Do you hear people talk about flea markets but seem unsure on how everything works? I am sharing how to score big at a flea market.
I had never really considered going to a flea market because I thought there would be nothing vintage worth looking for, boy was I wrong! Flea markets have turned into one of my favorite go to spots to find some great vintage pieces at really great prices. Our local flea markets didn’t seem like the best place to start but I decided to give them a try and I am so glad I did. I am going to tell you how to score big at a flea market.
How do I find a flea market
I searched flea markets near me and several popped up. Then I searched them out on Facebook to get the current hours and to make sure they were still in business. I discovered two really close to me. Make a list of local ones and ones that may be a little further away to try on a weekend. Most flea markets are open on the weekend but some are also on weekdays so that means you can try a few out.
When is the best time to go to a Flea Market
I like to get there as early as I can to when they open. The earlier you go the better chance you have of finding the good items before everyone else. Also some vendors may pack up and leave later in the day even before closing time. This might mean getting up early and grabbing that coffee to go. Our flea markets are on Saturday and Sunday. I have found great things on both days so don’t be afraid to go on either day. I think some different vendors could be there on both days.
What do I take to a Flea Market
Cash is the biggest thing to take with you to the flea market. Most vendors only accept cash and so it just makes it easier to shop. I also take a market tote or reusable shopping bag to hold all the small items I buy. Vendors don’t usually have bags to hold your items that you buy. Comfortable shoes because you may spend a lot of time walking depending on how big the market is. It is always good to have wipes in the car because some things are really dusty or dirty. I score sever old boxes that held dirty tools and so I needed a wipe to clean my hands more than once.
Can I haggle at a Flea Market
The answer is YES! The vendors almost expect it so don’t be afraid to ask if they might take a better price especially if you are buying more than one item. I like to bundle items to get a better deal. I usually don’t haggle if it already seems to be a really great price so keep that in mind too.
What Vintage Items do you Buy at a Flea Market
Oh goodness there are so many. I personally have found some great things and I will make a list for you…
- Crocks
- Vintage tins
- Old glass bottles
- Mason jars
- Crates
- Ironstone
- Rusty toolboxes
- Garden items
- Plants
- Vintage Postcards
- Old baskets
- Vintage Clothespins
- Vintage Pottery
- Tables and chairs
- Architectural salvage
- Grain sacks or old fabric
- Vintage toys
- Enamelware
- Old Books
- Vintage Art
- Whisk brooms
Some of my Flea Market Favorites
I have found some great items but I think an old ironstone pitcher for two dollars tops my list. Crocks, plants, and a cool old crate that I used as shelves were also great finds. I always look in booths that may look like they have a lot of little things because sometimes those are the ones that have the ironstone pieces for super cheap.
I hope you decide to go out to a flea market this weekend and enjoy yourself. Let me know if you do and if you find something great!
