That's a great question, and one I get asked a lot! In my experience, when you buy a standard outdoor trash can or garbage bin from a store, it typically does not come with a liner or bag included. The product you purchase is usually just the container itself—the durable plastic or metal bin meant to withstand the elements.
The reason is pretty straightforward: liners are considered a consumable item. People have different preferences for bag thickness, size, and material (like standard plastic, compostable, or heavy-duty contractor bags). Also, usage varies greatly; a kitchen bin needs frequent changes, while a yard waste can might not use a liner at all.
So, you'll need to buy bags separately. The key is to check your can's dimensions and buy liners that are the right size and strength. A bag that's too small won't fit properly, and one that's too thin might tear. For most outdoor cans, I recommend sturdy, large-capacity bags designed for outdoor use. They resist punctures from branches or other sharp debris better than flimsy kitchen bags.
Pro tip: Even without a liner, you can keep your can cleaner by occasionally rinsing it out and using a deodorizer. But for easy, hassle-free cleanup, using a compatible liner is definitely the way to go. Just remember to pick them up on your next shopping trip!