What to Bring to the Goodwill Bins
Nov 14, 2025
Your first trip to the Goodwill Bins will go much smoother if you bring the right items. Whether you’re a reseller, vintage hunter, or just curious, being prepared helps you stay comfortable, organized, and fast when digging through the bins.
If you’re totally new to the Bins, start with our Beginner’s Guide to the Goodwill Bins.
Here’s everything you should consider bringing on your next trip—plus a few “pro items” that regulars swear by.
1. A Reusable Bag or Tote
At the Bins, items can go missing quickly if you leave them sitting in the open.
A reusable tote bag is perfect for:
- Protecting small valuable items
- Holding items temporarily while you dig
- Sorting your finds at the end
Some regulars bring multiple bags to help separate categories like hard goods, clothing, or books.
2. Gloves (Highly Recommended)
You don’t have to wear gloves… but after your first few digs, you’ll understand why many people do.
Bins can contain:
- Sharp edges
- Metal hardware
- Sticky or dirty items
- Loose glass
- Broken toys
- Mystery liquids (we’ll leave it at that)
Types of gloves that work best:
- Nitrile-coated work gloves for grip
- Gardening gloves for protection
- Disposable gloves if you prefer thin layers
Bring a backup pair just in case.
3. Comfortable Clothing
You will be:
- Reaching
- Leaning
- Squatting
- Lifting
- Moving between rows
Wear clothes that allow movement and that you won’t mind getting a little dusty.
Good choices:
- Athletic wear
- Hoodies
- Breathable layers
- Joggers
- Soft denim
Avoid:
- Jewelry that can snag
- Loose straps
- Open-toe shoes
Footwear matters—running shoes or trainers are perfect.
4. Water (Seriously)
It might not look like a workout, but the Bins are physically demanding.
Bring a bottle of water—especially if you plan to stay for multiple rotations.
Some outlets are warm, some cold, and many have no nearby drink machines.
5. Hand Sanitizer or Wipes
This one explains itself.
After digging through hundreds of random items, you’ll be glad you have it.
6. A Fully Charged Phone
Essential for:
- Checking comps on eBay or Depop
- Searching brand labels
- Taking photos of unmarked items to identify them
- Messaging friends about finds
- Timing rotations or breaks
If you’re a reseller, consider bringing a portable charger.
7. Headphones (Optional)
Some people like to listen to music or podcasts while digging.
But keep the volume low—you want to hear announcements for rotations.
8. A Small Crossbody Bag
Store your:
- Wallet
- Keys
- Phone
- Car fob
- Receipts
Don’t place valuables in your cart or bag—they can go missing.
9. Measuring Tape (Resellers Only)
Especially useful for:
- Clothing measurements
- Furniture pieces
- Bags and backpacks
- Frames or art
The tiny flexible tailor’s tape works best.
10. A Portable Luggage Scale (Resellers Only)
If your outlet charges by weight, a luggage scale helps you estimate cost before checkout.
It’s not essential, but resellers love it.
11. A Snack (If You’re Staying a While#)
Some thrifters stay 2–4 hours or longer to catch multiple rotations.
A small snack helps keep your energy up—many outlets don’t have vending machines.
12. A Sorting Strateg#y
Not an item, but a mindset.
Before you even start digging, decide:
- Are you hunting for clothes, shoes, books, vintage pieces?
- Are you reselling or shopping for yourself?
- Do you want to hit fresh rotations or pick through older bins?
Having a plan makes your visit far more enjoyable.
For a complete list of recommended gear with product links, check out our Ultimate Bins Survival Kit.
One of the most common questions from new shoppers is: what do I need to bring?
Bonus: What Not to Bring
- Large backpacks (staff may ask you to leave them at the front)
- Open drinks
- Loose items that can fall into bins
- Expensive clothing you don’t want damaged
- Anything you’d panic over losing
Travel light and stay mobile.
A well-prepared Bins trip feels completely different from walking in unprepared. Bringing the right items keeps you safe, organized, and ready to hunt through fresh rotations.