The Savvy Shopper’s Guide to Spotting High-Value Items at Flea Markets — According to the Experts

Of all the things we love most about summer, the return of outdoor markets and antique fairs ranks high on the list. But even people who love the thrill of the flea market chase can admit that it’s often an overwhelming experience. How do you know if you’re buying something at a fair price? What’s a great find versus a total scam? And where can you find all the best markets to shop ’til you drop?

We turned to the experts for tips, and here’s what they had to say about scoring big at all the outdoor markets this summer.

Summer Is Best for Antiquing

If the crowds flooding the outdoor markets make you wonder if you’d be better off returning when the weather cools down, it’s a reasonable question. But interior designer Jerad Gardemal assures us summer really is the ideal time—and not just because of the weather: Vendors spend all year (and especially early spring) perusing antique markets around the world to prepare for summer.

“So many vendors from the United States travel to Europe to hunt for treasures to bring back to the U.S.,” Gardemal says. “Therefore, summer tends to be a great time to peruse those treasures.” 

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Never Go Without a Cart and Cash

According to Laura Sotelo, co-founder of Olive Ateliers, there are two things she never, ever visits a market without: a cart and cash.

“Carts take the load off so we’re not limited by what we can carry in our two hands,” Sotelo says.

And while plenty of market stalls these days are equipped to take cards, it’s not always a sure thing.

Sotelo says being as flexible as possible when shopping is key for maintaining your sanity at a flea market. Gardemal agrees with both of Sotelo’s points and suggests preparing ahead of your day. This can include making a list of things you’d love to find or saving ideas on a Pinterest board. 

Look for a Signature or Maker’s Mark

If you’re concerned about the legitimacy of a piece that seems to have great potential, Sotelo says you should always look for some sort of signature or marking from the maker. Then, do a quick search to assess the price, quality, and availability. 

“Don’t be afraid to ask the vendor about the product,” Sotelo says. “Many vendors love what they source and are so knowledgeable in product history and quality.” 

You Can Haggle—Respectfully

For some vendors haggling is expected, and even a bit of a game; others will shut you down immediately. The issue is knowing the difference.

According to Sotelo, the main key is to always be respectful and flexible. The goal, she notes, isn’t necessarily to get the best deal—it’s to land a fair price for everyone. Gardemal agrees, noting that this is another reason cash is important to have on hand.

“You can sometimes negotiate a lesser price when you offer to pay cash,” he says. 

Consider the Impact of the Piece

If you’re going into this experience hoping to find something for a specific space but don’t know what exactly that might be, that’s okay. You can still come prepared. Sotelo even has a small list of important factors to consider: size, color, pricing, usability, and rehomability.

Sotel suggests also asking yourself two key questions. “Could this live in an alternate part of your space?” And “could you resell this in the future?” 

Some Items are Best Left Alone

While it’s of course important to keep an open mind as you browse, Gardemal says there are some things he’s not interested in sourcing from flea markets. These include throw pillows and bed linens.

“Those are items that I want to know the full history of—I just don’t like the idea of well-loved linens,” says Gardemal.

This does, however, exclude other types of linens.

“I love a beautiful white linen tablecloth and napkins in pristine condition,” he says.

Believe in What’s Meant to Be

One of the most overwhelming aspects of flea market hopping is that feeling that you have to make a snap decision, on the spot. While it’s a totally normal thing to stress over, it shouldn’t be a deterrent. Instead, Sotelo suggests doing a gut check. 

“If you absolutely can’t live without it, that’s how you know,” she says.

But just because you’re having second thoughts doesn’t mean you should pass, either. Instead, go for a walk and come back.

“If it’s not there, it’s not meant to be,” Sotelo says.