Car Boot Sale Stall Ideas: Setups for Second-Hand, Tools, Clothing and More

The Car Boot Setup Basics

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel — just cover it properly

Car boot sales aren’t about polished branding — they’re about being seen, staying dry, and getting the job done. But that doesn’t mean scruffy wins. A clean, organised, rainproof stall gives buyers confidence — and confidence means cash.

Essentials to Bring:

• Foldable trestle tables

• Clothing rail (if selling garments)

• Boxes or crates for rummage goods

• Pop-up shelter or parasol (weather depending)

• Cash box or contactless card reader

Pro Setup Tip:

A simple 3m x 3m pop-up gazebo gives you a proper pitch feel while keeping your stock dry. Use one sidewall as a back panel to give structure and hang signs or prices. Go for something light but sturdy — you’ll need to pack it in a car boot after all.

Second-Hand Tools & Hardware

The stall where someone always says, “They don’t make ‘em like this anymore”

Selling old tools, vintage fittings, or random garage clearout gear? People love a rummage — but you need to present things clearly or they’ll walk past.

Equipment Checklist:

• Low tables or pallets for heavy gear

• Clear labelling on prices or bundle deals

• Tough plastic boxes for sharp or oily bits

• Gazebo with full anchoring (if windy)

Pro Setup Tip:

Use stacked display crates to elevate smaller tools and lay heavier items out front. Avoid cardboard — it won’t survive a damp morning. And make sure your gazebo is secured — if someone’s swinging a pickaxe around, you don’t want it taking flight.

Clothing & Accessory Stall Ideas

Half Primark, half nan’s attic — and all up for grabs

Clothing sells well at car boots, but piles on tables don’t work. People want to flick, scan, and maybe even try on. A clear rail and accessible prices are the bare minimum.

Equipment Checklist:

• Portable clothes rail or hanging line

• Mirror (optional but effective)

• Size tags, safety pins, and price labels

• Gazebo or umbrella to keep things dry

Pro Setup Tip:

Use clip-on hangers and reinforced rails — cheap ones collapse under the weight of coats and jeans. Position your stall to allow easy browsing from front and side. And if you’re trading regularly, get a custom printed banner so regulars remember you.

Mixed & General Second-Hand Stock

“Everything must go” energy — but done professionally

If your stall’s got a bit of everything — toys, kitchenware, books, DVDs, you name it — then your layout needs to be flexible, modular, and above all… quick to set up.

Equipment Checklist:

• Plastic tubs or IKEA bags (for moving gear fast)

• Tiered table layouts

• Tarp or groundsheet for extras

• Umbrella or mini gazebo (weather backup)

Pro Setup Tip:

Try a U-shaped layout under your gazebo to keep customers browsing longer. Group similar items together — even if it’s just ‘kitchen stuff’ and ‘kid stuff’. Have a few clearly labelled “£1 each” tubs at the front to draw people in.

General Car Boot Tips from the Pros

• Arrive early – The best pitches go to those who queue before sunrise.

• Label everything – People don’t want to ask, they want to buy.

• Bring change – Always bring more pound coins and 50ps than you think.

• Weatherproof your stall – Nothing kills trade faster than a soggy teddy bear pile.

• Have an “end of day” plan – Will you reduce prices or do a “fill a bag for £X” deal?

Final Word

Car booting might be grassroots, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a mess.

With a bit of shelter, a touch of organisation, and the right gear to support you, you can turn your car boot stall into something that feels smart, approachable, and — most importantly — profitable.

At Gala Tent, we help thousands of UK sellers — from Sunday regulars to full-time second-hand traders — stay dry, stand out, and set up fast with portable gazebos, branded signage, and all the little extras that make booting easier.

Need advice on your setup? Get in touch today — and we’ll help you load your boot with the right kit before you load it with stock.