How To Thrift Like a Pro? 9 Must-Know Thrifting Tips For Beginners

Thrifting has become so common today that almost everyone is doing it. You have probably seen Instagram reels or TikTok videos of people showcasing the items they thrifted or picking unique items for a fraction of the price. If you are new to this kind of shopping, it helps to plan well and keep an open mind when visiting a thrift store.

1. Choose the Right Thrift Store

Before heading out to thrift some items, take time to research what the stores in your area are offering. Read their reviews online and follow them on social media to get a picture of what you will find on their shelves.  Whether you are looking for a store that specializes in clothing or home décor, knowing what to expect will help you plan better.

You can also spend this time reviewing inspirational images on Instagram and Pinterest. This will familiarize you with the specific type of pieces to look out for or how you can style them after purchase.

2. Know What You Are Looking For

You are more likely to be overwhelmed if you just enter a thrifty store without knowing what you are looking for. While you can spend time exploring the items being displayed in the store, knowing what you want will help to narrow down your search. It will also make your thrifting experience more enjoyable than just walking around.

3. Visit the Thrifty Store at the Right Times

Weekends are usually the best times for thrifting. Most stores are busy and usually take advantage to showcase their best items. Going to the store early in the morning can increase your chances of finding unique items before someone else does.

Be sure to bring a large bag since you do not what you are going to find. Keeping an old newspaper in the bags may also come in handy if you find breakable items during your trip.

4. Take Your Time to Explore the Items

You will usually find the best items tucked in somewhere within the thrift store. Rushing through will only make you miss on the good stuff, and not explore what the store has to offer. Taking your time to walk the aisle increases your chances of finding something great or worth taking home.

When you have enough time, repeat your steps and make a few laps around the store. You may find a true treasure tucked somewhere on the shelf that you did not notice in your first lap. After all, rushing will only make you take something because you saw it first and not necessarily the perfect match.

5. Take a Tactile Approach to Shopping

The biggest challenge you are likely to experience is distinguishing between quality and cheaply made items. To get the best items, consider utilizing your sense of touch. For instance, when thrifting for clothes walk around the aisle to feel different textures and weights. Get the feel of the linen, silk, or even 100% cotton items to make sure they will hold for long after the purchase.

6. Check for Items Online First

When you are looking for something specific, you have a higher chance of finding it online than combing through different thrift stores. Secondhand sites such as eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are a great place to start. You can even tailor your search with specific keywords to increase chances of finding the item or something closer to it.

7. Ask About Discounts

Some people think because you are thrifting, you should always pay full price. However, you will be amazed by how much discount you can receive when you ask. Some thrift stores offer regular coupons, especially when you donate items. Others offer specific types of offers such as items tagged with a certain color or a percentage discount for all sales on a certain day of the week.

8. Edit Your Cart Before Checkout

Editing your cart before checkout is one of the most important thrifting tips for beginners. After going around the thrift store picking the items that you like, ask yourself if all of them feel cohesive and match your style. Inspecting each item at this stage helps to make you that you buy only items that you really want. This is also the time to double-check the items for any scratches and chips since most thrift stores do not have a return policy.

9. Verify Characteristics like Dimensions Before Committing to a Purchase

Most thrift stores don’t have any return policies, and if they do, it can be tricky. To avoid buying something that you will never use, measure your space at home before going to the thrift store. Then, carry your tape measure to the thrifty store to check the dimensions as you shop. Also consider factors such as the item’s shape, material, and color to make sure it will fit where you want to use it.

Make Your First Thrifting Experience a Success

If you are planning for your thrift store trip, keep an open mind. Every item will be unique and will save you a lot of money. However, you never truly know what to expect. Therefore, keeping an open mind will help you see the items as the treasure they are.