[Senator Bedfellow]

The store can do what it wishes with regard to such things.

The nice thing is that this sword cuts both ways - they're free to ask to search my bag, and I'm free to give them the finger and keep walking.

[ansel12]

"The nice thing is that this sword cuts both ways - they're free to ask to search my bag, and I'm free to give them the finger and keep walking."

Correct, I'm fine about searches entering the store, but once I've purchased anything, it is mine and no one touches it. I simply look them in the eye when I leave and they don't bother me, a few times I've had to say a soft but firm no.

[MineralMan]

Of course you are, and they can detain you until the police arrives.

So, the store wants to look in the store bag before you leave the store. Who cares? Takes 5 seconds.

I worry about lots of things, but some guy checking the bag to see that I didn't steal anything in a store is no big deal to me.

Your opinion may differ. I'll watch as you assert your rights, but just briefly before I go to my car with my purchases.