Thrift Store Treasures: How to Find the Best Deals

I have been a thrift store addict all my life, as well as a consummate estate saler and flea marketer. There is nothing like the search for a bargain to set my heart racing. Whenever I travel, I always look for thrift stores! Why? One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. I also love that I am preventing more debris from going into our landfills. Plus, getting something at a fraction of what it cost new can feel pretty good. Pre-loved items are definitely a win-win. Here is my guide to what to buy and how to get the best deals.

Clothing. Name brand apparel that was originally ridiculously priced can be found for a fraction of that at the thrift store. Jeans are one item that you can find for far less than you would pay retail. I highly recommend trying clothing on before you purchase it as many stores have a no refund policy.

Shoes & Handbags. While it is highly unlikely that you will find a Chanel bag like this at a thrift store, never say never. Sometimes things turn up that you would have never thought possible. It is not uncommon to occasionally find high end shoes and handbags.

Books. Tired of paying top dollar for books? I have found so many good books at the thrift store, including recently released best sellers, usually for two to three dollars. It would seem that many people read a book once and then donate it? Lucky me! There are also cookbooks, textbooks, and children’s books galore.

Vintage/Antique Items. I have found lovely furniture, beautiful vintage china and all kinds of treasures at thrift stores. There are also always vintage pyrex dishes, candle holders, wine goblets and more, all very modestly priced.

Artwork and Frames. We have all heard stories of someone purchasing a painting at a thrift store that turned out to be worth a fortune. Clearly, this is rare, however, you can often find beautiful artwork and lovely frames at extremely reasonable prices. It’s always fun to find something beautiful for far less than it would cost new!

Children’s Toys and Games. As an occupational therapist working with children, I am always looking for things to improve fine motor, motor planning, and visual perceptual skills. Thrift stores never fail me.

Seasonal Decor. Looking for holiday decor at an affordable price? Thrift stores will never disappoint. There are always amazing deals for Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, and more.

Monterey Farmgirl’s Tips for Finding the Best Bargains:

1. Shop frequently. The more you visit the greater your chances of hitting the jackpot.
2. Nearly every store has sale days. Sometimes this can mean up to 50% off or more. Check with stores to learn about their specials.
3. The early bird gets the worm. Go early in the morning to get first pick, and find out when the store restocks merchandise.
4. Don’t forget to ask about senior citizen or military discounts.
5. No time to go shopping in person? Check out these fabulous online thrift stores: thredUP, Worn Wear, and Swap.com.

Here are some of my favorite thrift stores in the Monterey area: Branches Resale Shoppe,  Yellow Brick Road Benefit Shop, Central Coast Goodwill, and St. Vincent de Paul. Thank you for visiting my blog. I hope you found some helpful information. You may also enjoy Best Guest Dresses for a Beach Wedding and Scrumptious Strawberries: Fanciful Finds You’ll Love! Wishing you peace, love, joy, and happy thrifting!