It’s that time of year again. As the weather warms, the number of garage sales, yard sales, tag sales, book sales, and flea markets increase almost exponentially. And in this economy, with everyone looking for bargains, shopping at these venues is even more appealing. Whether you’re looking for children’s clothes, books and CDs, yard and garden equipment, collectibles, or odds and ends to furnish a first apartment or to send to college with your child in the fall, you can find wonderful items in great condition for a fraction of what you would pay at a store.
As an avid garage “saler,” I have found the following tips helpful in making the entire process more enjoyable. The more enjoyable it is, the more successful you are likely to be in finding the treasures you seek.
1. Know your budget.
Before you set out, know exactly how much you can. It is easy to spend more than you intend to spend.
2. Identify what you want to find.
Are you looking for children’s clothing? Books? CDs? A picnic basket? A racketball racket? A seed spreader? A chest for the basement playroom? Make a list of what you need and what you want.
3. Note sizes, measurements, and colors.
For clothing, have sizes and measurements. Sometimes, tags in garments are not readable or are missing. If you have the measurements, you can use a tape measure to check before you buy. If you are looking for furniture or artwork, knowing the size of the area in which you will place it will let you know if something will fit or not.
4. Plan your attack.
Decide where you are going. Use a map to determine the best route to save time and money (gas). Use the newspaper ads to determine the best locations for what you are trying to find. In urban/suburban areas, the zip codes of the sales can be used to determine if the sale is in an older part of town or a newer area. If you are looking for antiques and collectibles, the older areas may yield more finds. If you are looking for newer furniture and contemporary items, newer areas may be better locations.
5. Dress appropriately and be comfortable.
Wear clothing you don’t mind getting dirty (some vendors do not do a good job of cleaning the things they are selling). Take a jacket or sweater in case the weather changes. Wear a hat, preferably one with a wide brim, to protect your face and neck from the sun. Wear sturdy shoes that give you good support. Don’t forget the sunglasses.
6. Use sunscreen.
Don’t forget to put some on the back of your neck and your ears. Remember to reapply frequently.
7. Leave your purse at home.
Use a fanny pack or wear clothing with pockets that close securely (zippers, buttons, or snaps). Purses get in the way and also easy targets for theft. Keep the fanny pack turned to the front to access compartments easily.
8. Carry only the essentials with you.
Money. Your budget amount in small bills ($1s and $5s are most useful) and some small change (quarters and a few dimes) plus what you may need for food, drink, and gas.
One or two checks. Do not bring the whole checkbook.
One credit card. This is for emergencies or large items. Commercial vendors at flea markets, antique malls, and other such venues often take credit cards. Just stay within your budget.
Insurance cards and auto club card, in case of emergencies.
Aspirin or other pain relief medication and any other medications you are required to take during the day.
Hand sanitizer wipes.
Tape measure.
Cell phone, fully charged.
9. Have boxes and packing material with you.
Have a supply of plastic grocery bags or reusable totes to place items in when you purchase them. Not all venues have bags for your treasures. Stow your items carefully in your car. If they are breakable, use the packing material to wrap them individually and place them in one of the boxes to keep them from breaking. Have a roll of duct tape to ensure the bottoms of the boxes are tightly secured.
10. Take care of your creature comforts.
Take a small cooler with cold water, soda, and snacks. These can be lifesavers when you there are few places to stop for refreshments.
The most important tip is to have fun! When money is tight, going to flea markets and garage sales can be entertaining, even when you don’t buy anything.
