What do you need for a flea market?

A flea market needs more than tables for sellers. You also need clear stand numbers and route arrows, a way to take cash and card payments, and enough equipment to run refreshments without slowing down the market. This checklist covers the practical supplies behind the event, from tents and clothes racks to extension cords, reusable cups and coffee equipment. Check power, weather protection and change before opening day; replacing those items at the last minute is difficult.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Party tentsqty 4
Market tablesqty 24
Folding chairsqty 30
Clothes racksqty 8
Tableclothsqty 24
Bollardsqty 12

Equipment

Payment terminal
Cash register
Coolersqty 4
Extension cordsqty 4
Power stripsqty 4
Rechargeable flashlightsqty 4

Lighting

LED light stringsqty 6
LED lampsqty 8

Tableware

Reusable cupsqty 150
Coffee cupsqty 80
Platesqty 80
Teaspoonsqty 80
Serving traysqty 6

Kitchen

Coffee machinesqty 2
Kettlesqty 2
Thermos flasksqty 4
Serving jugsqty 4
Ice spoonsqty 2

Decorations

Welcome signsqty 2
Stand number signsqty 30
Route arrowsqty 12
Adhesive tapeqty 8
Cable tiesqty 100
Sidewalk chalkqty 2

Cleaning

Broomqty 3
Dustpan and brushqty 3
Mop setqty 2
Bucketsqty 3
Microfiber clothsqty 12
Hand sanitizer bottlesqty 4

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 2 packs
- Black tea - 2 boxes
- Herbal tea - 1 box
- Chocolate milk - 6 liters
- Semi-skimmed milk - 8 liters
- Oat milk - 4 liters
- Sugar - 2 kilograms
- Sweetener - 1 box
- Cola - 12 bottles
- Cola Zero - 12 bottles
- Orange soda - 8 bottles
- Iced tea - 8 bottles
- Spa Blue - 48 bottles
- Spa Rood - 24 small bottles
- Apple juice - 6 packs
- Orange juice - 6 cartons
- Stir sticks - 200 pieces
- Paper napkins - 300 pieces
- Plain chips - 6 bags
- Paprika chips - 6 bags
- Snack mix - 4 bags
- Cookies - 8 packs
- Muesli bars - 60 pieces
- Currant buns - 40 pieces
- Apples - 40 pieces
- Bananas - 30 pieces
- Mayonnaise - 1 bottle
- Ketchup - 1 bottle
- Trash bags - 4 rolls
- Paper towels - 6 rolls
- Toilet paper - 24 rolls
- Dish soap - 2 bottles
- All-purpose cleaner - 2 bottles
- Disinfectant spray - 2 bottles
- Sponges - 6 pieces
- Rubber gloves - 6 pairs
- Toilet freshener - 2 pieces

Tips

Plan one market table per exhibitor space, then add a few spare tables for the hospitality sales point and registration or information. Confirm the final exhibitor count before hiring or collecting furniture.
Use one stand number sign for every exhibitor space and place route arrows at each decision point. Print the exhibitor list after registrations close, ideally 2–3 days before the market.
Prepare both a cash register with change and a payment terminal. Count the change before doors open and test the terminal, power supply and connection on the same day.
For refreshments, count reusable cups, coffee cups and plates against the expected visitors rather than exhibitors alone. Set out at least two coffee machines or kettles when the market is busy enough to create a queue at one point.
Check the forecast 24 hours before setup and keep party tents, cable ties, adhesive tape and bollards ready. Test every extension cord and power strip before connecting coffee machines, lighting or the payment equipment.

Frequently asked questions

How many tables do I need for a flea market?: Start with one market table for each confirmed exhibitor space. Add at least 2–3 extra tables for refreshments, information and spare capacity, then confirm the layout before setup day.
What should I bring to take payments at a flea market?: Bring a cash register with enough change and a tested payment terminal. Check both at least 24 hours beforehand, and test the terminal again when the venue opens in case the connection or power supply has changed.
How many cups and plates do I need for flea market refreshments?: Estimate one cup per expected drink and add a 10–20% buffer for losses and repeat drinks. Plates should cover the food portions you plan to sell, with extra reusable cups and coffee cups available during the busiest hour.
When should I prepare signs and route arrows for a flea market?: Prepare and print the welcome signs, stand numbers and route arrows at least 2–3 days before the market. Walk the venue during setup and add or move arrows before exhibitors arrive, so visitors do not need verbal directions.

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