Thrifting 101: Top Places to Score Secondhand Treasures

Ready to transform your shopping game? Whether you're hunting for vintage gems, sustainable fashion, or unique home decor, thrifting offers a world of possibilities. It's not just about saving money—it's about the thrill of the hunt, the joy of discovery, and the stories behind every find.

If you’ve already explored the THRIFTING 101: Best Days and Times to Thrift Secondhand Treasures from our Thrifting 101 series, you’re equipped with the tools for a successful thrifting adventure. Now, it’s time to map out where to put those skills to work!

This guide is your ultimate thrifting roadmap, spotlighting the top places to score incredible secondhand treasures. From budget-friendly thrift stores to high-end vintage boutiques, we’ll uncover the best spots to fuel your thrifting passion.

Ready to combine your know-how with these hidden gem destinations? Let’s go treasure hunting!

1. Thrift and Charity Shops

Thrift and charity shops: where else can you score a vintage fur coat for $20!? Paired with rosaries on a mannequin and it become the perfect statement piece.

Examples: Salvation Army, Goodwill

What to Expect: Thrift stores are often the gateway to secondhand shopping—they’re easy to find, affordable, and welcoming to beginners. Operated by nonprofits, these stores feature affordable goods like clothing, furniture, and home decor. Proceeds support charitable causes, so you’re shopping for a good reason!

Pros: Budget-friendly, convenient locations, frequent inventory turnover, relaxed shopping experience, supports charitable causes.

Cons: Inconsistent inventory, variable pricing, crowded due to popularity.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

⭐Overall Selection, ⭐Overall Price, ⭐Overall Ease, ⭐Overall Accessibility, ⭐Overall Treasure Potential

Why Try It?: Looking for a low-pressure, affordable way to start thrifting?

Thrift stores and charity shops are the perfect first step for beginner thrifters. The biggest shopping obstacle is inconsistent inventory. However, the casual, no-fuss browsing experience is simply unmatched. The ability to turn it into a fun social outing with friends adds to the overall level of ease.

My Take:

Personally, popular thrift chains like Goodwill are in my top three favorite ways to shop secondhand.

Partly because I happen to live less than a mile from one of the best Goodwill locations in my area, making it impossibly convenient.

Mostly, I gravitate to them because they’re like the HomeGoods and T.J.Maxx of the thrift world—a constant flow of merchandise, overflowing shelves, and the thrill of the hunt. Sure, the prices can be a bit high SOMETIMES, but it’s still cheaper than the alternatives.

That said, throw together a list of thrift stores and charity shops, call a friend, and grab some coffee. You’ve got an epic thrift date with your bestie. Suddenly, it becomes more about the adventure and memory-making than the shopping itself.

2. Consignment, Resale Shops, and Boutiques

Consignment boutiques: where you’re not just paying for the clothes—you’re paying for the curated vibes. Worth it? You decide.

Examples: Plato’s Closet, Uptown Cheapskate

What to Expect: Once you’ve gotten comfortable with thrift stores, you might find yourself curious about more curated options. Consignment and resale shops offer an elevated secondhand shopping experience with higher-quality inventory—but at a price. These stores feature secondhand items, some sold on consignment, offering a curated selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods.

Pros: High-quality inventory, boutique-like shopping, potential for discounts, opportunity to sell your items, curated collections.

Cons: Higher prices, smaller selection, less convenient locations, irregular hours, limited deals compared to traditional thrift stores.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5)

⭐Overall Ease, ⭐Overall Accessibility

Why Try It?: Curious about a more polished secondhand shopping experience?

Consignment and resale shops are perfect if you’re looking for quality items and a more curated shopping experience. However, expect higher prices compared to traditional thrift stores, with a much smaller selection.

My Take:

In all honesty, consignment and resale shops are a no-go for me as far as secondhand shopping is concerned.

They carry similar merchandise to most major thrift stores, just at a significantly higher starting price point. I don’t know about you, but I’m not in the business of giving my money away. Not to mention, with the development of online resale sites, consignment shops are becoming all but obsolete.

