How to Shop Craft Fairs and Flea Markets like a Pro

Craft fairs and flea markets are great resources for one-of-a-kind treasures-often at better prices than you could score at department and antique stores. But veteran deal hunters know there's more to shopping success than spotting retail gems. Follow these craft fair and flea market preparation and negotiating tips and you, too, can scoop up spectacular home and fashion finds with the best of them.


1. Dress for shopping success.
Comfy clothes and walking shoes are bargain-hunters' best friends! Most markets are outdoors so check the weather ahead of time and dress in layers. Dressing rooms are often scarce, if not obsolete, so one savvy shopper and Kaboodle editor suggests wearing light-weight layers and tanks so you can try on clothes over your outfit. Bring a large shoulder tote so your hands are free and to help you carry your loot.


2. Come with a plan.
If possible, research beforehand to see if any of the vendors have pictures of their merchandise online. That way you'll have an idea of where to start and who will have what you're looking for. Create a wish list and a budget to help guide you, but don't be surprised if unexpected gems derail even the best-laid plan. If you're on a strict budget, bring cash (most markets don't accept credit cards anyway) and leave your checkbook and debit cards at home so you're not tempted to overspend.

Fabulous Independent Sellers for the Best in Fashion and Home Décor!


3. Bring essentials to help you make educated home-decor buying decisions.
Since most sales are final, it's important to make sure that you not only love the pieces you're considering, but that they will work in your home. Instead of relying on your memory, ensure you make the smartest selection by arming yourself with measurements, floor plans, color swatches, and paint samples. Once you're in the thick of it, you'll appreciate having these guiding details. Also, keep packing materials like bubble wrap, tarps, duct tape, and boxes in your car to help transport your treasures home safely.

Fun Retro Fashions!


4. Know how to browse and when to pounce.
The tricky thing about expansive flea markets or craft fairs is that sometimes you don't have time to see everything before purchasing. If you walk away from an item that caught your eye, you risk it being sold by the time you visit all the other vendors. On the flipside, making too hasty of a decision may mean you miss out on a better deal elsewhere. A good way to strike a balance is to take a quick once-over of the entire fair, making note of vendors and booths. Write down the location of a few places you want to explore more in-depth and then circle back with the intent to buy.

Inspired Interior Decorations!


5. Be prepared to negotiate politely.
Since prices are usually not set in stone, most sellers expect to do some haggling, so you shouldn't be shy about asking for a better price. Phrases like, "Is this price negotiable?" or "What is the very best price you can give me on this?" (Said with a smile, of course!) allow you to get an idea of how open a person is to friendly haggling. Think of negotiating as a conversation about what you're budget is. Saying something like "It's beautiful but I only have X dollars to spend," might prompt the seller to meet your budget. What time you shop also determines how deep of a discount you might be able to score. While going early in the day ensures you'll have the widest selection of the best stuff at your disposal, sellers are more willing to negotiate closer to closing time.


More from Kaboodle:
Back-to-School Shopping Made Easy
Bridesmaid Dresses They'll Actually Want to Wear!
Finally! Hot Swimsuits Modeled by Women of Every Shape
Fall's Hottest Denim Trends You Can Wear Now!
Score Exclusive Deals on the Most Popular Products!
Underground Discoveries from Independent Designers and Retailers!
Show off Your A+ Style for a Chance to Win a $200 Gift Card!


Connect with Kaboodle:
Follow Kaboodle on Twitter!
Find us on Facebook!
Start your own Kaboodle profile!

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

photo credit: istockphoto.com