Top car boot sales in Devon – what to look for
**TL;DR**
Car boot sales are brilliant for finding bargains in Devon. Look for quality items, check prices early, arrive before peak times, and bring cash. Popular Devon boot sales happen weekly across Exeter, Plymouth and Torquay. Hunt for hidden gems at less crowded events for the best deals.
## Introduction
Car boot sales in Devon offer incredible value for money. Whether you’re hunting for vintage treasures, household items, or children’s toys, these outdoor markets deliver. You’ll find everything from furniture to books, often at a fraction of high street prices. But knowing what to look for makes all the difference. The best boot sale shoppers have strategies. They arrive early. They inspect items carefully. They negotiate smartly. This guide shows you exactly what separates savvy shoppers from casual browsers. We’ll help you find genuine bargains at Devon’s top car boot sales.
## What Should You Look for at Car Boot Sales?
**What items offer the best value at Devon car boot sales?**
Electronics, vintage clothing, and books typically represent excellent buys. Sellers often price these 50-70% below retail. Check that electronics switch on and work properly before handing over cash. Inspect vintage items for damage or wear. Books should have intact spines and clean pages.
Furniture pieces like chairs, small tables, and shelving units sell for surprisingly little. You might grab a solid wooden chair for £5-10. Picture frames, kitchenware, and garden tools are always competitively priced. Collector’s items like vinyl records and board games often go for bargain prices. Kids’ clothing and toys move quickly because parents hunt for deals. Sports equipment rarely sells for more than a quarter of shop prices.
## When Should You Arrive at Devon Boot Sales?
**Is arriving early really worth it for the best selection?**
Absolutely. The first hour makes a massive difference. Serious shoppers grab items within the first 30 minutes. You’ll see empty tables rapidly fill with sold stickers. Arriving at opening time gives you first pick of quality goods.
However, arriving later has advantages too. Sellers become more flexible with prices in the final hour. They’d rather shift stock at half price than pack it away. You might negotiate a three-item bundle for £10 in the closing minutes. Visit around 2-3pm for negotiating power. Go at 9am for selection.
## How Can You Spot Quality Items Worth Buying?
Check seams on clothing for strength. Look underneath furniture for woodworm or damage. Test zips, buttons, and fastenings on bags and coats. Inspect item corners and edges where wear shows first. Ask sellers direct questions about age and condition. Most are honest about faults. Bring a small torch to spot stains or scratches on darker items. Feel the weight of items. Heavier typically means better quality. Avoid anything with strange smells.
## Where Are Devon’s Best Car Boot Sales Located?
Top venues include Westpoint near Exeter, which hosts regular Saturday and Sunday sales. Clyst Valley Holiday Park near Broadclyst runs fantastic family-friendly events. In Plymouth, Brickfields hosts monthly boot sales. Torquay’s Great Parks venue offers excellent sales too. Smaller villages like Crediton and Tiverton run regular community boot sales with less crowding. Check local Facebook groups for hidden gem locations. Village halls often host smaller sales with less competition. These quieter events sometimes feature genuine antiques overlooked at big venues.
## Should You Bring Cash or Can You Use Cards?
**Do you need cash at Devon car boot sales?**
Yes, bring plenty of cash. Most sellers won’t accept cards or contactless payments. Budget £30-50 in small denominations like £1 coins and £5 notes. Sellers struggle to give change for large notes. Bring a small bag or backpack. You’ll likely accumulate items quickly. Wear comfortable shoes. Boot sales involve walking and standing for hours. Don’t carry valuables. Keep money in separate pockets for safety.
## Conclusion
Finding bargains at Devon car boot sales simply requires knowing what to look for. Arrive early for selection or late for negotiating power. Check item quality thoroughly before purchasing. Bring cash in small notes. Focus on furniture, electronics, books, and vintage clothing for genuine value. Less crowded venues often hide the best finds. Start exploring today and build your boot sale expertise. **Find a car boot sale near you by searching our free UK directory.**
## FAQ
**What time do car boot sales start in Devon?**
Most Devon car boot sales open between 8am and 9am. Sellers often arrive even earlier to set up. Check specific venues as times vary.
**How much should I expect to spend at a car boot sale?**
Budget £20-50 for a good morning’s shopping. You’ll find quality items at this price point, though bargains under £5 are common.
**Are car boot sale items usually second-hand?**
Yes, most items are pre-owned. Some new stock appears occasionally. Always inspect carefully before buying used goods.
**Can I sell at Devon car boot sales?**
Yes. Contact venue organisers about pitch availability. Pitch fees typically cost £15-25 depending on location and size.
**Which Devon boot sales run every week?**
Westpoint near Exeter runs weekly events. Check individual venue websites for seasonal schedules, as some close during winter months.