How to Thrift to Save Money: A Guide to Smart Secondhand Shopping

You’ve probably seen the TikToks from creators showcasing their unbelievable secondhand finds. Designer bags, solid wood furniture, vintage items and even brand new clothes — all can be found at thrift stores for well under retail value.

And it’s a good thing, too. Costs are rising as inflation ticks up and tariffs on imported goods kick in. Recession chances are intensifying. If you haven’t already, now is probably the time to start hitting your local thrift stores.

Thrifting may be trendy these days, but it’s always been a cost-saving practice for Penny Hoarders. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned secondhand shopper, these tips will help you stretch your dollars further.

Why Thrifting Is a Smart Way to Save Money

Thrifting offers unbeatable value, especially when you consider how much you can save over time. Why spend $75 on a brand-new blazer for work when you can snag one for $5 at your local thrift store?

From kitchenware to books and beyond, secondhand items are often gently used or even brand new with original tags. Plus, you’re not just cutting costs. You’re sidestepping retail markups and keeping more cash in your pocket while reducing waste.

The sustainability factor is huge plus, but here at The Penny Hoarder, we love thrifting for the savings.

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Where to Thrift: Best Places to Score Deals

Finding thrift stores is as easy as Googling “thrift stores near me.” Here’s a look at some places you can find great secondhand goods.

National Chains:

• Goodwill
• The Salvation Army
• Habitat for Humanity ReStores

Don’t Overlook:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Church or other charity thrift shops
• Flea markets
• Estate sales
• Yard sales
• Library book sales

And if you’re looking to thrift from the comfort of your own home, check out our list of online flea markets.

What You Can Find at Thrift Stores (and What to Skip)

If you’ve ever been to a thrift store, you know you may need to sift through trash to find a treasure. Simply put: Not everything at the thrift store is worth buying. You can find some absolutely incredible deals on quality stuff, but there’s just as much junk.

Here are a few quick lists of great finds and things to skip.

Great Finds

• Clothes for everyday, work or special occasions
• Solid wood furniture and home décor
• Cookware, utensils and small appliances
• Books, DVDs and vinyl records
• Toys, board games and puzzles
• Craft and sewing supplies
• Brand-name and vintage fashion
• Unopened beauty products
• Retro electronics like cassette decks and record players
• Designer items like purses or shoes

What to Skip

• Used helmets or safety gear
• Mattresses and upholstered items with unknown histories
• Electronics you can’t test in-store
• Items with mold, rust or strong odors

How to Determine Quality (and Avoid Junk)

Buying quality is the key when thrifting. After all, wouldn’t you like to find items that will last a lifetime? Use this quick checklist while shopping:

• Clothing: Look for sturdy stitching, natural fibers and name-brand tags.
• Shoes: Check soles for wear and insoles for support.
• Furniture: Smell for mold, inspect joints and legs, avoid wobbly pieces.
• Electronics: Plug in and test if possible; avoid anything with frayed wires.
• Books and media: Check for missing pages or scratched discs.

Keep in mind that quality doesn’t necessarily mean perfection. If you’re handy, a little DIY touch-up (like polishing wood or sewing a loose button) can turn a fixer-upper into a gem.

How to Thrift Shop for Specific Needs

Say you’ve got a wedding to attend or need some new threads for a work conference. Maybe that sketchy leg on your coffee table has finally given up the ghost or you’re looking for some supplies for your newfound hobby. A thrift store is a great place to start. Here are some tips to help you score what you’re looking for.

Clothing

• Consider your closet’s sutainability: Look for versatile pieces and classic cuts.
• Plan for the future: Shop out-of-season for the best deals (think sweaters in summer).
• Check those tags: Designer labels can often be found hidden on the racks.

Furniture

• Materials matter: Solid wood beats particle board every time.
• Is it sturdy? Check drawers, doors and legs for stability.
• Don’t be afraid of a little DIY: Consider repainting or reupholstering to refresh a piece.

Hobbies and Crafts

• Check the craft area: Sewing patterns, knitting needles, art supplies and puzzles are common thrift store items and they’re usually cheap.
• Keep an eye out for musical instruments and sporting goods: Don’t forget to test before buying.

10 Thrifting Tips to Find Quality Items on a Budget

Ready to hit the thrifts? Keep these tips in mind to find what you’re looking for while sticking to your budget.

1. Check the tags: Look for name-brand or department store labels. Pay attention to fabric quality — natural fibers like wool and cotton typically last longer and feel better than synthetics.
2. Visit upscale neighborhoods: Thrift stores in wealthier areas often receive donations of high-end brands, furniture and new goods. It’s one of the easiest ways to find luxury for less.
3. Go early on discount days: Show up when stores open, especially on color tag sale days. You’ll have first pick of new items and score the biggest discounts. Listen to announcements at the stores, too. Sometimes, they have flash sales to clear certain kinds of inventory.
4. Inspect carefully: Hold clothing up to the light to check for stains or damage. Test zippers and buttons. For electronics or home goods, make sure everything works before you buy.
5. Sign up for loyalty programs: Some stores offer rewards or coupons for frequent shoppers. You might also get early notice of big sales.
6. Learn the color tag system: Many stores rotate discounts by tag color. Knowing what’s on sale can mean snagging a $10 item for $2.
7. Try things on: Sizes vary by brand and era. Use fitting rooms if they’re available or bring a tape measure to check dimensions.
8. Check the return policy: Some thrift stores offer exchanges or credit, especially for electronics or pricier items. Others have final sale policies, so ask before you buy.
9. Set a budget: It’s easy to overdo it when everything seems like a deal. Bring cash or use a set spending limit to stay on track.
10. Be patient and persistent: Thrifting is hit or miss. Go regularly, keep an open mind and enjoy the hunt. The more often you go, the better you’ll get at spotting value.

Final Thoughts: Why Thrifting Is More Than Just Saving Money

Thrifting isn’t just about stretching your dollars — though that’s a huge win. It’s also about making smarter, more intentional choices. Each thrifted purchase is a step toward cutting back on overconsumption, reducing waste and supporting a circular economy.

So the next time you hit up your local Goodwill or scroll through Facebook Marketplace, remember: You’re not just saving money — you’re making savvy, sustainable choices that benefit both your wallet and the planet.