Ever wonder what happens to all the stuff people try to bring through airport security but can’t?
Like the pocket knives, the random tools, or the forgotten water bottles?
Well, it doesn’t just disappear.
In fact, a lot of it ends up at one of the weirdest thrift stores in Texas and yes, you can buy it.
If you love digging through weird stuff and scoring cheap deals, you’re gonna want to add this spot to your Texas to-do list.
Let’s get into it.
Where Is It?
The Texas State Surplus Store is located in Austin, just a few miles east of downtown at 6506 Bolm Road.
It’s about a 15-minute drive from the Texas Capitol depending on traffic, and super easy to get to if you’re already exploring the city.
If you’re coming from San Antonio expect over an hour drive.
From Houston it’s closer to 2.5 hours and if you’re rolling in from Dallas, you’re looking at just under 3 hours on I-35.
Totally doable for a day trip or a fun detour on your Texas road trip.
About
If you’ve ever stood in the TSA line and wondered what happens to some of the stuff people forget, abandon, or get told they absolutely cannot take on a plane—this is where it ends up.
The Texas State Surplus Store is a weird and wonderful shopping spot in Austin, and it’s basically a government-run thrift store with a twist.
Run by the Texas Facilities Commission, this place sells surplus items from state agencies, universities, and even airport security checkpoints across Texas.
It’s not your average thrift store. You’re walking into a big, no-frills warehouse packed with rows of metal shelves, rolling carts, and giant bins full of all sorts of random finds.
You’ll see everything from old office furniture and state-issued gear to confiscated tools, electronics, and the occasional mystery box.
The vibe? Super casual, very DIY, and kinda like going on a treasure hunt where every aisle is a surprise.
The space itself isn’t fancy (think warehouse lighting and concrete floors), but that’s part of the charm.
You never really know what you’re going to find, and that’s exactly what makes it so fun.
People come for the cheap prices, stay for the sheer randomness, and leave with stories like “I bought a multi-tool and a collectible sword in the same trip.”
And because inventory depends on what state agencies are getting rid of—or what people tried to bring through TSA—you can pretty much count on it being different every time you go.
What They Sell
So, what exactly can you buy at the Texas State Surplus Store?
Honestly, almost anything.
Let’s start with the stuff from TSA checkpoints. This is where it gets wild.
You’ll find bins full of confiscated knives, multi-tools, corkscrews, scissors, and even nail clippers.
There are stacks of power tools, hammers, and wrenches—some likely from airport security seizures, others from state-agency surplus (because who tries to fly with a crowbar?).
There’s also a huge supply of lighters, headphones, belts, and umbrellas—basically anything people forgot or had to ditch in a hurry.
Then there’s the state surplus side, which is even more of a grab bag.
You’ll see desks, office chairs, file cabinets, shelving units, and computer monitors—all pulled from state agencies or universities when they upgrade or clear out.
There are racks of work uniforms, safety vests, boots, and even some pieces of law enforcement gear, which are reserved for authorized agencies only.
Tech lovers can dig through stacks of used laptops, keyboards, cords, projectors, and random cables galore.
There’s a surprisingly big section for sports equipment too—think baseball bats, helmets, and even treadmills that came from public schools or rec centers.
And if you’re into weird one-offs, you might stumble across things like vintage furniture, old vaults, or other unusual surplus finds.
Prices are marked on tags or listed by category, and things move fast so if you see something good, snag it.
They restock regularly, and every visit is basically a new adventure.
Know Before You Go
Alright, if you’re ready to go dig through bins of forgotten travel gear and secondhand state treasures, here’s everything you need to know before you head out.
Address:
📍 Texas State Surplus Store
6506 Bolm Rd, Austin, TX 78721
Hours:
Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Closed on weekends, so plan your visit on a weekday.
Parking:
Free and super easy. There’s a decent-sized lot right out front.
Pricing:
No admission fee—just pay for whatever quirky stuff you walk out with.
Prices range from a couple bucks for TSA odds and ends to hundreds for bigger items like office furniture or gym equipment.
Payment:
They take cash and credit cards, but no checks.
Shopping tips:
Bring gloves if you plan to dig through the tool bins as they can be a little greasy.
You can’t haggle, but the prices are already low, so it’s still a steal.
All sales are final, so inspect your finds before you buy.
There’s no delivery or shipping—what you buy, you take home.
Pro tip:
Check the Texas Facilities Commission website before you go. They sometimes list special sales or big-ticket items online so you can preview what’s in stock.
It’s unique, chaotic, and honestly a blast—just don’t be surprised if you leave with a knife, a filing cabinet, and a bag full of confiscated corkscrews.
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