3. Unique and Specialty Secondhand Shops

Pawn shops: the place to score oddly specific treasures you didn’t know you needed—because who else sells gold chains and vintage typewriters?

Examples: Pawn Shops, Upcycled and Repurposed Stores

What to Expect: If you’re searching for something out of the ordinary, specialty shops like pawn shops or upcycled furniture stores are worth exploring. They may require a little patience, but the rewards can be worth it. These shops specialize in unique items like jewelry, electronics, tools, and repurposed furniture. Expect a one-of-a-kind selection and often negotiable prices.

Pros: Discounted specialty items, unique finds, negotiable pricing, less crowded, focused inventory.

Cons: Limited variety, unpredictable pricing, niche-specific inventory, irregular hours, often requires expertise to spot value.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐⭐☆☆☆(2/5)

⭐Overall Ease, ⭐Overall Accessibility,

Why Try It?: Have you ever seen a show like Pawn Stars and had it peek your curiosity?

I’ll be honest, you’re probably not going to see a lot of thrifters showcasing their pawn shop finds. They just don’t cater to the thrifting masses with their lack of inventory diversity. However, if you’re on the lookout for unique, discounted jewelry, pawn shops might be exactly what you’re looking for. The selection can be hit-or-miss, but if you’re willing to hunt, these stores can offer fantastic finds.

My Take:

I’ve been to a pawn shop a time or two, but they certainly aren’t establishments I frequent.

They typically don’t carry much of anything I’m interested in. And honestly, the atmosphere is always a little off. Everything about them screams crime TV.

I don’t know. I’ll rummage through the dusty attics and moldy basements of the deceased, but there is something about buying the pawned property of the living I just don’t vibe with. Some might argue that their charm lies in the unpredictability, and certainly to each their own. Chalk ‘my take’ on this one up to personal preference.

4. Thrift Malls

Thrift malls: where the selection is endless, the treasures are stunning, and the price tags just might require a cosigner and a 72 month payment plan.

Examples: Flea Markets, Antique Malls

What to Expect: Ready to take your treasure hunting to the next level? Thrift malls combine the thrill of exploration with the convenience of a one-stop shop. A collection of smaller shops or individual vendors under one roof, offering a wide variety of items, often with different themes or focuses.

Pros: Wide variety of items, themed sections for organization, fun for all-day shopping, potential for unique finds, great for group outings.

Cons: Overwhelming size, inconsistent pricing, less common than standalone stores, can feel chaotic for beginners, variable quality.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)

⭐Overall Selection, ⭐Overall Ease, ⭐Overall Treasure Potential

Why Try It?: Ready to dive into an all-day treasure hunt?

Thrift malls make the perfect all-day experience if you’re seriously in the mood to explore. This is your one-stop shop for a no-fuss thrift date with your bestie. A solo adventure might feel overwhelming to newcomers due to the sheer size and volume of these places. However, for those willing to take the time and do a little haggling, there are plenty of treasures to score.

My Take:

I’ve wandered the never-ending outdoor booths of Shipshewana and explored the vast indoor flea markets of Orlando on many occasions. I even spent an afternoon wandering through the largest flea market in the United States, located in none other than Texas.

Taking an afternoon to wander aimlessly through a flea market or antique mall is an amazing experience. There’s delicious food to be eaten, treasures to be found, and memories to be made. These places aren’t meant to be a quick stop—they’re a destination, where core memories are made among friends and family alike.

5. Antique and Vintage Stores

Antique and vintage stores: where you’ll find a fraction of the selection of an antique mall—but the same outrageous prices.

Examples: Local Antique Shops, Vintage Clothing Stores

What to Expect: Antique and vintage stores offer a unique experience for shoppers who love quality craftsmanship and historical charm. However, they cater to a specific crowd, so it’s important to know what kind of pricepoint you’re getting into. Specializing in rare, often historical items, antique and vintage stores offer one-of-a-kind pieces with a focus on quality craftsmanship.

Pros: One-of-a-kind items, high craftsmanship, potential investment pieces, historical charm, curated inventory.

