Seven Steps for Savvy Thrift Store Shopping

Everyone likes to save money and with the economy faltering, it's more important than ever right now.

One of the best ways to save money is to buy used items at local thrift stores, but how can you make sure you're getting good value for your hard-earned dollars?

Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your thrift store shopping trip.

1. Make a list of items you are looking for.

The goal of thrift store shopping is to buy used items at a cheaper price than buying them new at a store. Write down the items you will be looking for. It's easy to forget or overlook something if you haven't written it down. My family members will tell me items they are looking for, so I include those on my list.

If you don't see an item you are looking for, don't be afraid to ask if there is one in the stock room. Most thrift stores have more items than they have room for on the sales floor - everything else is stored in a back room. So don't be afraid to ask for a specific item - it might be back there.

2. Have in mind your top price for an item.

When I shop at thrift stores, I generally never spend more than $3-5 on an item, unless it is in especially good shape or I know for a fact it is worth more. For example, I know that at one retail store in my area, I can buy a brand new pair of jeans for my son for less than $10. At one thrift store I shop, jeans can be priced anywhere from $4.95 to $9.95. The price at that store usually isn't worth it for worn jeans, when I can buy them brand new for just a little bit more money.

3. Ask to try out electronic items and carry assorted batteries with you.

Examine closely all items that require electricity or batteries. Ask store personnel to plug in items so you can verify that they work. Pop in some batteries and see if the item works. If store personnel won't accomodate your request, pass on that item.

4. Closely examine all items before buying.