Cheap Christmas Gifts at Thrift Stores, Flea Markets and More

Its no secret: the economy is struggling. People are out of work, broke and worried about how theyll pay the bills. Thats not a good state to be in especially with holidays approaching. Dont worry about how youll provide gifts for your family this year; start shopping at out-of-the-ordinary places in your own hometown and youll get all the bargains! Many people hit the large retailers when Christmas is approaching, and yes, there are some good deals to be had, but if youre needing things to be even cheaper than that check out some unusual places in your town and nearby cities. Change your frame of mind, when it comes to Christmas shopping, and youll have a holly jolly Christmas after all! Many large towns have a Goodwill center where anyone can purchase clothing, furniture, cds and more. The Goodwill is a well-known organization which sells slightly used items for next to nothing. Youll find coats, shoes and boots, retro items, lamps, rugs and much more. Shop the stores nearest lakes or other wealthy communities for the best quality items.

Have you visited any of your towns thrift shops? If you know people that like retro items youll find some great bargains at most thrift stores. Generally, thrift stores carry clothing, furniture, toys, childrens items, cookware, bake ware and similar things. Youll usually find that the dealer will bargain with you on the already-low prices. Many items have been so gently used you cant tell theyve been used at all.

Check your yellow pages for thrift stores in your town and surrounding areas. Variety stores are similar to thrift stores but usually they have a large assortment of big items, like appliances. Most variety stores sell jewelry, furniture, towels, curtains, dressers, tables and other household furnishings. Lots of variety stores have great prices and owners are often willing to drop the price for those making multiple purchases. Large flea markets often sell new items at reduced prices. You can find everything from jewelry to collectibles to tools. Almost always, there will be tables selling baby items, toiletries, home decor items, shoes, clothing - even food. Take advantage of the deals but be careful what you purchase. When it comes to electrical items ask the dealer if you can plug it in and make sure it works. Do the same thing with electronics. Most people are honest but there are some people who try to sell things that dont work. Honest people will be sellers at the same flea market repeatedly. Visit the flea market a couple of times to see which dealers are permanent fixtures. Dont forget to check online at some of the large auctions. Ebay and similar sites have fabulous deals if you look around. Online auctions literally have thousands and thousands of items that are selling for less than in your local retailers stores. Have an idea of the actual price of an item, then look for bargains at an online auction, but make sure you understand the condition of the item and the terms of the seller. Some local radio stations have a call-in show where people can buy and sell items from each other. These programs make no charge for the services and youll often find one-of-a-kind deals. Many people are facing hardships, forcing them to sell some things they might otherwise keep, and you can take advantage of that. Youll help the seller and youll have a great gift to give someone you love. Babies and young children have no idea that a gently used item is not brand new. Likewise, some people, if they love something enough, will not care if the item is not in its original packaging. Tools are a good example of something a person might not mind receiving after being gently used. If youre struggling for ideas on how you can afford Christmas this year change your frame of mind. Look around at some of the local out-of-the-ordinary places to find some great bargains. Youll have peace of mind and the recipients of your gifts will definitely appreciate them.