Cons: Expensive, limited selection, requires knowledge to assess value, time-intensive, less suitable for budget-conscious shoppers.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)

⭐Overall Selection, ⭐Overall Ease, ⭐Overall Treasure Potential

Why Try It?: Love the idea of uncovering historical treasures?

Antique and vintage stores are fascinating to browse. That said, you’ll be hard-pressed not to overpay. These aren’t establishments set up with penny-pinching, budget-conscious shoppers in mind. Instead, they cater to those looking for specific, high-value pieces and willing to pay a premium to avoid the legwork of sourcing items themselves.

My Take:

I’m never opposed to spending an afternoon wandering around an antique store or vintage shop gathering inspiration.

Honestly, they’re a hoarder’s dream and my version of a living Pinterest board. But they’re too damn expensive, and ya girl’s cheap.

So, you might catch me snapping photos and taking notes, but nothing more. If I see something I like, I’ll add it to my thrift wishlist and source it myself—either from a thrift store, estate sale, or auction.

6. Community-Based Sales

6.1 Auctions

Auctions: my secret weapon for snagging treasures like this ornate frame—because bidding wars are the easiest way to win big without spending big.

What to Expect: Auctions are online or live events where items are sold to the highest bidder. They often feature a diverse mix of goods, including antiques, collectibles, and vintage treasures, with formats ranging from in-person to online bidding.

Pros: Thrilling atmosphere, wide variety of items, potential for excellent deals, great for high-value finds, competitive excitement.

Cons: Unpredictable pricing, competitive bidding, time-intensive events, limited preview options, steep learning curve for beginners.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

⭐Overall Selection, ⭐Overall Price, ⭐Overall Accessibility, ⭐Overall Treasure Potential

Why Try It?: Ever thought about bidding your way to incredible finds?

Auctions are perfect for thrill-seekers who love the excitement of bidding wars. They’re a fantastic way to find unique or high-value items, but the fast-paced environment can be intimidating for beginners. With a little preparation, though, they’re an unforgettable experience.

My Take:

Auctions are my absolute favorite way to shop the secondhand market. I tend to lean into online auctions, but I do love the thrill of an in-person bidding war.

In the interest of transparency, even though auctions are my favorite way to shop, I still consider them to be a bit of a coin toss.

Some days, you walk away with everything you wanted for less than you expected. Other times, you’ll walk away empty-handed because EVERYONE wanted EVERYTHING you did.

While they are certainly a favorite among the older crowd, I rarely see anyone millennial age or younger throwing their hat in the ring. This leads me to believe auctions might be one of the most underutilized secondhand resources out there.

Either way, auctions offer a thrill unlike any other secondhand shopping experience. You’ll know what I mean the first time you win a bidding war—trust me!

6.2 Barn Sales

Barn sales: where you’ll find stunning furniture with prices so outrageous you’d think the barn came with it.

What to Expect: Prefer a slower pace? Barn sales are perfect for those who love rustic charm and rural adventures. Barn sales are local events held in rural or semi-rural settings, often featuring vintage, antique, or secondhand goods. These sales tend to have a rustic charm and attract treasure hunters looking for unique finds.

Pros: Unique atmosphere, great for antique furniture, rustic charm, treasure-hunting experience, usually local and accessible.

Cons: Niche-specific inventory, higher prices, infrequent events, poorly advertised, requires planning to locate.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5)

⭐Overall Ease, ⭐Overall Treasure Potential

Why Try It?: Do you enjoy the idea of hunting for treasures in a rustic, rural setting?

Barn sales are typically geared toward two distinct groups of people: those who love old tools and lawn equipment, and those who love antique furniture and old junk. They’re a fun experience, but their infrequency and lack of advertising can make them hard to find. Patience and planning are key for beginners.

My Take:

Barn sales are one of my favorite, albeit underrated, ways to shop for antique items.

I imagine this is in part because good barn sales don’t come around often, which is probably why they don’t get the same hype as estate sales and auctions. I also imagine it’s because many barn sales are run by collectors, meaning the prices reflect collector pricing.

So, while I think barn sales are underrated, it’s not uncommon for them to be the most expensive shopping option of all.

