I am an avid thrift store shopper. I absolutely love shopping for my favorite wardrobe and household essentials at a discounted price. Thrift stores are my jam.

But thrifting isn’t just a “walk in and hope for the best” type of sport. My best thrifting trips often come with a plan, a list of what I need, and the drive to find hidden treasures.

In the past 3-4 years, I have picked up a few thrifting tips to get me through some of the busiest and best thrifting shopping trips.

Shop During The Week

Visit thrift stores on the weekdays—on weekdays, thrift stores have the best deals and sales. (Think about the 50 percent off Wednesdays!) People are more inclined to visit thrift stores on the weekend, so thrift stores are less busy during the week.

Go Through ALL The Sections

Don’t just stop at the women’s clothing section. The men’s clothes section is GREAT for shopping for oversized shirts, sweatsuits, and any other items. You can find some amazing and stylish hidden treasures. Don’t skip this section—or any section that you may skip firsthand!

Make A List

Go in with an idea in mind. It’s so easy to just say, “I want to go thrifting today!” And while it’s amazing (and I’ve certainly said that) that thrifting is self-care and is retail therapy, I do suggest going in with an idea in mind. You don’t need to have a list of specific items, but for example, maybe you’re looking for a new coat for winter, boots, or looking to update your work wardrobe. Do you need any new dishes? New throw pillows? Have even the vaguest idea of what you want to shop for—it could just be books!

Do Not Skip The Housewares Section

Time to give a flex here; I found SIX matching wine glasses at the local thrift store. I was overjoyed when I found these glasses, and they were just the ones I was looking for. They were $2 each, so overall, I paid $12 for six wine glasses (compared to the $40 ones I was looking at Target). Do not skip the housewares section—you can find bowls, mixing bowls, glasses, silverware, and so much more. Just be sure to wash these when you get home before using them.

Donate

I mean, of course. This doesn’t just go for doing good, but also this will help you clean out your closet so you know what you need and don’t need.

Be patient

Yes, while some people find incredible finds at the thrift store, sometimes, you won’t find anything that catches your eye. Be patient, and know what you want. There are always new items circulating the thrift stores—shop frequently! It took me years to find my own personal style.

Watch Out For Sales + Discounts

Don’t just buy something because it’s on sale or at a low price. The low prices may tempt you, but your cart can grow if you’re not careful. I get so tempted to throw everything I like in my cart, and my bill equals close to $100. I go thrift shopping to save money, and while yes, I can find a ton of great items for less than paying full-price at department stores; however, try and choose the items that you would wear on an everyday basis (or for a special event).

Shop off-season for clothes

For example, buy a winter coat during the spring or summer and get it for less.

MORE RESOURCES FOR THRIFTING:

I’m not the best expert for thrifting; when doing research for this blog post alone, there are some incredible blog posts, articles, and videos devoted to thrifting.

Keep Calm and Chiffon | 16 Tips For How to Thrift Shop and Find Gems + 10 Thrift Fashion Bloggers You Need to Follow

Made in Mom Jeans | My Top 30 Thrifting Tips + 30 Thrift Shopping Trips You Probably Haven’t Heard Before