Should You Give Secondhand Gifts?
Should you give secondhand gifts? YES, and I absolutely do! When it comes to gift-giving, there is so much pressure to buy something for everyone. Not only are thrifted gifts budget-friendly, they’re also a thoughtful and eco-conscious way to show you care. So, let’s talk about why secondhand gifts might just be the most special ones of all!
Prefer to listen instead? In this episode of the Sustainable in the Suburbs podcast, I take a deep dive into why secondhand gifts are the most eco-friendly choice, including listener stories,  practical ideas, and my own real-life secondhand wins — all to help you rethink what gifting can look like this season. Whether you’re new to the idea of secondhand gifting or already a Buy Nothing pro, this conversation offers encouragement, inspiration, and lots of doable takeaways.
Secondhand Gifts Are Environmentally Friendly
This is my number one reason for always shopping secondhand first. We all know that new products take energy, resources, and packaging to make and ship. By opting for a secondhand gift, you’re giving something a second life and reducing the demand for new items. It’s an easy way to cut down on waste and keep something in use and out of the landfill.
Thriftmas is Budget-Friendly
If you are looking to give meaningful gifts without breaking the bank, thrifting is a great option. You can find high-quality items at a fraction of the cost, leaving room in your budget for other things. There is really no need to break the bank over the holidays!
You Are Sure To Find Unique Treasures
Thrift stores are full of hidden gems you can’t find at big-box stores. From vintage teacups to quirky home décor, secondhand gifts often come with a charm all their own. These one-of-a-kind finds are perfect for making your gift stand out, and your friends or family will appreciate that you didn’t just grab something off the shelf.
Every Gift Has a Story
One of my favourite things about secondhand gifts is the story that comes with them – my grandmother called this “giving with a warm hand”. Whether it’s a vintage brooch or a retro board game, there’s just something special about a gift that carries a bit of history. Not only does it come with a story, but sharing that story with the recipient adds a personal touch.
Less Consumption, More Meaning
We live in a world where we’re constantly told to buy more and more, and thoughtless consumption has never been easier. Choosing secondhand gifts is a small act of rebellion against that. After all, the best gifts are the ones that come from the heart, not from the mall.
You Are Supporting Local Causes
Thrifted gifts show that you’ve put real time and thought into what you’re giving. You can even get crafty and turn a collection of interesting things into a cool little gift basket (which you can also find at the thrift store!).
Secondhand Gifts Are Creative
Many secondhand stores are linked to charities, meaning your purchase is doing double duty—helping the environment and giving back to your community. So that thrifted vase or vintage book isn’t just a gift for your loved one – it’s also contributing to a good cause!
10 Ideas for Secondhand Gifts
- Vintage Books – Old hardcover novels and reference books make great gifts!
- Antique Jewelry – Vintage jewelry pieces, from rings to brooches, make for beautiful and timeless gifts.
- Board Games and Puzzles – Look for complete, pre-loved games or pass along some of your own!
- Vintage Dishes – Thrifted dishes and antique glassware are unique and often have a lot of character.
- Cookware and Baking Supplies: Vintage cast iron, unique baking molds, or enamelware are great for food lovers and bakers.
- Crafting Kits or Supplies: For crafty friends, look for bundles of yarn, sewing patterns, or painting supplies.
- Upcycled Pots – Pair a unique pot with a houseplant or make custom candles in interesting glassware.
- Children’s Toys: Quality secondhand books and classic toys are always a hit with small children!
- Recipe Cards in a Vintage Recipe Box: Write favorite recipes on cards and store them in a beautiful, thrifted recipe box.
- Customized Frame with Artwork or Photos – Find a nice frame secondhand, then fill it with meaningful photos, a quote, or a small print of artwork the recipient loves.
Where To Find Secondhand Gifts
Here are some go-to places for finding quality secondhand gifts, whether you’re looking locally or online:
- Thrift Stores – You will find a wide variety of items here, from housewares to books and clothing.
- Consignment Stores – These shops often carry higher end and designer goods.
- Antique Shops – Curated collections of unique items – perfect for items with history and charm.
- Used Sporting Goods Stores – Stores like Play It Again Sports sell secondhand equipment for a variety of sports, perfect for the sports enthusiast in your life.
- Poshmark, Depop, and ThredUP – Secondhand clothing, shoes, accessories, and home fashions.
- eBay – eBay has everything from collectibles and vintage decor to clothing and records. You can filter by location or seller ratings to ensure you’re getting quality items.
- Etsy – An amazing variety of handmade goods, as well as a huge selection of vintage and secondhand items. Look for unique vintage jewelry, home decor, and collectible items.
- Facebook Marketplace – Facebook Marketplace lets you find local sellers, often at great prices. It’s an excellent source for furniture, decor, and sometimes vintage or collectible items.
- Buy Nothing Groups – Find your local Buy Nothing group on Facebook or the Buy Nothing app. Community members give away items they no longer need or ask if anyone has something they are looking for.
- Freecycle Network – Similar to Buy Nothing and more popular in certain areas.
Consider mixing things up this year by gifting secondhand treasures. It’s good for your wallet, the planet, and your community. Let’s normalize secondhand gifts and give thoughtfully, sustainably, and creatively this holiday season!
7 Comments