That's an excellent question! While it might be tempting to use standard kitchen trash bags in all your outdoor cans, I'd generally advise against it for several practical reasons.
Outdoor trash containers face much tougher conditions than indoor bins. They're exposed to sun, rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations that can quickly degrade flimsy bags. Standard indoor bags often become brittle in cold weather or weaken under direct sunlight, leading to rips and tears when you least expect them.
Additionally, outdoor bins typically hold heavier, bulkier items like yard waste, packaging materials, or post-party debris. Regular bags simply aren't designed for this weight capacity and frequently split at the seams when lifted, creating messy cleanups.
For most outdoor applications, I recommend specifically designed outdoor or contractor bags. These are typically thicker, more durable, and often treated to resist UV damage and moisture penetration. They come in heavier mil thicknesses and have reinforced seams to handle the extra weight and rough treatment.
That said, if you're only using a small outdoor bin for lightweight, dry materials and it's protected from direct weather, standard bags might work temporarily. But for reliable performance and peace of mind, investing in proper outdoor-rated bags will save you from messy spills and frustration in the long run.
Always check your specific trash can's dimensions and recommended bag sizes too - a properly fitting bag is less likely to slip down into the can or overflow at the top. Your local home improvement store will have various options suitable for different outdoor needs and seasons.