Thrifting: A cost effective way to shop

Thrifting is often overlooked in today’s fast-paced, trend-driven culture, but for college students, it can be a practical solution to rising costs.

Clothing prices have steadily increased, yet many shoppers no longer question the cost. What might have once seemed expensive is now often viewed as normal, leading people to spend more on apparel without much consideration.

For college students, those costs carry an even greater weight. With tuition, housing and everyday expenses already stretching budgets, there is often little room left for nonessentials like clothing. To keep up, many students take on additional work hours, which can cut into time needed for studying and academic success.

So in the never-ending uphill battle of figuring out your finances, one simple solution could be thrifting. Prices are exceptionally cheap when it comes to used clothing and everyday garments. You can realistically find $10 shoes, $5 pants, $5 shirts and $5 hats. If you buy one of each, you could be saving hundreds of dollars versus buying new (or roughly the equivalent of 80 Chick-fil-A sandwiches).

Beyond cost savings, thrifting can also be a more intentional way to shop. Finding quality items takes some strategy. For example, check when the thrift store you are going to has a markdown. Markdowns are when stores reduce prices for unsold items.

Speaking of time, it is important to go shopping at the right time. The best time to thrift is when the store restocks. If you can figure out when this occurs, make sure you go in early, so you have a better chance to find the newest and best-quality items on the shelves.

When you’re out thrifting, make sure to stop at multiple locations. When you go into the store, examine seams, zippers, buttons and fabrics to make sure everything is in good condition. Even if an item isn’t in perfect shape, you might be able to mend it yourself cheaply.

Something else people tend to forget is that even though clothing is the number-one item thrifted, you can thrift a wide array of items ranging from books, furniture, kitchen accessories and various tools.

As college costs continue to rise, thrifting stands out as a practical way for students to save money without sacrificing style and take more control over their spending in the process.