New Mexico's got one Goodwill outlet, located in Albuquerque, and it's absolutely a must-visit for local bargain hunters. This Goodwill bins store lets you buy by the pound, which is perfect for the city's many artists, students, and frugal families. Inside the Goodwill outlet, you'll find a slice of the Southwest in thrift form – bins filled with everything from denim and desert hiking boots to cast-iron cookware and eclectic decor. The vibe at the Goodwill bins is friendly and a little adventurous; people often chat in line about their finds (or what they're hoping to find) and there's this sense of community among the regulars. But once new bins hit the floor at the Goodwill outlet, it's game on! You'll want to have gloves on your hands and a strategy in mind – maybe start at the side with housewares if that's your thing, or dive into the center for clothing at the Goodwill bins. The Albuquerque crowd knows good stuff when they see it, so it can get competitive, but not usually aggressive at the Goodwill outlet. If you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting on a weekday or later in the afternoon. Regardless, bring a big bag for your haul and wear comfortable clothes – you might be leaning over bins for a while at the Goodwill outlet. And don't be discouraged if your first trip to the Goodwill bins is a miss. The inventory here changes all the time, so each visit is a new chance to snag something amazing (perhaps a cool piece of Route 66 nostalgia or some unique vintage textiles).
