Making the Most Out of Thrift Shopping to Stretch Your Dollar Further
Thrift shopping is one of the best ways to save money if you are looking to trim your budget and make your clothing and household goods dollar go even further.
A successful thrift shopper understands the importance of self control and practicing patience. Unlike traditional stores where you know what to expect, you will need more time and effort to sift through the goods at a thrift store.
However, there are a number of strategies that you can employ to make yourself a better thrift shopper.
Here are a few tips to consider if your goal is to end up with the best deals.
Sell Before Shopping
Although many thrift shoppers choose this route simply for the thrill of the hunt, other shoppers may be choosing this outlet as a means to save money. These shoppers will find that it makes the most sense financially to be diligent about selling some of your own items before spending more money. Most consignment stores will give you a substantial credit toward their items if you bring in some of your own gently used pieces of clothing, books, household goods, and more. Or try selling the things that you no longer use online before hitting up the thrift shops. The goal is to sell enough to replace the money that you are spending.
Be Smart About What You Wear
It is important to know that most thrift stores do not have the conveniences that you may be used to enjoying in traditional outlets. This includes the use of dressing rooms. As such, it is prudent to be smart about what you wear while thrift shopping so that you can easily try on clothes in an aisle if needed. Keep in mind that most thrift outlets also do not offer returns, making it important that you make sure something fits properly before purchasing it.
Learn When Your Favorite Stores Restock
Savvy thrift shoppers know when their favorite stores restock their inventories. For instance, you will find the most success scoring the best items if you head to the thrift store shortly after the shelves and racks have been restocked. Waiting too long after this time will mean that everything has been picked through, leaving you with less of a selection.
Shop With a Plan
If the reason that you are thrift shopping is primarily to save money, you are going to want to go into each store with a plan. Keeping a running list of items that your family needs on your smartphone will help to guide your shopping so that you are buying items that serve no purpose. Having a plan will also help you to avoid impulse buys. Set a budget prior to leaving your home and consider using cash so that you are not tempted to overspend.
Shop for Off-Season Goods
Just like with traditional retail stores, the best time to buy seasonal clothing and goods is when the demand for these items is the lowest. Shopping for winter coats at the end of the season is likely to yield the best results in terms of price and inventory selection.
Focus on Quality
When it comes to thrifting, you are going to need to learn how to discern different levels of quality. The last thing that you want to do is to spend money on an item that does not last. Looking for categorizations such as "genuine leather" will help you to select the products that will stand the test of time.
Do Not Hesitate to Haggle
Depending on the store, you may find success in haggling down the prices. This is particularly true for mom and pop stores as opposed to national chains. Shoppers also find their luck improves if they are negating a price on an item that is simply damaged. Or you can consider offering to pay a bundle price for multiple items. You will quickly learn what thrift stores in your area welcome price negotiating.
Get the most out of your thrift shopping adventures by mastering this learning curve. The time and effort that you put into this endeavor will be worth it when you compare the prices to the usual outlets.
