How to Get the Best Deals at Thrift Stores (Including The Right Days to Shop)

Know Your Store’s Discount Days

Some days are better to shop for deals than others. On specific days, many thrift stores offer discounts, either across the board or for certain groups. Check with your local store manager for details on these offers.

"Depending on where you live, your local Goodwill stores may have certain days they offer discounts to groups like veterans, teachers, and senior citizens," explains Goodwill's chief marketing officer Onney Crawley. "Visit a store near you and ask the store manager for details."

Learn the Markdown Schedule

Another way to find the best day to shop? Ask employees about inventory rotation and markdown schedules. Most stores are transparent about when new items hit the floor and how long before items are discounted. “It’s definitely best to just ask,” says Lily Wright, owner of concierge luxury thrift service Lily of the Valley. “The employees want to move their inventory! They should be able to tell you what days they get new stock and when they put it out on the floor.”

Look for Color Tag Sales

In many thrift stores, items are color-coded based on arrival dates. Older inventory may be marked down, so keep an eye out for these sales. According to Crawley, "Some regions color-code their tags based on when items arrive. After a certain number of days, specific color tags are discounted from the price marked."

Frequent Visits Pay Off

Schedule regular visits to get the best deals at your local thrift spot, ideally shooting for midweek. Thursdays are a sweet spot to beat weekend crowds. "New inventory is often displayed midweek," says Wright. "Once I found Herend China plates valued at $200 per plate for only $8 each.”

Be Patient and Persistent

Finding the best deals often requires time and patience. Take your time browsing through racks to uncover squirreled-away gems. “The best finds are always hidden,” advises Wright. “Take your time and dig deep—thrifting is a labor of love.”

Visit Specialty Stores and Outlets

Explore Goodwill Outlet Stores for items sold by the pound or boutique thrift stores for discounted designer goods. Crawley highlights, “Goodwill Outlet Stores are an adventure where items are sold by the pound, and boutique thrift stores feature high-end or designer goods at significantly low prices.”

Volunteer for Perks

If you are shopping a small local thrift store, volunteering can grant you first dibs on new items and potential discounts. “If you have time, consider volunteering on days they receive new inventory,” says Wright. “You often get first dibs on items before they hit the floor and sometimes a discount, too.”

It’s OK to Ask for Discounts

Engage with staff and ask politely for a small discount. Requesting less than 20 percent off can be successful. "Engage with the owner or employees—they don’t want excess items in their shop," says Wright. "Offer about 20 percent off as a safe zone; 7 out of 10 times, they’ll agree."

Plan Ahead and Stay Organized

If thrift shopping overwhelms you, come with a list or idea of what you’re looking for to shop more intentionally and avoid overspending. “Having a rough idea of what you like and your personal style makes thrifting so much easier,” explains Wright. “It also helps you connect with the workers, as they’ll see you’re knowledgeable and serious.”

Try Before You Buy

Thrifting is only useful if the items you purchase work for their intended purpose. Trying things on if the store allows it is a good idea. "Sizes vary widely across brands," says Wright. "Try items on if allowed. You might be surprised how well something fits or how it looks."

Enjoy the Hunt

Let yourself be surprised by unexpected finds. Some of the most valuable items are stumbled upon by chance, like designer shoes or vintage jewelry purchased for a fraction of their value. "Patience pays off,” assures Wright. “Whether it’s a designer gown or a rare vase, some of the most valuable items are discovered by chance. That’s the magic of thrifting.”