Most record stores have nice/selected CD sections that usually have better stuff than thrifts, for sure. In Des Moines, even curated pre-rec cassettes, of late!
I always look in thrift stores on the road for classical and jazz CDs. Occasional gems in some regions/cities. Did a Western trip last year (Denver, Flagstaff) where I got some wonderful classical CDs, I'm very picky anymore. The hardest part about thrift stores is trying to read the damn titles when on vertical shelving!
I usually don't buy much vinyl on trips because of car heat, unless it's the last day and we'll be air conditioned all the way home...