Top 5 Ways to Make the Most of the US 11 Antique Alley Yard Sale
Top 5 Ways to Make the Most of the US 11 Antique Alley Yard Sale
Spring weather means the start of yard sale season, and May brings a monster of a sale to kick it off: the US 11 Antique Alley Yard Sale. Offering 502 miles of treasure hunting, the festival runs for four days along U.S. Highway 11 from Meridian, Mississippi, to Bristol, Virginia (May 13 to May 16 this year).
There’s a lot to see and do – and a lot to buy – so come prepared for the long haul and make the most of your trip:
- Dress the Part – The yard sale crosses through five states, from the Gulf Coast to the mid-Atlantic, so you’re definitely going to see some temperature changes. If you’re going the distance, be sure to pack and dress in layers to allow for highs and lows. Springtime in the South can mean temperature swings of up to 40 degrees in just a few days.
- Prepare for Rain – There’s an expression in Finland: There’s no such thing as bad weather, only poor clothing choices. Be sure to bring rain gear – including boots, an umbrella, and a hooded waterproof jacket – to be certain a little water won’t spoil your fun.
- Shop Wisely – Of course, the first rule of yard sale shopping is to be open minded… you never know what might turn up. But it’s also helpful to have some idea of what you want. Make a list of things you have space for, but leave room for those things you can’t live without.
- Do Your Homework – If you’re shopping for something very specific, spend a little time doing your research. Find out what makes that item collectible and know what you should expect to pay based on its condition. That way, you’ll come home knowing your purchase was well worth the price.
- Don’t Forget to Pack the Packing – What could be worse than finding the yard sale find of a lifetime, only to have it damaged on the trip home? Throw a couple of old towels and blankets in the back of the car to wrap fragile items or protect large pieces. You might also consider some cardboard boxes or plastic bins – along with some newspaper or tissue – to protect small, delicate items.
Of course, one of the best ways to make the most of this 500-mile yard sale is to get out and meet people. Discover the small towns, visit the hidden gems most of us miss while traveling the interstates, and don’t forget to wear sunscreen. For a list of great spots to grab a bite while you’re on this stretch of the US 11 Antique Alley Yard Sale, click here. And if you shop until you drop [into bed], you can find a cozy place to rest and reflect on all your awesome finds at these accommodations.
