Thrift shopping tips and tricks

Thrift shopping has evolved into more than a budget-friendly habit—it’s now a preferred approach for style-conscious and sustainability-minded shoppers alike. As inflation continues to affect everyday purchases, secondhand stores offer a way to access quality clothing without overspending. Experts from Kaiia have identified 5 easy-to-follow tips that will help to shop secondhand in both sustainable and budget-smart ways.

These five expert-informed tips outline how to navigate thrift stores more effectively:

1. Scan for Fabric First, Labels Second

High-quality materials like wool, silk, and 100% cotton often indicate a better-made item, even if the brand isn’t instantly recognizable. Vintage garments were frequently made with more durable fabrics than fast fashion today.

Recommendation: Check the clothing before you look at the label—your hands often know a quality piece before your eyes do.

2. Shop in Upscale Zip Codes for Unexpected Finds

Thrift stores located in higher-income neighborhoods often receive donations that include lightly worn or designer-label items. These locations may offer a greater chance of finding higher-value pieces at secondhand prices, saving up to 40% per designer find, due to the quality and volume of donated goods.

Recommendation: Target suburban and well-off neighborhoods midweek for fresh inventory with less competition.

3. Use the 'Touch and Tug' Test

Gently stretch seams, check underarms, and inspect zippers. Many vintage or older garments look great on the rack but may have hidden damage.

Recommendation: Always do a quick integrity test to avoid post-purchase regrets.

4. Thrift for Seasons Ahead

Inventory at thrift stores tends to reflect donation patterns more than current retail trends. Since most shoppers are focused on immediate needs, off-season items are often overlooked — making them easier to find and typically marked down. This applies not just to clothing but also to seasonal home goods and accessories.

Recommendation: Shop out of season for the best inventory and prices.

5. Know Where to Look for the Best Finds

The quality and variety of secondhand inventory often depends on where the store is located. Certain U.S. cities have developed reputations for strong thrift cultures, offering more curated selections and higher turnover of quality items. Cities like Austin, Portland, Minneapolis, Asheville, and San Diego consistently rank among the best for secondhand shopping, thanks to their mix of community support, fashion-forward donors, and store density.

Recommendation: When traveling—or even planning a wardrobe refresh—exploring thrift stores in these areas can yield better finds and a more enjoyable experience.

The expert takeaway

“Thrift shopping has evolved from a budget necessity to a conscious consumer movement, offering an accessible way to reduce fashion's environmental footprint while discovering unique pieces with character and history. Beyond affordability, thrift shopping creates a treasure-hunting experience that connects shoppers with their community's past while actively participating in a circular economy that extends the life cycle of perfectly usable goods.”