Want to get the most of a trip to the farmer's market? Pay attention to these details.

•Bring dollar bills. Many sellers have limited change.

•If in doubt, ask where the produce was grown.

•Most vendors have plastic bags, but it's helpful to bring a sturdy cloth bag so that ripe produce doesn't get bruised.

•If the market is one of several stops on an errand run, bring a cooler for your purchases.

•Field-fresh produce often is more fragile than produce sold in supermarkets, so treat it with care. The sooner you eat it, the better.

•Watch for under-the-table bargains. Sellers often have bruised or overripe fruits and vegetables (especially peaches and tomatoes) that they will discount. These are perfect for pies, cobblers, sauces or jams.