08 Aug How Not to Overspend While Thrift Shopping

Last week you guys had some great suggestions when I asked if and how I should continue my Thrifty Threads 365 challenge. A lot of you thought I should continue my thrift only wardrobe but set a monthly limit for my purchases. And that got me thinking about the cardinal sin of thrifting: overspending.

I know some people think, ‘how can you go over budget when everything’s so cheap?” But “cheap” stores are the prime location to go crazy and drop a ton of cash. You’re so enamored by the prices and awesome finds that you snatch everything up, whether you need them or not.

It’s kind of like when you go to the dollar store {for me it’s Dollar Tree. Isn’t that place amazing!?}. You may walk in with the intention of buying a few things but other goodies always catch your eye. And you end up with bags of miscellaneous items and you rationalize by saying ‘it’s only a dollar.” Well, those dollars add up. And it’s the same way with thrift shopping. Though I like to think of myself as a thrift enthusiast, even I’ve been guilty of this.

At the first Adventures in Thrifting trip, I purchased four brooches, totaling $32. Um, why the heck did I need that many pins? The answer: I didn’t. Though I think the prices were good, it was overkill. So far I’ve only worn one of the brooches.

I did the same thing at the Salvation Army coat sale last December. I copped five coats for $94. Definitely a steal but I didn’t even end up wearing two of the coats.

No matter how affordable something is, only buy what you need or will get serious use out of.

So the question is how do you prevent ovrspensding while thrifting? The same way you do at any store:

Set a Budget:
Not all thrift stores are priced the same but once you’re familiar with a location or chain, then you know how much to allot. For example, many of the tops, dresses and pants at Goodwill are $7-$12. So I usually budget $20 for a trip so I can get a at least two pieces. Whatever dollar amount you set, stick with it. Trust me on this one.

Make a List:
Also, it’s a good idea to keep a running list of things you want. The inventory at thrift stores isn’t predictable so you won’t always walk out with everything checked off your list. But eventually you’ll find most, if not all of the items. A list keeps you on track and from buying random items.

Would I buy this if it was full price?:
Ask yourself that question. Then ask yourself that question again. Like I stated, the lure of a low sticker price can be tempting. But if you’re only buying something because it’s cheap, don’t buy it. A top may only be $2, but that’s a wasted $2 if you never wear it.

Have you guys ever gone overboard while thrift shopping? How do you keep your wallet in check while shopping?