Tips and Tricks for Greener Garage Sale and Farmer’s Market Shopping

Tis the season! The season to shop local that is.

Of course, it’s always the season to shop local. But this time of year garage sales and farmer’s markets are out and operating at their fullest. Which means it’s the easiest time to take full advantage of shopping for amazing local and used goods.

If you’re new to the scene, I’ve got some recommendations for you to make this garage sale and market season your greenest yet.

Make a List

Have you ever gone grocery shopping without a list? Then ended up forgetting an essential item or buying way more than you need? It’s happened to all of us. This is why maybe the biggest mistake you can make while shopping garage sales or markets is going without a list. When you’re out browsing it’s easy to spend money on items you don’t really need, but a list can keep you on track. 

Before you head out, take a look at what you have at home and what you really need. This will help ensure you only spend money on items you really need and will use instead of having those items collect dust until you inevitably put them in your own garage sale.

Be Open to Spur of the Moment Finds

I know this goes against what I just said. But just because you have a list, doesn’t mean you have to follow it to the letter. 

If you’re out at the market and you see some peaches earlier than expected. Or if you’re out garage saling and spot the perfect replacement toaster, then be sure to grab it. The great part about both garage sales and markets is that there can be unexpected finds. Just consider your finds carefully so that they fit your lifestyle and don’t end up being an impulsive decisions.

Plan Ahead and Shop Early

You may not be a morning person. But on market days you should be. Arriving late means you risk a vendor running out of an item on your list. For that reason I always recommend heading out early. It also means you can beat the heat!

To help you get out the door quicker: prepare your list in advance, keep bags/wagon easily accessible, and put your good walking shoes at the door. There's nothing worse than cutting your shopping short because your feet hurt or your items are too heavy.

Some people do prefer to shop markets or garage sales in the afternoons. And there is something to be said for it. Since sometimes people offer deals as the day goes on – but it's a gamble!

Bring Cash

While most market vendors accept card payments, it’s still always best to bring cash. Paying with cash allows vendors to skip the payment processing fees which can make a big difference for a small business. And if you’re garage saling cash is absolutely essential – and make sure you bring small bills and change! This will help your day run smoother and ensure you don’t have to worry about a vendor accepting payment.

This also helps you stay on budget, if you run out of cash then your shopping is over for the day!

Bring Your Own Bags

Maybe I sound like a broken record – but in this case it’s more important than ever to bring your own bags. Many market vendors don’t have bags for you – and if they do they’re often flimsy single-use plastic. Rather than using unsustainable plastic, bring your own bags to carry all your purchases. And as a bonus, they won’t rip like the farmer’s market bags tend to. Bringing a backpack or wagon to hold your bags is also a must - those potatoes or gifts can get heavy awfully quick!

Bringing your own bag includes produce bags if you're buying fruits or veggies or anything else that might usually go in plastic.

Be Open to Conversation

One of the best parts of farmer’s markets and garage sales, at least for us extroverts, is the ability to chat with the people you meet. 

When you’re at a market, take the time to talk with the vendors – they’re the people who make the product and are going to be the most excited to tell you all about it! You never know what tips, tricks, and recommendations a vendor may share. And, they may even share a sample with you!

BONUS tip: make your entire trip green - walk, bike, or use transit to make your way to the market!

Love these tips? Check out our blog: Eco-Friendly Products for Every Adventure.