When you ask what the best time to go thrifting is, it can be quite an open-ended question. It can highly depend on many factors, from the area, local thrift store, time of the week, time of the day, etc.
Perhaps Monday and Tuesday are the most straightforward answer we could give you. This tends to hold up most of the time for a few different factors.
The weekend is usually the prime time for most people to donate second-hand clothing and other items such as furniture. This means Monday and Tuesday will be when these items will generally be in stock.
However, the answer is not just as simple as this. Many thrift stores operate differently depending on location. You even have to consider chain thrift stores that act as a chain store would.
This article will provide you with all of the necessary factors that come into play with this element of thrift store shopping.
Table of Contents
Know what the regulars know
A general rule to follow with specific thrift shops is to know the regulars’ opinions. For example, do the regulars swear that a particular day is perfect for clothes shopping?
The culture of thrift shopping has become vastly more popular since its inception. Therefore, it is only natural the consumers have checked out the unspoken rules. However, the community can be a valuable source of information, so do not neglect it.
The best day
Most thrift shoppers swear that Monday and Tuesday are the best days to thrift. This is because homeowners tend to donate the household items they no longer need on the weekend. This can be clothing, furniture, etc.
Due to this, most second-hand stores tend to sell the new stuff at the beginning of the week. This makes this a great time to shop!
Lastly, Saturday and Sunday tend to be the busiest days since most shoppers will be off work on those days.
Shop in the morning
This should go without saying. However, it can be easily overlooked. The earlier you get to the thrift store in the day, the better options for the good stuff you will have.
Preferably arrive when the store opens. Many thrift stores also tend to restock early, so make the most of this.
Sale days
Just like any other stores, thrift stores have sale days. They need to clear out items that aren’t being sold. This can be due to price etc. So these days at your local thrift store are excellent opportunities to bag yourself something nice.
Stop by during spring cleaning
Spring cleaning is the time of year when most people, regardless of location, will clear out their unwanted possessions. This means this time of the year is when donations tend to be more frequent. Thus unique merchandise arrives ready to be bought.
The best annual times to go thrifting
National holidays are the best go-to. They may be more crowded shopping days. However, you will certainly not regret it, whether it is garage sale leftovers, a huge new shipment, or any other means of stock. These days will have the best merchandise available at excellent prices.
The stuff available will match the holidays too! So go on Valentine’s Day, you’re sure to see some lovely items, perhaps adorned with hearts and other such symbols.
Christmas time? You better believe there will be some finely knit Christmas jumpers.
The rise of online thrift stores
Since its inception, thrift shopping has almost exclusively been an in-person experience. But, due to the ever-evolving capabilities of the internet, it has become possible to shop for second-hand items online.
I don’t need to tell you just how amazing this is. This is not only an absolute time-saver, but it also allows you to shop from the comfort of your home.
With the rise of online thrift shopping, certain stores have made a name for themselves.
Great online thrift stores
So you’re interested in checking out some online thrift stores. Here are a few fantastic international options to consider.
Oxfam
Oxfam is a well-known and highly respected store in the UK. They now have a website to suit all your needs. They cover most seasons and holidays and even have an option on the site to donate. A solid option to consider.
Swap
This store comes to you from the US. The store aims to provide designer quality items for around the $15 mark. So if you are looking to wear most of the latest trends, this store is undoubtedly an excellent place to start.
Real King Vintage
This store is situated in Australia. The store ships internationally and focuses on vintage clothing. Real King Vintage in an institution has a real variety of options to choose from. There are plenty of comfortable clothes as well as sporty picks too.
Wisi-Oi
This store has been making huge waves, especially in its international home, The heart of South Africa. With a clean website, the shop has so many options available.
Sustainable fashion and designer brands are sold at bargain prices. The company ships nationally and sticks to its high standards. The store even has instalment plans if needed.
Wisi-Oi pre-loved fashion is worth your time if you are native to South Africa or even if you are visiting.
Wrapping things up
Now that you have all the knowledge you need for the best times to thrift shopping, you are well on your way to securing fantastic items.
Remember, you need to do a little bit of research yourself with each store and marketplace. However, if you follow the guidelines and advice presented, you will succeed.
Don’t forget that online shopping is an option too. Start by reading our article on the up and coming vintage apps.
Lastly, get out there and see what is around. Find yourself some fantastic items and have fun doing it!