Thrifting is a skill that involves an eye for detail, creativity, and knowing where to find great deals.

Fashion-forward Gen Z and budget-savvy Millennials have wholeheartedly embraced thrift shopping, turning it into an ultimate trend redefining our shopping habits.

But guess what? There’s a secret world of thrift store hacks waiting to be revealed – tricks that will take your savings game to a whole new level and leave you with much more money in your pocket.

Here are 11 thrift store shopping hacks you’ll wish you knew sooner.

Donate for a Discount

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Many thrift stores like the Salvation Army offer discounts to patrons in return for donating an item. Try donating a few things today for extra savings at the register.

Sale and Discount Days

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Thrift stores have designated sale days where certain items are discounted by up to 50%.  There are even discount days for the elderly, military, and college students. Take advantage of these opportunities to maximize your savings.

Weekday Shopping

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Shopping during the week just got less expensive and much less crowded. Instead of shopping on the weekend, you’ll have more time and space to browse items at your own pace and find the best deals.

Arrive Early

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As the saying goes, the early bird gets the worm. Arriving early at the thrift store lets you get first and best picks. All the valuable items get taken quickly and early. So be the first one there so that you can be guaranteed the best stuff.

Negotiate the Price

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Carefully examine the items you’re interested in and see if there is an opportunity to negotiate the price. Check for stains, missing buttons, loose threads, or damage. Point out your reason for negotiating and counter with a reasonable offer.

Join the Mailing List

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Some thrift stores will email their subscriber list exclusive discounts, special offers, coupons, and early access to sales. Sign up to take advantage of these perks.

Think Outside the Box

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It’s important to keep an open mind while thrift shopping and look beyond the item in front of you. Try to look past the surface of a piece of thrifted item and see its true bones.

If you find something that can be repaired, upcycled, or repurposed, then the product might have the potential to be something greater. Use your creative eye and seek out a unique design. You would be surprised at what a fresh coat of paint can do or a thorough cleaning.

The possibilities are endless for upcycling thrifted pieces.

Explore Different Locations

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Not all thrift stores are created the same. Thrift stores in specific neighborhoods may receive unique donations and designer brands. Make a plan and shop around. Check out stores in areas to increase your chances of finding high-end luxury and unique vintage items.

Look Often

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Thrift stores replenish their inventory daily. Consistent store visits are key, as items that make it to the sales floor will quickly get snatched up by the next eager shopper. By frequenting these establishments regularly, you increase your chances of scoring remarkable finds before they’re gone.

Shop on Restocking Days

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Shop on the days your local thrift store restocks so you can get the first pick on items placed on the sales floor. With this tactic, you can find hidden gems that no one else can access.

Bring Packing Supplies

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When heading to the thrift stores, bring your packing supplies. Pack cardboard boxes, bags, bungee cords, and newspaper in your car beforehand.

This way, you can safely transport any fragile items you purchase without worrying about them breaking on the way home. Additionally, clear out your car’s trunk to ensure there’s enough space for any larger items you may find.

14 Best Places to Buy Cheap Furniture

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Furniture plays a vital role in our daily lives, offering both comfort and functionality while contributing to the aesthetics of our living spaces. However, shopping for furniture can be challenging when it surpasses your budget. Fortunately, there’s a way to navigate this. Here are the 14 best places to shop for cheap furniture.

14 Best Places to Buy Cheap Furniture

10 Items You Should Avoid Buying Used

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Opting for secondhand shopping at thrift stores and garage sales can help you save money. However, buying items that are used doesn’t always prove beneficial. In fact, there’s a potential for certain used items to carry health or safety implications, and others might not be in good condition. Here are ten items that you should avoid buying used.

10 Items You Should Avoid Buying Used

25 Online Thrift Stores for the Best Second-Hand Shopping

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Thrift shopping has expanded beyond department stores, garage sales, and consignment shops. Many thrift stores now offer a convenient way to shop their items online.  From retro dresses and vintage accessories to timeless denim and statement stand-out pieces, here are some of the best online thrift stores to help keep your wardrobe fresh and unique.

25 Online Thrift Stores for the Best Second Hand Shopping

15 Best Places to Sell Used Furniture Online

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Selling your used furniture online is a smart move to both earn money from your old belongings and minimize your environmental impact. Selling your used furniture is a practical step towards sustainability, all while boosting your finances. Whether you’re aiming to declutter your space or explore a side gig, here are the top online platforms to list your old furniture and tap into its hidden value.

15 Best Places to Sell Used Furniture Online

Here’s 16 Responsible Ways to Get Rid of Old Books

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Books have the power to transport us, stimulate our minds, and offer meaningful insights.  While books hold value and significance in our lives, for many book lovers, letting go of cherished books can be a sentimental journey. If you’re a book lover facing a stack of books to part with, there’s an environmentally responsible way to handle it. Here are ten responsible and eco-friendly ways to recycle and repurpose your old reading materials, giving new life to the pages and minimizing paper waste.

Don’t Trash Those Old Books. Here’s 10 Responsible Ways to Get Rid of Them

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Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.

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