Lost and found

With snow in the forecast – several feet by some predictions – locals’ minds are no doubt shifting somewhat abruptly from bikes to skis. But if the trip to the gear closet or garage found your winter kit somewhat lacking, perhaps it’s time for a little bargain-hunting road trip.

Sat., Nov. 2, marks the 43rd annual Unclaimed Baggage Ski Sale in Scottsboro, Ala. Touting itself as the nation’s only retailer of lost luggage, Unclaimed Baggage’s annual event draws thousands of winter sports enthusiasts and savvy shoppers to this (mostly) snow-free town in northwestern Alabama. Featured last year in the Washington Post, the sale is billed as “one of the most unique winter shopping experiences” in the U.S. – part treasure hunt, part winter celebration.

In fact, the sale is so popular that price-conscious ski bums (which we’re pretty sure encompasses all ski bums) camp out in front of the store the night before the sale. Shoppers have been known to score deals on skis, boards and gear from top brands like The North Face, Patagonia and Arc’teryx. 

Not only is this event known for its dirtbag appeal, but it can also add sustainability to its list of upsides. As the fashion industry leans more into sustainable practices, Unclaimed Baggage considers itself a leader in the secondhand market, as all items sold come from uh, someone else’s (hopefully clean) luggage. 

So why not make a trip out of it? It’s a mere 21.5 hours away and you can visit Graceland on the way. Plus, who knows? Maybe you’ll even stumble across some of your own long-lost luggage at the sale.