How to Deal with Rain at the Flea Market

Many beautiful spring and summer days are ruined by a quick burst of showers. Flea market vendors are particular susceptible to the adverse effects of these rain events. How do flea market vendors deal with rain? This article will cover some of the great tips for maintaining flea market profits even when it rains.

Rain at the Flea Market: Avoid It

Some could argue that the best thing to do about rain at the flea market is to avoid it. Weather forecasts are pretty accurate these days, and, if the weatherman says it is going to rain, it might be a good idea to stay home from the flea market.

But what about vendors who rely on their weekly profits to pay the bills? While a rainy day will draw no customers to a flea market, there is always the option of switching flea markets. In most areas, there are multiple flea markets within an hour's drive. A dedicated flea market vendor can change his or her plans and drive an extra hour to make money at a different flea market for the day.

Rain at the Flea Market: Protection

If you are already at the flea market when the rain hits, there are several effective ways to protect your merchandise. For short showers, a very large umbrella may do the trick. However, rain is often accompanied by wind. The best bet for merchandise protection is investing in several waterproof tarps.

While you can purchase colored tarps with fancy tie downs and grommets, all you really need is a sturdy sheet of plastic. You can purchase clear plastic sheeting at most fabric stores. Not only will it protect your flea market merchandise from rain, any hearty customers will still be able to see your merchandise through the tarp. Clamp the tarps down with strong clamps bit enough to grab the edge of the table.

Rain at the Flea Market: Giving Up

When the customers flee to their cars and the puddles are getting dangerously deep, a flea market vendor must concede a rain defeat and pack up to go. Profits are always less in the rain, and it is just not worth it to stick it out if the customers are not coming.

What can a flea market vendor do if their sales day is rained out? Stay at home and curl up with a hot drink seems like a good idea. But if the flea market is your business, you cannot stop working just because of a little sprinkle. Research new merchandise lines, make better price signs, or do your accounting paperwork. Do not let rain get in the way of your flea market business.