Shopping and Finding Bargains at Goodwill and Other Vintage Stores

I am a Goodwill junkie. In fact, if I don't go often, I wonder what I may be missing out on. I would estimate that 90% of my clothing comes from the Goodwill and you would never know. I wear brand names, my kids wear brand names, and I pay about $1.29 per piece. There is nothing I love more than someone saying "I love that shirt, or "Where did you get that?, the answer is probably the Goodwill. To me, shopping at the Goodwill, or finding other vintage or thrift items is an exciting journey, I feel like I'm on a hunt or a quest. Yes, I take it that seriously. Not only can you find great bargains thrift shopping, you can also find some great items to sell on eBay if you're into that sort of thing. Many people wonder how I find these great deals because when they go, they don't find half the items that I do, so I will share some tips with you.

1. Visit Many Stores
This is the only way you'll find out which store is "hot" and which one is not. Virtually all medium size cities have a Goodwill and larger cities have vintage shops. Some stores are very small and others are extremely large. The bigger the store does not always mean, better items and better selection. Also, you need to take into consideration the type of area you are in as that will generally dictate the type of clothing you will find. For example, if you are in a college town, you will find most brands that you would find teenagers and young adults wearing. If you are in a nice little suburb, you will find more career wear and children's clothes and toys. With furniture, books and collectibles, it just boils down to being at the right store on the right day.

2. Visit Often
I know this sounds obvious, but if you don't go often, you can't find the deals. Merchandise is put out daily at the Goodwill, so just because you couldn't find your treasure that day, doesn't mean it might not be there next week. Some days you can visit and find absolutely nothing you are interested in and other days you feel as though you have stumbled upon a goldmine.