Planning a staycation this summer with shopping in mind? Then turn it into a thrift shopping road trip adventure.
Skip the crowded malls and explore second-hand shopping options across southern Ontario with the goal of finding treasures to bring home as souvenirs along the way. Choose your start and end point of your journey and discover a plethora of shopping options in between: consignment stores, auctions, second-hand stores, charity shops, flea markets and more. And keep your eyes peeled for any garage sales and other pop-up shops along your route.
There are several consignment stores, auctions, second-hand stores, charity shops and flea markets operating around the GTA where you can save on purchases this summer.
DreamstimeI once spent a full day dropping into every thrift shop I could find between Oshawa and Hamilton as a day trip. By the end of the day, I returned home with a personal bucket list find: a vintage Singer Featherweight sewing machine, still in its original case.
When it comes to thrifting, you just never know what you’ll find. From out-of-print books to retired Pyrex prints to retro clothing: there’s a dream item for every collector. Second-hand shopping gives you a chance to find all kinds of rare gems in the wild.
If you’re in the right place at the right time, you can score big, plus, it feels good to shop at local thrift shops where the money supports local families or local charities. What a win-win. Before you go shopping, keep these tips in mind to keep your day of shopping fun and frugal.
Comparison shop
Just because an item is sold second-hand, doesn’t mean it’s a good deal. If purchasing a modern item that is still sold in stores, I always take into consideration the typical retail price and weigh if the level of discount is worth the lack of warranty or ability to return. Just like retail shopping, it’s smart to comparison shop. You can quickly search for the product on your phone or even use Google Lens to reverse image search the product on the shelf to find similar examples. One thing to keep in mind; when looking at auction-style listings, the listing price is not the sold price, so pricing can be artificially inflated.
Not sure? Add it to your cart
While you deliberate, I recommend adding any “maybes” directly to your cart or basket. You never know if someone else will scoop up your find, and I’ve personally experienced it where I’ve set something back down on the shelf and another shopper immediately swooped in and grabbed the deal.
Take your time
Embrace the hunt, relax and take your time for a leisurely, relaxing experience. When it comes to thrifting, going aisle by aisle lets you take in all the details and can lead to you finding a one-of-a-kind treasure.
Catch and release
Just because an item is interesting doesn’t mean you need to take it home with you. If the item won’t add value to your life but it’s noteworthy, take a moment to appreciate the gem and put it back on the shelf for another shopper to discover. In these situations, I love to take a photograph with my phone (if the shop allows photography) so I can treat the find like a digital souvenir to share with others without the clutter or expense.
Local treasures: Thrift shops and flea markets in the Greater ɫɫ Area
Most people are aware of the big thrift chains like Value Village and Talize, but there is a treasure trove of unique shops to discover across Ontario. Let’s focus on a selection of treasure-filled options here in our backyard for the ultimate thrifty staycation. Happy treasure hunting!
Shmata Thrift Store
If you’re looking to load up on multiple items, Shmata Thrift’s style could be right up your alley. Its pay-by-the-pound pricing model encourages you to purchase in a higher volume to maximize your savings, but you can collect as few or as many extraordinary treasures as you wish. Explore the curated collection of vintage clothing, unique accessories, and distinctive home decor at two exciting locations.
Bonus Savings Tip: Check the website to sign up for a limited-time discount at its newest location on Queen Street West when you sign up for email alerts.
Notes: Open daily
Locations: 1959 Finch Ave. W., North York, Ont., and 1153 Queen St. W., ɫɫ.
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Second Journey Thrift
If you’re looking for a charity shop with great pricing on clothing, shoes, accessories, housewares, small furniture and other vintage and second-hand treasures, pop into Second Journey. You won’t find large appliances or large furniture items here.
Notes: Open daily
Location: 606 Gerrard St. E., ɫɫ
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Global Thrift
For fashionistas seeking unique styles, check out Global Thrift for outfit inspiration. Shoppers can expect to discover everything from nostalgic denim and vibrant tops to iconic accessories and sought-after Y2K pieces. Your time is well-spent exploring its organized racks.
Notes: Open daily
Location: 2654 Eglinton Ave. W., ɫɫ
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HWY 404 & Steeles Flea Market
Come visit this flea market which gathers more than 400 vendors in one location. Each weekend is a shopping adventure. You’ll find antiques and decor, collectibles, clothing, accessories, and everything in between.
Bonus Savings Tip: Check out its website before your trip to claim your Flea Bucks that can be redeemed during your shopping trip. See website for details.
Notes: Open Saturdays and Sundays
Location: 2900 Steeles Ave., E., Thornhill, Ont.
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Kensington Flea
From May through October, explore the outdoor Kensington Flea to experience a variety of vendors selling a unique mix of vintage clothing, furniture, jewelry, art, and local artisan products. It’s a smaller, more intimate market within the vibrant Kensington Market. To complement your trip to the Flea, check out the other shops in the neighbourhood, such as those on Kensington Avenue, St. Andrew Street, Baldwin Street, Augusta Avenue and Nassau Street.
Notes: Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (May through October)
Location: 216 Augusta Ave., ɫɫ
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YSM’s Double Take Thrift Store
This shop is a treasure trove for luxury items, featuring vintage and designer items you’ll love. Shopping online? You may also be interested in the products made in its Upcycling Studio, a collaborative community space where staff, volunteers and students share skills and foster creativity. These efforts give new life to otherwise damaged items. You can find these creative, upcycled options released as drops in their online store.
Notes: Open daily
Location: 310 Gerrard St., E., ɫɫ
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