6.3 Estate Sales

Estate sales: where patience pays off. Unless you want to pay absurd prices and navigate insane crowds, it might better to wait for half-off day and cross your fingers hoping there is some good stuff left.

What to Expect: Estate sales bring a sense of nostalgia, letting you explore decades of style and history in a single location. Estate sales are organized to liquidate the belongings of a household, often featuring high-quality furniture, antiques, and collectibles. These sales usually attract collectors and thrifters alike.

Pros: Wide variety of goods, high-quality items, potential for unique finds, online previews available, discounts toward the end of sales.

Cons: Competitive environment, emotionally charged setting for some, high starting prices, often crowded, requires flexibility with timing.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

⭐Overall Selection, ⭐Overall Ease, ⭐Overall Accessibility, ⭐Overall Treasure Potential

Why Try It?: Looking to explore a treasure trove of unique items?

Estate sales are the perfect opportunity to hone in on merchandise matching your aesthetic. Since you can preview estate sale photos online, you can be more selective with your attendance. Attending in-person estate sales can act as a stepping stone into online auctions.

My Take:

Estate sales are one of my favorite ways to shop for secondhand items.

Mostly because when you’re walking through someone’s home, it’s like walking into a time capsule. Decades’ worth of furniture and fashion are at your fingertips. There’s no shortage of oddities to be seen or collectibles to be found.

It pays to secure the first look at merchandise by shopping early. However, there’s no better deal than those that can be made in the last few hours. As estate sales reach a close, it’s not uncommon for prices to drop to well over 50%. Sellers are motivated to clear out anything left behind, making it the perfect time to hone your price-haggling skills.

6.4 Garage/Yard Sales

Garage sales? Not really part of my apartment curation strategy. But hey, if awkward yard haggling helps you curate your dream apartment, you do you!

What to Expect: Garage and yard sales are informal events where homeowners sell their secondhand goods directly from their property. Items range from household goods and clothing to furniture and toys.

Pros: Ultra-low prices, opportunity to haggle, locally convenient, casual atmosphere, great for spontaneous shopping.

Cons: Limited selection, inconsistent quality, weather-dependent, awkward interactions with sellers, decreasing popularity.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

⭐Overall Price

Why Try It?: Want to score bargains close to home?

Garage sales are the classic way to shop secondhand. They’re perfect for bargain hunters who don’t mind a bit of unpredictability. If you’re looking for a fun little weekend activity, it might be worth zipping around the neighborhood with your bestie.

My Take:

Garage and yard sales were all the rage while I was growing up. However, in recent years, I’ve noticed a significant decline in their popularity.

Realistically, this decline is likely due to the increase in online resale shops and marketplaces. More and more people are opting to sell gently used items online through resale websites like Poshmark.

I’ve also noticed these sales often lack the friendly demeanor they once had. I don’t know if we chalk it up to a generational gap or a loss of human connection. Regardless, these shopping interactions can have a seriously awkward undertone.

So, even though there might be bargains to be had, garage sale-ing has mostly become a no-go for me.

7. Pop-Up Shops

Pop-up shops? I’m no expert, but hey, if I stumble across any, I might just dabble.

Examples: Vintage Pop-Ups, Local Markets

Looking for a trendy, event-based shopping experience? Pop-up shops are a fun way to explore curated collections and discover one-of-a-kind items.

What to Expect: Temporary secondhand shops that often feature curated collections or specific types of items. These shops are usually only open for a limited time, often at events or markets.

Pros: Trendy vibe, curated collections, unique items, often local and community-focused, exciting shopping experience.

Cons: Higher prices, short-term availability, location-dependent, limited inventory, often more of an activity than a thrifting experience.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

⭐Overall Ease

Why Try It?: Interested in a trendy, curated shopping experience?

Pop-up shops offer a fun and unique shopping experience, especially if you’re looking for something specific or want to experience the latest trends in secondhand fashion.

My Take:

To be honest, pop-up shops are one area I don’t have much of an opinion on. I’m not a frequent attendee of these types of events. I tend to chalk them up to more of an activity-based event than a true thrifting experience.

