Thrift Shopping is definitely a passion of mine. While having four kids, the ability to go to the marine thrift shop and off base thrift stores has helped me tremendously save on items for my constantly growing children and family.

The two main thrift stores on island for all people who have access to on base facilities are Kadena Air Base Thrift Store and the Marine Thrift Shop located on Camp Foster.

The Kadena Air Base Thrift Store

The Kadena Thrift shop is located on Kadena Air Base in Building 859. The easiest way to get to the facility is if you are on the main road heading toward gate 3, turn left at the intersection with Fairchild Express and Arby’s/Burger King on your right. At the next intersection, turn left and it will be on your left approximately ½ a mile down.

Their hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 9 am – 2 pm, Thursday 1 pm – 6 pm. They have a Facebook page titled “Okinawa Enlisted Spouses’ Club Thrift Shop” and they will post on Facebook when they are taking donations, having sales, having to change their hours, or any pertinent information regarding the thrift Store.

Be advised, they only take CASH, so come prepared. They prefer small bills if possible. (the nearest ATM is on the main road near the Fairchild Express) They take books and plastic bags as donations any time during operational hours.

They also have a program called “Thrift Store Bucks” where if you are E4 and below and bring in you/your spouses’ LES (leave earning statement) they will provide you with $30 Thrift Store Bucks to use at the facility EVERY Month! Military personnel can also look through the military gear and clothing items for Free items each month. Just FYI, there is no try on area or bathroom at this facility and they do not take returns.

The Marine Thrift Shop

The second largest thrift on base is the Marine Thrift Shop located on Camp Foster in Building 5691. The easiest way to locate their facility is to look for the sports fields on the main road. If entering through the commissary gate, take a right at the first 4 way stop. The Marine Thrift Shop parking will be along the first left behind the fields. Their building will be the first building on the right. They often fly a display flag near the door. Enter the door and turn to the right. It will be at the end of the hallway.

Their hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10 am – 5 pm and Saturday 10 am – 3pm.

They have a Facebook page titled “Marine Thrift Shop” and a website www.marinethriftshopokinawa.com They will post on Facebook when they are taking donations, having sales, having to change their hours, or any pertinent information regarding the thrift Store.

They take cash and cards as well (with a $1.00 processing fee). Military personnel can also look through the military gear and clothing items for 5 Free items each month. They do have a try on room and bathroom located down the hall for this facility.

Both locations host AMAZING sales and have great prices! They host 50% off sales, pillow case sales, Holiday specials and all sorts of fun activities. During the Back to School time period, they even offered School supplies to all the kids. They are amazing organizations and give back to the community with scholarship opportunities and employment opportunities as well! They are always looking for volunteers and both have an amazing staff of people to work with!

Time to get thrifting and save with the Base Thrift Stores!

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