What is a Car Boot Sale?
A car boot sale is a UK event where individuals sell second-hand items from the boot (trunk) of their car in a large outdoor space such as a field, car park or market ground. Sellers pay a small fee to set up, unload their goods and display them on tables, blankets or directly from their vehicles.
Car boot sales are usually held on weekends, especially during spring and summer, and attract thrifters, families, collectors and resellers looking for bargains and unique pre-loved items.
Car Boot Sale Meaning
A car boot sale is an outdoor market where people sell used items directly from their car boot at low prices.
They are one of the most popular and affordable ways to buy second-hand goods in the UK.
What You Can Find at a Car Boot Sale
Car boot sales are known for variety and unpredictability. You might come across:
clothing and shoes
children's toys and clothes
books, DVDs and games
furniture and homeware
kitchen items
vintage pieces and retro goods
electronics and gadgets
tools and garden items
sports equipment
collectibles and curiosities
Stock depends entirely on what sellers bring on the day, making every event different.
Why People Love Car Boot Sales
Low prices: Items are often very cheap because sellers mainly want to clear space.
Treasure-hunt appeal: Shoppers enjoy digging through boxes and tables for hidden gems.
Sustainability: Buying second-hand keeps items in circulation and reduces waste.
Community atmosphere: Car boot sales are social events where people chat, browse and enjoy the morning.
Great for families: Parents often go to find affordable toys, clothing and books for children.
Reselling opportunities: Many resellers buy at car boot sales and resell on platforms like Vinted, eBay and Depop.
How Car Boot Sales Work
Sellers arrive early: They drive into the field or car park and park in designated rows.
They unload items: Goods are displayed on tables, blankets or directly from the car boot.
Shoppers browse: People walk from car to car looking for bargains.
Prices are negotiable: Haggling is common, especially later in the day.
Clear-up: Sellers pack up whatever remains and drive away.
Most car boot sales run for only a few hours, usually early morning to midday.
Car Boot Sale vs Flea Market vs Yard Sale
Car Boot Sale (UK)
individuals selling from their car
cheap prices
early mornings
held in fields or car parks
Flea Market
mix of private sellers and traders
more curated than a car boot sale
higher prices and more variety
can be indoor or outdoor
Yard Sale (US)
held at someone's home
similar casual nature
not as large as a car boot sale
Car boot sales are a uniquely British mix of affordability, spontaneity and community.
Tips for Shopping at Car Boot Sales
go early for the best finds
bring cash
take a reusable bag or backpack
check items carefully
negotiate politely
dress for the weather
explore every row if possible
Some of the best treasures are found at the bottom of a box or on a blanket on the ground.
Why Car Boot Sales Are Popular With Thrifters
Car boot sales are one of the most affordable places to shop second-hand. They support circular fashion and reduce waste, and because the items come directly from people’s homes, you often find things that never make it to charity shops or vintage stores.
They offer a blend of nostalgia, sustainability and bargain hunting that appeals to both casual shoppers and serious collectors.
Related Terms
Want to find car boot sales and other second-hand events near you? Discover them on the Ganddee app.