Advantages:
We have truly saved the best for last. Thrift stores are one of our personal favorites. Like antique stores, there is tremendous variation among thrift stores.

Most offer bargain and treasure hunting bonanzas. Like rummage sales, thrift stores are usually run for the benefit of a particular organization or good cause (like domestic violence shelters, Goodwill, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, etc.)

Items have usually been donated from hundreds of different people, hence the variation is tremendous. It is not uncommon to pick up GREAT deals as pricing is often done by well-meaning volunteers rather than dealers or experts.

We have gotten every type of item we have ever bought in an antique store at thrift stores, often at much reduced prices. Some are better than others but at the ones we frequent, designer clothes, ladies handbags and men's suits in perfect condition are priced at $2. We also buy expensive bed linens, and handmade afghans and throws for under $5. House wares, tables, pictures and the like are also frequently purchased bargains and to a lesser extent furniture. The thrift stores in which we shop are not unlike some upscale consignment shops only MUCH cheaper.

Downside:
The type of merchandise you'll find depends on the donating community in the store's area. Also some stores are better than others at ensuring the merchandise is clean and in fairly good condition.

Bottom Line: Go, go, go! There are usually many to pick from, and you are bound to find one you like. Also, don't just be a shopper; donate to these stores. Many of them will pick large items up from your home.