Why I Love Bargain Shopping

Do you like going on treasure hunts? Then you will love the joys of bargain shopping. I’m not sure exactly when I got in to thrift shopping, but I remember going to antique barns in college. My college was located in a rural town so we often thought it was fun to go antique hunting. Recently I’ve been heading to the local Goodwill for clothes for our little one. I still splurge on adorable outfits I find online or at stores, but Izzy is growing so quickly that sometimes it feels like a waste to buy a $15 outfit. I find myself feeling sad when she only wears an outfit 1 or 2 times. But I don’t feel as guilty about spending money if the outfit was only $2!

Here are some reasons I love bargain shopping:

The most obvious reason, it saves you money. We are living on a limited budget since I stay at home with Izzy and my husband is in training as a medical resident. I still buy ‘new’ clothes or household items, but I love going to Goodwill on a rainy day to search for treasure. You can find barely worn designer clothing for dollars. Then you don’t feel as guilty splurging on something else.

It’s an adventure. It’s fun to sort through things and find a unique or handmade piece. We buy clothes at thrift stores or consignment shops, but I also love finding household items. I’ve found antique china, handmade wooden bowls, and hand-painted serving platters from Italy. All at Goodwill!

You can create a unique style. You most likely won’t have to worry about wearing the same outfit as someone else and your home can have one of a kind pieces.

Goodwill helps the community. When I worked as a school psychologist some of my students who had disabilities were able to find work at Goodwill. Here is their mission statement from their website: Goodwill works to enhance the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families by strengthening communities, eliminating barriers to opportunity, and helping people in need reach their full potential through learning and the power of work.

Bargain hunting is great for kids! You can find gently used toys and clothing at yard sales, thrift stores and consignment shops. Kids go through things so quickly and baby toys can be expensive.

I understand some people get weirded out about wearing someone else’s clothing. My advice would be to wash it thoroughly and if you really feel led to, pray over it! Even new clothes are often filled with germs and sometimes feces (EW!).

Some more thrifty finds: