10 Items You Should Always Buy at Thrift Stores (High Resale Value)

If you've ever walked through a thrift store and thought, "What should I actually be looking for?" — this list is for you. Not everything on the rack is worth your time. But some items? They practically sell themselves online.

Here are 10 categories that experienced resellers grab every single time they spot them. Bookmark this list and take it on your next thrift run.

1. Leather Jackets

Real leather jackets are one of the most reliable resale items out there. Thrift stores often price them between $10 and $25, but they can easily sell for $60 to $150+ online depending on the brand and condition.

Look for brands like Wilson's, Schott, and vintage no-name leather that has that perfectly broken-in feel. Always check for cracking, peeling, or a musty smell that won't come out.

2. Denim — Especially Levi's

Levi's jeans are basically gold in the resale world. Vintage pairs (look for the orange tab or capital E on the red tab) can sell for $50 to $200+. Even modern Levi's in good condition regularly go for $25 to $50.

Other denim brands to grab:

Wrangler (vintage cuts)
Lee (especially 90s styles)
True Religion
Citizens of Humanity

3. Vintage Band Tees

This is where things get exciting. A faded Metallica tee from the 80s or 90s? That could be worth $50 to $300. Even newer concert tees from popular tours sell well.

Here's what to look for:

Single-stitch hems (usually pre-1990s)
Faded, soft cotton
Tour dates on the back
Brands like Hanes, Screen Stars, or Fruit of the Loom tags

If you're not sure about a band tee's value, snap a photo and check eBay sold listings real quick. You might be holding a $100 bill.

4. Pyrex and Vintage Kitchenware

Pyrex bowls — especially the colorful vintage patterns — have a massive collector market. A single bowl can sell for $20 to $80, and full sets go for much more.

Also look for:

CorningWare with older patterns
Cast iron skillets (Lodge, Griswold, Wagner)
Vintage Tupperware in bright colors
Le Creuset or Staub (you'd be surprised what shows up)

5. Name-Brand Shoes

Shoes are one of the best-kept secrets at thrift stores. Many people skip them, which means less competition for you.

Brands that sell fast:

Nike — especially Air Max, Dunks, and Jordan styles
New Balance — certain colorways are very trendy right now
Birkenstock — even well-worn pairs sell
Doc Martens — especially the classic 1460 boot
Dansko — nurses and professionals love these

Check the soles for wear and give them a good wipe-down. Shoes photograph really well and tend to get a lot of views on listing platforms.

6. Designer Handbags

Yes, designer bags really do show up at thrift stores. Coach is the most common find, and vintage Coach bags (the ones made in the USA) can sell for $40 to $150.

Other brands to watch for:

Dooney & Bourke
Kate Spade
Michael Kors
Fossil (vintage styles)

Always check the interior for stains, the zippers for function, and the hardware for tarnish. A good-condition bag is easy money.

7. Books — Especially First Editions

Most thrift store books are priced between $1 and $3. But some are worth way more. First editions of popular titles, signed copies, and out-of-print books can sell for $20 to $500+.

Quick tips:

Use the Amazon Seller app to scan barcodes on the spot
Look for hardcovers with dust jackets intact
Check the copyright page for "First Edition" or a specific number line
Textbooks can also be surprisingly valuable

8. Vintage Jewelry

The jewelry case at a thrift store is always worth a look. Vintage costume jewelry from brands like Monet, Trifari, and Sarah Coventry sells well to collectors.

And sometimes? You'll find real gold or sterling silver mixed in. Look for stamps like "925," "14K," or "Sterling" on the clasp or back.

Even unsigned vintage pieces can sell for $15 to $40 if they have that cool retro look.

9. Quality Wool Coats

A well-made wool coat is hard to find new for under $150. At a thrift store, you might pay $15. Brands like Pendleton, J.Crew, Banana Republic, and vintage wool coats with interesting patterns are always in demand.

Check the fabric content on the tag. 100% wool or a high wool blend is what you want. Give it a sniff test — wool can hold odors, but most come out with proper airing or dry cleaning.

10. Athletic Wear (Nike, Lululemon, Adidas)

Athleisure is one of the fastest-growing resale categories. Lululemon leggings alone can sell for $30 to $60 used. Nike hoodies, Adidas track pants, and Under Armour tops all move quickly too.

What to look for:

Lululemon — check the size dot in the pocket
Nike Dri-FIT — popular with buyers year-round
Adidas Originals — the retro styles especially
Patagonia — technically outdoor, but it flies off shelves

Final Tips for Your Next Thrift Run

Now that you know what to look for, here's how to make the most of every trip:

Go with a plan. Focus on 2-3 categories per visit so you don't get overwhelmed.
Check sold listings, not active ones. What something actually sold for is more useful than what people are asking.
Don't skip the back aisles. Kitchenware, shoes, and accessories are often less picked over than clothing.
Bring your phone. A quick search can tell you if that $4 item is really worth $80.

List Faster, Sell Smarter

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If you want to try it out, use code THRIFT30 to save on your subscription. Honestly, it's a game-changer when your inventory starts growing. You'll wonder how you ever listed without it.