Baguio City is famous for its cool weather, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant ukay-ukay culture. If you love thrift shopping and scavenging for stylish vintage clothing, Baguio is the perfect destination for you. In this article, we will explore the thrilling world of ukay-ukay in Baguio, giving you plenty of helpful tips and details for your own thrifting journey.
Where the Ukay-Ukay Action Happens
If you want to dive into the ukay-ukay experience in Baguio, you need to head to two key spots: Hilltop Market and Bayanihan Building. Hilltop Market is the larger of the two and is located a short jeepney ride away from the city’s center. It feels alive with countless stalls offering clothes, shoes, and accessories set against the mountain backdrop. You can find clothes piled up on sidewalks and shoes stacked high, all waiting for you to explore. On the other hand, Bayanihan Building, close to the busy Session Road, presents a more organized and quieter shop layout, with stores lined up neatly for ease of browsing.
What to Expect at Hilltop Market
Get ready for a lively experience when you visit Hilltop Market! It is truly a treasure hunt where each stall is packed with garments just waiting to be discovered. You might feel a bit overwhelmed by the sheer volume of items. Remember, this is all part of the journey. Instead of neat racks, you will need to dig through bins and piles to find your gems. The vendors here usually open their stalls around 7:00 AM and stay open until about 9:00 PM, so you have plenty of time to explore.
To get there, hop on a jeepney headed for “Irisan” or “La Trinidad,” and simply ask the driver to let you off at Hilltop Market. The fare is quite affordable, typically around PHP 15 (USD 0.30). If you’d rather take a taxi, a ride from Session Road will cost somewhere between PHP 80 and 120 (USD 1.60-2.40), depending on traffic conditions.
When it comes to bargain hunting, expect a wide variety of prices. Some vendors will have fixed pricing, while others will be open to some haggling. You can score deals as low as PHP 20 (USD 0.40) for a simple t-shirt, while more branded items can sell for PHP 300 (USD 6) or even higher.
Navigating Bayanihan Building’s Ukay Scene
Bayanihan Building offers a more relaxed experience for ukay-ukay shopping. The shops are well-organized, allowing you to browse at a leisurely pace. While you’ll still find a diverse selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories, the calmer atmosphere is great if you prefer less chaos.
Bayanihan Building is also conveniently located near Session Road, making it easy to walk to. Just head away from Session Road towards the Baguio Public Market. Alternatively, you can catch a taxi by saying “Bayanihan Building” to the driver, with fares typically around PHP 50 (USD 1) from Burnham Park.
Prices at Bayanihan Building may be a bit higher than at Hilltop Market, but many shoppers believe the curated selection, cleaner environment, and better lighting make it worth the extra cost.
What You Might Find: Unique Treasures
The thrill of shopping at Baguio’s ukay-ukays lies in discovering unique items. You may find a vintage leather jacket from the 80s, a designer dress with the original price tag, or a pair of stylish boots that fit just right. Just the other day, I stumbled upon a Burberry trench coat that looked almost new for PHP 800 (USD 16)!
During the cooler months, keep an eye out for clothing made from natural materials such as wool, cashmere, and silk. These items are common and can be quite high in quality. Don’t forget to check out the accessories, too! You might come across an eye-catching necklace, a vintage scarf, or a stylish belt that can elevate your outfit.
Making the Most of Your Ukay-Ukay Trip
To have a great time while thrifting, it’s important to prepare. Start your day early to maximize your chances of finding the best items before they sell out. Comfortable shoes are a must since you’ll likely be on your feet exploring stalls. Dress in clothing that’s simple to change in and out of so that you can try on pieces easily. Make sure to bring a large shopping bag or backpack to carry your finds.
Don’t hesitate to haggle! It’s common practice at ukay-ukay markets. If you’re buying multiple items, the vendor might be willing to offer a discount. Being polite and friendly while you negotiate can go a long way. Also, learning a few phrases in Tagalog such as “Magkano po?” (How much is this?) will show respect and may help you in striking better deals.
Before buying, examine each item for any stains, tears, or other imperfections. It’s always advisable to thoroughly wash your ukay-ukay treasures before wearing them to ensure cleanliness.
Beyond the Clothes: A Complete Baguio Experience
While the thrill of ukay-ukay shopping is a huge attraction, there’s so much more to see and do in Baguio. Consider wandering around Burnham Park, enjoy the scenery at Mines View Park, or visit the beautiful botanical garden. Take a break and savor a hot chocolate at a cozy café, or treat yourself to local favorites like strawberry taho or kinuday.
To fully immerse yourself in the Baguio experience, think about staying at a local guesthouse or an Airbnb. Many are located within easy walking distance of the ukay-ukay spots. A comfortable room will usually cost around PHP 800-1500 (USD 16-30) per night, making it quite affordable.
When it’s time to refuel after a long day of shopping, head over to Good Taste Cafe & Restaurant near Burnham Park. The food is delicious and prices are budget-friendly, averaging around PHP 200-400 (USD 4-8) per person.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to buy ukay-ukay clothes?
Yes, buying ukay-ukay clothes is generally safe as long as you take necessary precautions. Don’t forget to wash and disinfect your finds thoroughly before wearing them for the first time.
What’s the best time to go ukay-ukay shopping in Baguio?
The best time to hit the shops is early in the morning, around 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. This is when the fresh items arrive, and you’ll face fewer crowds.
How much money should I bring for a day of ukay-ukay?
It varies based on your budget and how much you plan to buy. Nonetheless, having PHP 1000-2000 (USD 20-40) should be more than enough for a good haul.
Are credit cards accepted at ukay-ukay stores?
Most ukay-ukay stores do not accept credit cards, so it’s wise to carry enough cash with you during your shopping trip.
What are some essential items to bring on an ukay-ukay trip?
A large shopping bag, comfortable shoes, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes are great items to have. Also, carry some small cash for purchases.
Are there fitting rooms available in Hilltop Market or Bayanihan Building?
Fitting rooms are limited in Hilltop Market, so most vendors allow you to try on items over your clothes. In Bayanihan Building, shared fitting rooms are more common. Opt for wearing thinner clothing so you can change quickly and easily!
What’s the best way to clean ukay-ukay clothes?
Washing your clothing with hot water and detergent is ideal. Adding a cup of vinegar to the laundry helps with sanitation. You can also soak items in a diluted disinfectant for an hour or more.
How do I haggle effectively?
Be polite, friendly and start by offering a price a little lower than what you’re willing to spend! If you’re buying multiple items, don’t hesitate to ask for a discount.
Are all the items second-hand or are there brand-new items too?
Most items you’ll find are second-hand, but sometimes you might come across brand-new or lightly used items, such as overruns from factories, so keep your eyes peeled!
How do I know if an item is authentic?
It can be tricky to guarantee authenticity. Examine branded items closely for quality stitching, labels, and hardware. If the price seems too good to be true, it might just be! Doing a little research on the brand label can also be helpful.
