How to Avoid Burnout While Thrift Store Shopping

Thrift store shopping—also known as "thrifting"—can be an incredibly rewarding experience. What other kinds of shopping can incorporate environmental consciousness and frugality into the thrill of a hunt?

Thrift stores are rarely organized, which can pose an invitation for some and a roadblock for others. But no matter how eager and determined a thrifter, consumer burnout can interrupt the fun; tired eyes, impatience, frustration and hunger have all stood between a thrifter and that incredible vintage designer sweater.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Snacks
• Water bottle
• Earplugs

1. Eat before setting out. Hunger can lead to impatience and a case of the grumps, and it can distract a thrifter from his mission. Keep snacks in your vehicle if you suspect hunger pangs to sneak up on you, because most clothing stores do not permit food inside.

2. Take a look at what you are wearing before going to a thrift store. If you like to try on clothes before you purchase them, wear clothes that are easy-on, easy-off. The same policy applies to shoes. A common cause of burnout is simple fatigue and irritation with the changing room process.

3. Visualize vintage and contemporary labels and logos of designers and makers you like while traveling to the store and preparing to shop. This action will keep you vigilant while you glance through selection after selection.

4. Grab a cart instead of a basket upon arrival to a thrift store. Baskets get awfully cumbersome after a few successful minutes and carts offer a place to stow your coat and other personal belongings.

5. Follow cart etiquette while shopping. Avoid monopolizing a narrow aisle with your cart. If you leave your cart at the end of an aisle while you browse, remember to keep your wallet or purse with you.

6. Survey the store. Start shopping in the area with the least amount of people and carts to avoid the frustration of navigating through a congested aisle.

7. Assess the noise level. Many a thrift-shopper has been driven out of a store by screaming children and loud cell-phone users, as well as by distasteful music pumped in over the loudspeaker. Use earplugs if necessary.

8. Make a few decisions before starting to browse through clothing. Do a few colors or vintage fabrics or textures stand out to you? Focus on these choices and ignore the rest as you skim over racks and piles. This process will be easier on your eyes and on your patience.