What?
Sometimes called a swap meet, a flea market is where a bunch of vendors gather to sell their goods.
Who?
The type of vendors and what they have for sale varies greatly from flea market to flea market. Some flea markets focus mainly on discounted new merchandise, while others only allow vintage and antique goods. You’ll also probably come upon plenty of used products from vendors cleaning out their house and garage. Most flea markets have a mix of new, vintage, and used.
Where?
It can be a little difficult to find local flea markets if you’re new to an area or just never been. One of the best websites to locate flea markets in your area is www.keysfleamarkt.com. It lists flea markets by state, along with the approximate number of vendors and type of merchandise available. Also ask around at your favorite thrift store; they may be able to tell you about their favorite flea market. If neither of those works, try checking out your local drive in movie theater or concert venue. These places usually have large parking lots that are ideal for flea markets. All of the flea markets I’ve been to have been held in a parking lot at either a drive in movie theater or concert venue!
When?
Nearly all flea markets are held on the weekend, usually on Sunday. Most start early in the morning (7-8am) and end in the early afternoon (2-3pm). In general you’ll find a better selection if you arrive early. However, some vendors may be less likely to negotiate in the morning. It’s up to you to decide what’s more important – price or selection. Other things to consider when deciding what time to arrive – weather, crowds and parking, and admission price. Some of the more popular flea markets, like the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena, charge more for early admission.
How?
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Come prepared. Unlike a department store, you cannot come back the next day so you need to be ready to purchase on the spot. Bring any important measurements and a small measuring tape. Also consider bringing a paint or color swatch if you’re working with a hard to coordinate color. Most vendors only accept cash, so save up your small bills (which vendors really appreciate!) or stop by the ATM on your way. Other essentials – a bag to carry your finds, comfy shoes for plenty of walking, and a friend to keep you company!
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Keep your eyes open and be ready to dig. Shopping at a flea market can be a little overwhelming simply because of the large amount of stuff, and that stuff is often less than organized. Be sure to scan all of the booths, even those that don’t seem to fit your style or what you’re looking for. Be willing to dig through boxes and always check out the sale tables! You’ll have to go through a lot of junk, but you’ll also probably find a treasure or two and at a great price.
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Inspect, and then inspect again. Most vendors don’t allow returns, so make sure to check out the merchandise before making a purchase. Look for any stains, rips, or tears. Check for any missing pieces. Test out any drawers or other moving parts. Something may seem like a good deal until you take a closer look and see it’s about to fall apart!
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Haggle! The flea market is one of the few places it’s appropriate, and even expected, to ask for a lower price. Of course be polite when asking. A vendor is going to be less likely to accept a lower price if you offend them by point out all of the product’s flaws. You’ll have the best luck negotiating a better price if you’re purchasing more than one item or it’s near the end of the day. Nobody likes having to pack up and haul their stuff back home!
Why?
Flea market shopping is not for everyone. You might have to go back a few times before finding what you’re looking for. And when you do find it, it might be at the bottom of a box that was stored in an attic for 30 years and needs a good cleaning. Personally I go to the flea market to pick up unusual and affordable vintage finds, and enjoy spending some time outside at the same time. Perhaps you feel the same way.
