Have you ever shopped at a flea market? If you haven't I hope you will consider it because they are a great way to score good deals. Flea Markets used be geared solely toward used items and antiques. While you can still find those items today, you are going to find just as many new items. You can find everything and anything there – seriously.
1. Get Up Early – Arrive early and scope out the vendors. See who's selling what and how many.
2. Dress for Success – Dress for a lot of walking and being in the sun. Even if the flea market is indoors a lot of vendors set up outside too. There is nothing worse than making your shopping day miserable with uncomfortable clothes and shoes. Bring a tote bag along to pack your purchases. Rolling tote bags are fabulous if you have one!
3. Pack a Snack – Pack drinks and a snack along so you don't have to purchase food at the event. Food vendors at a flea market are not any cheaper than they are a fair. A deal isn't good anymore if you have to spend your savings on food!
4. Take a Partner Along – Take a friend a long so you have help getting your purchases to the car. Plus it's more fun to shop with a friend.
5. Brush Up Your Haggling Skills – Haggling or negotiating is a great way to get a better deal. Most are willing to negotiate their prices. Don't be afraid to offer less than asking price for an item. Ensure that your offer is fair and reasonable; don't offer them a buck for an item that you know is worth at least $20. That's rude!
6. Pay with Cash – Be prepared to pay cash for your purchases. While a lot of vendors do accept plastic; it's not a good negotiating tool.
7. Avoid Impulse Buys – Vendors have their popular items out front to draw you in. Once you stop they are going to do their very best to sell you something before you walk away. Don't give in to the sales pitch.
8. Shop Around – Shop around to see how many vendors are selling the same item you are looking for. If it's a popular item I can assure you more than one will have it. Compare prices to see which has the better deal then start negotiating.
9. Shop at the End of the Day – Vendors set up to sell things and they don't want to take back what they brought. Shopping at the end of the day will give you better leverage to negotiate. Save your big tickets items for the end of the day.
10. Know What You Are Buying – Flea markets are notorious for black market or fake name brand items. If the price seems to good to be true, it probably is. Know what you are buying so you aren't duped into buying something that isn't real.
Do you have any additional tips on how to score a good deal at flea markets?
Please share your tips with us in the comments below.
Photo Credit: programwitch
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Thanks for the tips! I love the flea market.
I found your blog through Follow be Back Tuesday! Have a great day!