Flea markets are one of the best places to shop. You can find some really unique items ranging from food to antiques. To get the best flea market finds, know when to shop, how to distinguish bargain from junk, and how to haggle.

Check your options

Go to the flea market early, especially if you’re buying something valuable. Scope out the place and look at your options. Flea markets are known for unique finds, but it’s possible to find the same item from different vendors. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, at least you’ll have the rest of the day to shop for other things. If you do find it, you can come back later to buy it.

Timing

Wait until it’s near closing to purchase your find. At the end of the day, vendors are tired and they have to make a decision about how much they want to get rid of the item that you want to buy. By closing time, they are more willing to give you a discount or accept a lower offer.

Make a deal

Vendors usually bargain with customers. If your offer is too low, the vendor will decline.

Cash only

Bring cash and keep it on your person. It’s also advisable to carry small bills. If the vendor sees you have cash, they could raise their prices. If you only have larger bills, make sure the price is already set before you pull them out.

Buy more than one item

Usually buying more than one items from the same vendor may make them lower the price, or if not, they could include another item for free.

Know what you are buying

Flea markets are known for unique finds and bargains, but they are also known for junk. If you don’t know much about a certain item such as an antique or collectible, don’t be swayed by what the vendor says. Instead, do some research before hitting the streets.

Walk away

If the vendor refuses to lower his price, or if it doesn’t feel like a good deal to you, just walk away. Sometimes, vendors call back after you and oblige. But if they don’t, then you’ll still have money to spend on other things.

Get to know the usual vendors

Notice which vendors regularly sell at the flea market. If possible, ask for their names, contact details and locations. Vendors are more accommodating to repeat customers.