-giving season. Here are some tips to help you incorporate reusable bags into your holidays this year: Save money and avoid the bag charge by bringing reusable bags while doing your holiday shopping. Get a head start on your New Year's resolution! Give friends and family reusable bags as gifts or stocking stuffers. Stylish, eco-friendly bags can be found at Etsy.com or for as little as $5 on Amazon. Get in the DIY holiday spirit and craft your own reusable bag using only an old t-shirt and scissors (no sew). You can even personalize it with a favorite design or message for a loved one. For more information on Alameda County's new ordinance, visit www.ReusableBagsAC.org.