Flea Markets...Tips & Tricks!

Flea Markets are often overlooked! They are actually an excellent source for the beginner, or even an experienced ephemera collector. Size varies!

Stop in at the local church bazaar or make a trip to Shipshewana, In. and visit one of the largest markets in the country. You pick!

Quite frankly, some people find navigating a large flea market to be intimidating. Let's break it down with some tips that may help you out. Check it out!

Before you go...a simple checklist!

• Location - Please, before you leave the house, grab a good map and recheck your directions. There's nothing worse than getting lost on your way to having a good time!
• Weather - It may sound simple, but failure to check the weather report can ruin a good "flea markets" day! You may get caught in a rain storm; be prepared! Take extra clothes, shoes, umbrella's and plastic bags to protect your treasures!
• Dress - Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Flip-flop's and sandals are a no-no! Your feet will thank you at the end of the day!
• Food - Eat something before you go! The food sources may be limited and/or expensive. Plus, it wouldn't hurt to pack a few snacks and carry a bottle of water.
P.S. Like mom always says, "Did you go to the bathroom yet?" Do that too!
• Handbags - Use common sense, take what you need! That five pound bag will feel like fifteen by the end of the day! Also, take a plastic grocery bag or two; tuck them in your back pocket. They could come in handy!
• Cash - Take lots of small bills. How much? That's up to you. However, we do suggest sticking to it! Don't even think about pulling out that plastic; unless you find that "must-have" piece to finish off your collection.

Bonus Tip! Most vendors expect cash and it is not considered proper etiquette to drop large bills on their tables! Be nice, be prepared...and everyone is happy!

You've arrived! Now what?

• Parking, - Parking at flea markets is usually either free or a couple of dollars. Some locations may require a modest admission price as well. Have your money handy, don't hold up that car behind you! You may also receive a vendor location map and/or additional promotional fliers. Take a look at them before tossing them out.
• Maps - Hopefully, you received one upon entering through the main gates/admissions. If not, find out where the information booth is located and get one; use it! Take note of restroom locations, food vendors, and the general layout of the grounds.
• Time - Arrive early to find the best selection. Some locations will even let you in before the doors open to the public...for a price! Plan on spending at least a couple of hours; more if the hunting is good! The rule of thumb here is:

  Early arrival=better selection=higher cost to buyer!
  End of show arrival=less selection=lower cost to buyer!

  Many vendors are more willing to "deal" rather than "pack" at the end of a show! ...but please, be reasonable...

• Browse - Finally! If this is a new location for you, take a few extra minutes, (what?) and cruise through the aisles. Make mental notes of interesting booths, or better yet, write those notes down on your map. Then, go back and hit them all. Don't waste time looking at antique model trains if you came looking for vintage post cards!

Bonus Tip! Don't forget to check the perimeter around the flea markets! These are often lower rent spaces. That means lower cost to you! Don't waste too much time, but don't skip them either! We have found a lot of good stuff out there!

Time to get serious!

• Inspect - You found a good vendor? Great! Now is the time, to take your time! Inspect your paper item closely and ask yourself some questions. Is the condition relevant to its actual age? Could you display it with your collection? Can you handle it, without it falling apart? And of course, is it priced fairly?
• Questions - Ask the seller some basic questions. What do they know about this item? When did they purchase it and where? Politely test the vendor's knowledge and evaluate their answers carefully. However, keep both in perspective! They may have simply stumbled across a box of paper ephemera in their travels and are looking to unload it. If so, bingo...You've struck the mother-load!


• Price - Time to buy! Bargaining for a fair price at flea markets is considered a common practice. Our advice? Don't play games with the vendor! (especially on lower priced items!) Simply ask for their best price. Oftentimes, they will knock off 10% (or more) immediately. If it sounds fair to you, buy it!
• Home - Did you buy something today at the flea markets? Fantastic! Take your item home and enjoy it! Did you pass on something? Sorry about that, but move on! Second guessing your decisions all day long is not healthy! Don't do it! If you decide to walk away from a sale...then, walk away!

Random Notes...

Our Advice?

The point is this...these vendors and retailers may be able to help you find that one special item in exchange for your repeat business. In the end, it works out just fine for everyone!

Return from flea markets to collecting memories