Last summer, when this newsletter had around 6,000 subscribers, I published what would become one of my most-read posts: my complete guide to the World’s Longest Yard Sale.
Since then, more than 9,000 of you have joined us. With this year’s sale just around the corner, I thought it was the perfect time to bring this guide back—with a few new photos and updates at the top—so everyone has it before they hit the road.
I will, of course, be going again, and will document everywhere I stop, shop, eat and everything I buy. But maybe you’re interested in going, too? If so, this guide can help.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or your tenth, I hope it helps you find something wonderful.
What I’d keep in mind if this were my first year going:
Leave lots of room in the car. I’ll be in a Chevy Tahoe this year, which will be ideal.
Spend less time hunting for “the perfect thing.” Instead, just buy great pieces when you see them.
Bring cash. Vendors tend to be more willing to negotiate with cash, and often you’ll find things priced at $1, so you need cash for that.
Start shopping early. Shop earlier in the morning and take a longer lunch break once the crowds build. (Keep in mind: it is HOT and only gets hotter throughout the day).
Be prepared to stop a lot. In addition to the major vendor stops, a lot of treasures are hiding at the little church sales, volunteer fire department sales, and in every driveway that looks a little crazy.
Go earlier in the week if you can. The biggest crowds tend to arrive Friday and Saturday. If your schedule allows, Thursday is still my favorite day to shop.
Comfort matters. Wear shoes you don’t mind putting serious miles on, bring water, electrolytes, and sunscreen.
If you’ve ever wanted to take a road trip purely for the purpose of treasure-hunting, you’ll probably love this sale. But you’ll need to know how to do it right.
Read on for:
The exact route I’ve taken for the past two years over the four-day sale
What I’m packing and wearing over the course of the trip
The snacks I’m bringing along and the playlist I’m blasting
The coolest stuff I’ve seen in recent years at the sale
You can find everything I bought at the sale in 2024 here, everything I bought in 2025 here and my full travel diary from last year is here
