What is thrift tourism? Just a little phrase we coined to describe the #1 vacation activity for vintage lovers, bargain hunters, sustainability advocates, and people who like to see how the locals live. We’ve got something for everyone at Community Thrift Store and if San Francisco is on your destination list, we hope you’ll stop by for a visit!

Why We Love Thrift Shopping When Traveling

The CTS staff loves meeting people from all over the world, and even though we are immersed in thriftiness, we also love checking out thrift stores when we travel. Here are our top reasons to find local thrift stores on vacation:

Get the Most Unique Souvenirs

Don’t do the thing where you panic at the airport and get everyone a magnet! Thrift shopping for souvenirs allows you to find super thoughtful gifts, like a vintage edition of your best friend’s favorite book, or a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry you know your mom will love.

It’s a Low Cost Travel Activity

Vacation can be a budget-buster. Even if you’re traveling for business with most of your expenses covered, little costs can add up quickly. If you have an afternoon free, is there anything more fun than discovering new thrift stores and browsing for deals?

Add to an Existing Collection

Keep a short list of things you’d love to find while traveling. Whether you collect pop art, mid-century tableware, or vintage dresses, thrift shopping in a new area can allow you to score something you would never find on your home turf.

It’s Easy to Find the Best Thrift Stores in Any Location

Word-of-mouth will always be a great way to find the best thrift stores, so don’t be afraid to ask a local for recommendations. But we’re glad that Yelp and Google make it super easy to find thrift store locations, along with hours and reviews.

Visit Community Thrift Store on Your San Francisco Vacation

If you’re traveling to San Francisco, the Mission District is a must-see and we’re happy to be in the heart of this vibrant neighborhood. Stop by for some thrift shopping and we’ll tell you where to get the best burrito!