Guest Post: 7 Tips for Shopping at Thrift Stores

Before you run out to the nearest department store to update your wardrobe, take a trip to your local thrift store. There’s nothing wrong with buying second hand items – there are plenty of clothes that are in perfect condition. How many times have you given clothes to thrift stores that you wore just a few times, or maybe some things you never even wore! Thrift stores can contain tons of items that will look great in your wardrobe, and they are all much cheaper than anything you will find in stores. Read on for seven tips that will help you get the most out of your thrift store shopping spree.

1.       Set a budget. With many items at thrift stores selling for under $5, it can be very easy to accidently spend way more than you intended. Be sure to set a budget before you go, or else you may not save as much as you thought you would!

2.       Try all your items on. Buying a $2 shirt that doesn’t fit won’t save you any money at all. Because thrift store items come from many different eras and designers, all sizes will fit a little differently. Try on everything you intend on buying before you leave, especially since most thrift stores do not accept any returns.

3.       Use caution when buying shoes. While it may be difficult to resist a $3 pair of shoes, purchasing new shoes may be a better use of your money. Used shoes are generally worn down and might not last you very long. Just check to see what kind of condition the shoes are in before you purchase them.

4.       Diversify your wardrobe with thrift store clothes. Have you ever wanted to try out a new style, but you don’t want to spend the money on something you won’t like? Thrift store clothes are so cheap that you won’t feel guilty if you end up only wearing something a few times or get sick of a certain style or color quickly.

5.       Thrift stores are great for children’s clothes. If you have kids, you know how quickly they outgrow their clothing. Instead of spending tons of money every time your little ones have a growth spurt, picking up some new items at a thrift store can save money. Take your kids with you so they can pick out clothes that they will enjoy wearing.

6.       Keep your eye out for sales. Believe it or not, even thrift stores have sales! The items they put on sale rotate often, so be sure that you are aware of when different sales are at the thrift store of your choice.

7.       Have fun! Going shopping at a thrift store can be a great little adventure to add to your weekend to-do list. Shopping at thrift stores is all about taking your time and searching for that perfect new addition to compliment your existing wardrobe. When you find what you’re looking for, you’ll be glad to know that you won’t be ringing your wallet dry at the cash register!

About the Author: Kiley Theiring is a film student at Chapman University who also loves to write. She writes about saving money and living frugally for Coupon Mountain and also maintains her own personal blog.