That's a great question! A tipped-over trash can is a huge mess to clean up. Over the years, I've tried a few methods, and here's what really works.
First, add weight. This is the simplest fix. You can place a few heavy bricks or large rocks in the bottom of the can liner before putting your bag in. For wheeled bins, a cinder block inside works wonders. Some people even partially fill old milk jugs with sand and place them around the inner bottom.
Second, secure it in place. If you have a fence, deck railing, or a sturdy post, use a bungee cord or a ratchet strap to loosely tether the handle to it. Don't pull it too tight—just enough to prevent it from going far. For groups of cans, strapping two or three together with a belt or strap makes them much more stable as a unit.
Location is key. Place your cans in the most sheltered spot you can find, like against a garage wall or a solid fence, with the lids facing the wind's usual direction. Avoid open, exposed areas.
Finally, consider investing in solutions. You can buy commercial trash can anchors that stake into the ground, bins with weighted bottoms, or simple windbreak screens made of lattice or wood.
My best combo? A weighted bottom, a sheltered spot against the fence, and a bungee cord looped to a post. It hasn't failed me yet, even during some serious gusts!