If you would like to take a stab at the flea market it may take a few tries to find your niche when competing with other vendors. If you break it down most vendors at flea markets are selling a lot of martial arts weapons, knives, statues, dragons etc. Then you have the flip side of tools, purses, toys etc.

Think of it this way. You can do quite well at the flea market by standing out. The way to do so is to find something to sell that isn’t in the norm for flea markets. While spending some time at the Flea market in Mobile Alabama I noticed one vendor had gaggles of people waiting around his booth. I went closer to get a peek of all the commotion. This guy had his Laptop setup with bluetooth technology to the internet and was making engraved dog tags. What a brilliant idea, and an excellent way to stand out. I met with him toward the end of the day. He noted that he sells out of product every day. He sells out of hardware for dog tag necklaces. But continues to complete sales.

How? Remember he is hooked up to the internet right? He places orders for customers and mails their engraved dog tags, or key-chains right to their door! Low over-head and a strong demand not to mention his booth stands out among the other typical booths.

Another vendor at this flea market was tucked in the back but had a lot of customers there too. This guy was going to Thrift stores and purchasing computers. He would then fix them up and sell a complete system for $150. I asked how many he would do in a month. He completed an average of 30 sales per month selling repaired computers that were out of date compared to the technology rate these days. Hey aren’t people going to flea markets to find something unique, for a reasonable price?

Here’s a great Idea! Purchase something to display at your booth. This could be anything from motorcycle luggage to household appliances. Let the customers get a good look at your item. If they want one all you have to do is provide them with your very own order form! Provide a receipt and a copy of their order for their purchase and drop-ship the product to their house just like the man selling engraved dog tags! Again low overhead and all you need to do is have a few samples at your booth. It’s almost like being a door to door salesperson only the difference is customers come to you!

Southern California has some of the best in the world. So whether you are a serious collector, or just looking for a fun souvenir, chances are you’ll find something cool. You’ll also experience a slice of local culture and maybe even see a star or two.

If you’re here on the weekend, you’re in luck, because there’s a flea market somewhere every Sunday. Some are good for an hour or so, others can take most of the day. Lather up with sunscreen, bring some cash, and get ready to bargain.

Housed in the parking lot of the Pasadena football stadium, the Rose Bowl Flea Market is the most popular one in Los Angeles. It takes place on the second Sunday of the month. On nice days, more than 20,000 people might show up. There are usually about 2,500 vendors selling everything from old record albums to vintage clothes to fine antiques. There are a couple of food stands, so you can grab a bite and keep shopping.

If you’re an avid collector, come early. Your admission fee will vary based on when you arrive. Gates open at 5AM, but a lot of stands don’t set up that early. Admission starts at $20 and goes down until the box office closes at 3 o’clock.

Many of the Rose Bowl vendors specialize in one type of antique or collectible. And you can find almost anything here. In addition to the expected, you’ll find old typewriters, musical instruments, paintings, rugs, jewelry, old handbags, and more.

You can — and should — do a little bargaining here, but don’t come looking for steals.

The Long Beach Outdoor Antique Market, which takes place on the third Sunday of each month, is held in Veterans Stadium. It’s been going strong since starting in 1982 and has more than 800 dealers. It’s good for old furniture, vintage clothes, rugs, lamps, and other items for the home. As one of the biggest markets on the west coast, it’s worth the drive.

Trend-setters and fashionistas will enjoy the Melrose Trading Post in the parking lot of Fairfax High School. It takes place every Sunday. About 3,000 people show up to look for vintage clothing, alternative music, 1970s stuff, and kitschy items. Live music and a few food trucks round out the scene. Young celebrities and set designers often visit.

The Santa Monica Airport hosts the Santa Monica Outdoor Antique & Collectible Market on the first and fourth Sundays. The market at the end of the month is more popular, with around 175 vendors. Doors open at 6AM. The goods here are of better quality than at the other markets, and you’ll find real antiques, nice carpets, painting, textiles, and decorative objects.

The only market with no admission fee, Pasadena City College Flea Market takes place on the first Sunday of the month. It’s the favorite of bargain hunters and others just looking for a low-key afternoon. There are usually around 500 vendors selling everything from costume jewelry to old bicycles.