I love going to second hand stores for Jars, especially for quarts which you will want for Pickles. Then you just need to buy new lids at the market and voila, you just saved your self $8/case! But if you are into specialty sizes Fred Meyer can be a good option, even Safeway and Thriftways. I know Metropolitan Market has some fancy versions as does PCC!

Big Johns PFI for vinegar--good-quality stuff by the gallon, cheap.

If you just want to cut to the chase and not mess with the hit-or-miss selection of jars at thrift stores, McLendon's Hardware stores always have a good selection of them in all sizes.

For spices..."best" and "cheapest" may not be the same thing. I won't go anywhere for spices but World Spice on Western Avenue, behind the Market. Some of their prices are a little higher than grocery store brands--and some aren't--but the quality and freshness are vastly superior. They have a great Pickling Spice blend that I've used, but if you want to mix your own, they have everything you're likely to need. Check out their collection of business cards from the chefs and restaurant buyers who shop there--you'll see many of the top restaurants in town. Or just step inside the shop and take a whiff--they could charge for that alone, the place smells so good!

Agreed with the PFI. Cash & Carry may have a deal on mason jars, as well.