8. Online Marketplaces

$7 at an auction, $150 on Facebook Marketplace? Call me cheap, call me frugal, call me anything but a sucker—I’m here for deals, not donations.

Examples: Facebook Marketplace

What to Expect: Platforms where buyers and sellers can connect to buy and sell secondhand items, often offering local pickup options and a wide variety of goods.

Pros: Convenient, wide variety of items, local pickups available, great for time-sensitive purchases, often includes seller reviews.

Cons: High competition for good deals, safety concerns with meetups, inconsistent item quality, limited return options, occasional scams.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐⭐⭐☆ ☆(3/5)

⭐Overall Selection, ⭐Overall Accessibility, ⭐Overall Treasure Potential

Why Try It?: Searching for something specific or time-sensitive?

Online marketplaces are perfect for finding great deals locally, but you have to act fast! If you’re willing to take some precautions, they can be a really great way to score specific or time-sensitive pieces. For example, if you’re looking for a specific china pattern to use for hosting during Christmas.

My Take:

Listen, I know a lot of people who swear by Facebook Marketplace. So my take is probably a bit controversial. That said, I don’t do sketchy marketplace meetups. A little because the prices are too high, and a lot because the world is full of crazies. Oh, and I don’t have a Facebook.

Anything I might feel inclined to buy from an online marketplace I can eventually find at an auction. That’s my prerogative—But you do you Boo.

9. Secondhand Websites

Remember what I said about $7 auctions vs. $150 Facebook Marketplace? Same energy here: $8.99 thrifted Sam Edelman boots vs. $75 on Poshmark. Source yourself and save!

Examples: Poshmark, eBay

What to Expect: Virtual secondhand stores where you can browse and purchase pre-owned items, including clothing, accessories, and home goods.

Pros: Accessible from anywhere, diverse inventory, search filters for customization, seller ratings add trust, great for rare finds.

Cons: Shipping costs, potential delays, sizing inconsistencies, markup from resellers, limited return policies.

Beginner-Friendly: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

⭐Overall Selection, ⭐Overall Ease, ⭐Overall Accessibility, ⭐Overall Treasure Potential

Why Try It?: Prefer the convenience of shopping from home?

Treat online websites similarly to online marketplaces. They’re a great resource for locating specific or time-sensitive pieces. Unless you’re looking for a more traditional secondhand shopping experience, online sites offer convenience and variety without leaving your home.

My Take:

I’ve actually used Poshmark to buy and sell merchandise. That said, I can honestly say I’ve done significantly more selling than buying.

The buy-to-sell ratio is by design. I’m a bargain shopper through and through. That means I’m ALWAYS looking to score the best deal! Online resale websites aren’t it…most of the time.

The reseller community has grown quite large in recent years. They’re buying and selling to turn a profit. Where are they buying? Thrift stores, estate sales, auctions, other people—anywhere they can get something cheap. Where are they selling? Antique stores, online marketplaces, and resale websites—anywhere they can mark up their inventory and find someone willing to pay.

To be clear, I have no issue with resellers. It’s a tough world out there, and I respect the hustle.

I’m simply saying I’m a bargain shopper. As one, I’m not interested in paying markup prices. I would rather go to the source and score the deals myself.

Are You Ready to Level Up Your Thrifting Game?

Are you ready to level up your thrifting game? My curated is proof that if you’re willing to thrift smart and dream bigger you can make transformative magic happen!

You’ve got the where—now let’s talk about the how. Sure, thrift stores, estate sales, auctions, and pop-up shops are treasure troves—but some are easier to navigate than others.

Ready to uncover why thrifting might be the first stepping stone in your secondhand shopping adventures over estate sales and auctions? The next blog in the series, THRIFTING 101: Why Thrifting May Be Easier Than Estate Sales And Auctions breaks it all down for you—no paddle or white gloves required. I’ll have you ready to grab your bestie, your coffee, and maybe a shopping cart in no time.

And now, spill the tea: Are you team thrift store, estate sale, or auction? Do you keep your go-to spots on lock, or dish it out like you’re Oprah in the 90s? Join our community of thrifting besties and drop your thoughts in the comments below!