A field guide to flea markets

If you're a flea-market enthusiast — or one in the making — shopping season has begun. Furniture, clocks, clothing, dishes and so much more patiently wait for shoppers to find them and take them home.

In fact, part of the lure of these outdoor markets is the hunt, which ends when you find just what you've been looking for. But picking through the pile can seem daunting if you're not prepared. Here are the secrets to getting the most out of weekend treasure hunts.

Shop smart

Think about what you want before leaving home. Whether you're after something specific, such as a mirror for the bathroom, or something more general, such as wall decorations, keep a running list and check off the items that you find throughout the day. Also consider what you're willing to spend overall on each excursion, or set price limits for specific items.

Start a collection

For a collector, there's nothing more thrilling than spotting a piece that's been sought-after long and hard. What better place to start looking than a flea market? Perhaps your collection started with a family heirloom, such as your grandfather's fountain pen. Or maybe you want to focus on things you can use often (embroidered tablecloths, for example) or things you can display (such as first-edition novels).

Whatever you choose, be practical. Pick an item you love within your price range (vintage compacts, for example, rarely cost more than $20). Also, consider space restraints — don't start collecting dozens of cake stands if your kitchen doesn't have much storage space.

Finally, decide whether you want to create a considerable collection quickly (choose an object that's easy to find) or whether the hunt is what excites you (opt for something more elusive). Browse online auctions, and speak to dealers to learn more about the items that intrigue you.

Do your homework

Arm yourself with facts before shopping. Jot down measurements of all the spaces in your home where you might put new acquisitions, and take the notebook with you. A few tools will also help you make wise buys. You might bring a measuring tape and a magnifying glass for close examination.

At the end of the shopping day, you'll need a way to get finds home in one piece. Prepare packing materials (newspaper, bubble wrap, a packing blanket), supplies for strapping purchases to the car (rope, bungee cords) and a screwdriver (for removing unwieldy table legs so the piece will fit in the car). A tote bag is just right for small finds, but if you're hoping to buy furniture and don't own a truck or minivan, it may be worth renting one.

If you live nearby, many vendors will deliver to you.

Finally, always carry cash. Merchants usually accept only cash or traveler's checks, and there are rarely ATMs at these sites. Bring plenty of small bills in case vendors don't have change.

Get ready, get set ... go

Generally, the earlier you go, the greater the selection. However, the later you arrive, the better the bargain. The shopping day can start as early as 5 a.m. in many competitive markets, so merchants are less inclined to negotiate at that point.

Furniture sells first, so if that's your goal, go early. Around 9 a.m., everything is unpacked and the bargaining begins. Toward the end of the shopping day, usually noon to 3 p.m., the energy starts to wane and vendors begin packing up. Dealers often don't want to bring everything home with them, so you're bound to get a good price.

Bargaining 101

Good manners make for good negotiating. When you walk up to a booth, greet the vendor and be friendly. Never ask, "What's your best price?" Instead, try, "Would you consider less?" In general you can expect 5 percent to 10 percent to be taken off, but don't push it. Haggling for that extra dollar off may seem insulting, especially to dealers who are there to make a profit.

A good tactic is to just play hard to get, no matter how enamored you are of an item. If your excitement is evident, the dealer will think you're willing to pay any price. You might even try walking away — the vendor may just call you back to close the deal.

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