Here is a list of tips for shoppers that has been copied and modified from
http://www.mom2momlist.com/.
Get to the sale EARLY! Some people will stand out in line for 2-3 hours before a sale even opens just so they can be the first ones in.
Have a dollar ready at the entrance for each person in your party over 12 years.
Strollers are allowed at this sale. However, these types of sales can be
really crowded. If you can go without your children, it'll be much easier on you. If you must bring your children, bring a friend to help, if possible.
Bring a large tote-bag to carry your purchases. Many table-renters won't have bags, and even if they do, it'll usually only be a standard-size plastic grocery bag. Those don't hold too much.
Make a mental note of how the tables are arranged in the vendor area. That way you easily go back to a tabel if you're not sure about an item when you first see it. On the other hand, you might want to get an item as soon as you are interested; someone else might purchase it right after you move along to another table!
Make sure you clean out the trunk of your car beforehand. Our sale will have a large-ticket-item room or section. You might find anything from carseats to cribs or beds in this area, and these items can take up a lot of space in your vehicle.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Do not overdress - it can get surprisingly warm while being packed like sardines with so many other moms.
Keep your money accessible but safe. Either a deep front pocket on your pants, or a hip-bag is a good idea. You won't want to have to stop and open your purse, and dig out your wallet, every time you want to make a purchase. You'll want to get in, buy, and get out.
Bring a partner - either friend or family. Tell each other what you are looking for, and how much you're willing to spend. You can help each other find the great deals!
If you find something that you really want, but you feel the mom is asking for more than it's worth, make an offer! Most of the time, moms do not want to bring any of their "for-sale" items back home with them, and would rather take a reasonable offer than not sell it at all. And when you are buying multiple items from the same person, they are sometimes very willing to give you a "package price". The worst that can happen is she can say no. Be polite - not pushy - when you are haggling!
Check items very carefully before making an offer and/or purchasing. Make sure that buttons aren't missing, and zippers work. Check all over for rips and stains. Sometimes the most adorable outfits can have irreparable damage. And the best toys can be missing vital pieces.
If you are not looking for big ticket items, you can sometimes get better deals later in the day. Often, sellers will reduce their entire tables by 50% in the last hour. At least, almost everyone is more willing to bargain with you late in the day so that they don't have to take their stuff home!
Make a list of what you are looking for before you go to the sale. This will help you stay alert for the items you want most.
Don't forget to bring a few extra dollars to stock up on baked items for your family. Dollars you spend at the bake sale will go directly to the hospital!
Have fun, and remember that you are helping your family AND your community by attending the sale!
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