Essentials Every Thrifter Needs
Measuring Tape
Ditch the guessing game and pack your tape measure to ensure the fit of your finds! Make sure to take your own measurements before you head out: some of my favorite to have on hand are my bust, waist, and hip measurements. Even if a thrift store happens to have dressing rooms, it’s usually way faster to simply measure on the go!
BOLO List
To stay focused at the thrift store, it helps to have a BOLO (Be On the Look Out) list of items you’re hoping to find. Thrift stores can be overwhelming places and it’s all too easy to get tempted by every interesting thing you find. Checking in with a list focuses your search to certain areas of the store and keeps you from spending all your money on things you don’t need.
Phone + Internet
Use your phone to check comps (aka price comparisons) on your finds, to make sure you’re getting a good deal and the store’s not overcharging for something, especially if you’re going to resell. This happens more and more with big box stores like Goodwill and Savers. Plus you’ll need GPS to look up new thrift stores to hit.
Water and snacks!
Sometimes I catch myself with low blood sugar halfway through a thrifting marathon and realize I haven’t eaten anything or drank any water all day. Don’t be me! Pack a little bag of snacks and a bottle of water to keep you fueled so you can make good decisions and have a great time.
Cash Reserve
It’s always good to have a little cash stashed away for those mom and pop thrift stores that still only accept cash. These often end up being the places with the best stuff too. There’s nothing worse than finding a cart full of amazing things, only to realize you can’t pay for them.
Reusable Bags
Don’t get caught at the thrift store without a bag. You never know when you’ll find the haul of your life and wish you’d brought that big ‘ol blue IKEA bag to carry away all your finds. Bringing reusable bags with you is so much better for the environment than getting plastic bags, and some stores don’t even give them out anymore. I’ve learned these lessons the hard way so you don’t have to.
