Thanks to our milder dryer climate, Essex and the South East has more regular car boot sales than any other area of the UK.  In the summer months around the Colchester area, for example, you could find one being held almost every day of the week.
Many millions of pounds change hands every weekend at boot sales, making them a favorite weekend family outing. And why not? They are, after all, a great way of recycling your unwanted stuff, making money, saving money, meeting new people,  finding those illusive items that are no longer in the shops, and enjoying a healthy walk in the fresh air. Added to which, shopaholics can get that addictive rush they crave without breaking the bank. The whole family are welcome, and usually the dog too. In fact, some thoughtful stall holders even put a bowl of drinking water down for the pooches!
It would appear that car boot sales started in the USA were they were called garage sales. They evolved from individual garage or attic clearance events to the organised profit-making extravaganzas we have today. For those who have never been to one, the idea is that you take your car, pack as much into your boot as you can, and then go to the event which is usually in a field or car park, pay a fee, and set up your stall hoping that people might buy your stuff. These days you can usually find market traders, hot dog stands, and bouncy castles there too.
There are many things to consider when you’re buying or selling. Top of my personal list is safety and security. It’s important to keep a close eye on small children who are prone to wander off. It’s also wise not to take wallets with more cash than you’ll need or credit cards just in case you lose them. Sadly, things do get stolen from stalls, especially when sellers have their backs turned, so I do advise you to be vigilant especially when arriving and unpacking your car. This is when a flock of bargain hunters will descend on your goods like vultures and your best items can go missing. Dress up warm in winter,  and on a hot summers’ day you are going to need your hat and sunscreen!
Happy bargain hunting and selling. I am happy to receive your comments. Below are some useful links.
This extremely helpful guide is packed with advice for sellers and buyers :-
This link has information on boot sales in the Essex and Suffolk areas :-
This link has some helpful legal information relating to boot sales:-
http://www.newcastle.gov.uk/core.nsf/a/tscarboot
Here’s another useful site:-
http://www.carbootjunction.co.uk/
Tags: car boot sales, money exercise