Flea Market Shopping Tips

Flea market season is in full swing!  Having gone to my first flea market just two years ago, I am now officially addicted to them.  I love searching high and low for unique items for my home! Shopping a flea market can be a great experience, but if you’re not prepared, it can lead to frustration and a bad time.

 So I decided to share my best flea market shopping tips in hopes that it will help some of you novice flea market shoppers!

Flea Market Shopping Tip No. 1 – Clean Out Your Car

Before you head out for your flea market adventure, be sure to empty your trunk, remove any car seats (unless you’re bringing your small children with you), and put the back seats down if you’re feeling ambitious.  This way, when your shopping trip is over, you’ll be able to quickly pack everything into your car and avoid the hassle of moving things around when you’re hot and tired.

Flea Market Shopping Tip No. 2 – Wear Comfortable Shoes

I wore flip flops to my first flea market.  BAD!  Not only did my feet hurt from walking all over the place, but they got so dusty and dirty – it was disgusting.  Definitely wear comfortable (closed toe) shoes – your feet and back will thank you for it!

Flea Market Shopping Tip No. 3 – Bring Cash in Many Bill Sizes

Some flea market vendors are equipped to take credit cards, but many are not.  Make sure to have cash on hand so you don’t have to hit up the flea market ATM, where you will likely face high withdrawal fees.

Also, have many types of bills on hand.  If you haggle with a seller for a lower price on an item, the last thing you want to do is ask for change.  It’s definitely best to have a variety of bills in your pocket so that you can pay the exact amount.

Flea Market Shopping Tip No. 4 – Bring a Large Tote or Collapsible Wagon

Some of your flea market finds may be bulky and less than convenient to carry around.  If you’re very prepared, bring a collapsible wagon like this or personal shopping cart like this to cart your purchases around in.  Alternatively, a large canvas shopping tote like this is a good way to carry lightweight items with you as you shop.  Some flea market vendors may have plastic grocery bags for you to carry your purchased items in, but don’t bank on it.

Flea Market Shopping Tip No. 5 – Bring Water, Food, and Headache Medicine

Check the rules of the flea market you’re going to, but if you’re allowed to bring food and water inside, definitely do it.  Flea market shopping is draining and you’ll want to stay hydrated and fed (hey, nobody wants to deal with hunger-induced rage).  Also, if you’re prone to headaches like me, make sure to bring some Advil or other headache medicine with you.  Nothing kills the fun like a killer headache.

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