One of the best ways to save money while completing your packing list is to thrift what you need.
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Sure, thrifting isn’t nearly as cheap as it used to be—especially in big cities. But most stores are overloaded with goods, and you can find more than a few major brand names when you take the time to sift through each rack.
In short, if you have patience and an eye for logos, you can make a killing at a thrift store without going over budget. That’s doubly important for travelers today considering rising hotel and flight costs.
But there’s a catch. Thrifting your packing list isn’t quite the same as choosing items from your closet. If you’re looking for some advice on how to nail your packing list, including how to thrift for what you need, I’ve got tips from one of the biggest names in America: Goodwill.
Packing tips from Evergreen Goodwill: here’s what to know
Evergreen Goodwill is a Goodwill affiliate that operates in Northwest Washington State. The non-profit operates 21 thrift stores and donation centers, along with funding tuition-free education programs for adults in the area. In short, it’s an experienced branch of Goodwill with a far reach.
According to an Evergreen Goodwill spokesperson, its thrift stores are ideal for packers who need a last-minute item. “Thrifting is one of the easiest ways to travel smarter.
You can save money, pack lighter, reduce waste, and support your community, all in a single shopping trip.”
Still, if you haven’t been to a thrift store in a while, you might get a little distracted by all the offers. Here’s what you need to know about nailing your packing list with a last-minute thrift:
- Tip #1: Know what to pack and what to avoid. Make sure you consider things like activities, itinerary, and weather before making your final selections at the thrift store. You don’t want to get carried away by items that aren’t on your list.
- Tip #2: Go for versatility before you finalize your packing list. When you enter a thrift store, look for lightweight layers, comfortable shoes, wrinkle-resistant pieces, and travel bags.
- Tip #3: Be open to the unexpected. Thrift stores are ideal for finding a diamond in the rough—especially if you appreciate style from the decades of yore. Don’t limit yourself to one section of the thrift store, in other words.
- Tip #4: Always go for quality. Thrift stores are home to many vintage brands, including those that use fabrics like cotton, denim, linen, and wool. These will stand up well to long-distance journeys.
- Tip #5: Shop with your conscience. Lastly, Evergreen Goodwill wants travelers to know that each purchase helps directly fund community initiatives. Even if you’re not from Northwest Washington, your thrift store purchases from Goodwill (and many other companies) make the world a better place—which is something many travelers love to support.
