by Kay Fair

Created on: June 08, 2008   Last Updated: August 19, 2010

Looking for a treasure? Then, it's time to skip the crowded, overpriced mall and head to the flea market. Virtually anything you're looking for can be found at a market: art, clothes, books, movies, linens and especially furniture and home decor items. But before you hop in the car and drive to your nearby flea market, a few tips to make your shopping adventure both fun and worth while.

Get Ready: Get a general idea of what you're looking for. The beauty of flea markets is the originality and diversity of items to purchase, but that can also be overwhelming. It's easy to go with the intention of looking for some cool retro patio chairs, but end up coming home with a trunk full of stuffed animals instead! Just as in all shopping environments, it's advisable to keep a cool head and know the difference between an impulse buy and a true must-have treasure.

On the other hand, don't get your heart set on finding anything too specific. Keep an open mind about things like colors and conditions. At the bargain prices you'll be purchasing the items at, you can afford to put a little cash into some form of restoration or customization, if necessary.

Get Set: You'll need a little more than just your wallet for a flea market shopping trip. Make sure you fill that wallet with cash. I've yet to find a flea market where all the vendors accept major credit cards or personal checks. Also, make sure some of that cash is broken into small bills. You don't want to miss out on a bargain price just because the vendor doesn't have proper change.

Many flea markets are huge, sprawling complexes filled with hundreds of tiny independent booths. If you see an item you want to consider and possibly come back to purchase later, write it down. Carry a pen and a pocket notebook for this purpose. Some flea market booths have numbers for easy identification, but if not, make notes about the booth, its locations and surroundings. Think of your little notebook as your official flea market treasure map!

Go! Try to arrive at the flea market early. By the end of the day at a flea market, the booths have often been ransacked by eager bargain hunters sifting through goods. The earlier you come, the more organized the booths will be, making it easier for you to spot what you're looking for.

The most important thing to bring with you to a flea market is your bargaining spirit. Be prepared to haggle. Haggling is not impolite or inappropriate at a flea market. The vendors expect you to dicker for the best

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