I have boxes that I have been using to collect recyclables that have been around for at least 10 years; maybe 20. They have Duck tape at the top to hold the flaps down, or maybe up. When I go to recycling, they know to dump my boxes out and put the box back into my trunk.
I try not to take a bag at the store if it's only an item or two. I have my own grocery bag. This one has been going for 30 years. I got in 1990. I get a nickle every time I use it! It goes into the wash machine every once in a while.