Few things match the delight of a stack of beautifully wrapped presents beneath the holiday tree. But buying gifts for the season can be anxiety-inducing — particularly with the rising cost of living squeezing holiday budgets. While secondhand presents were once frowned upon by some, they’ve grown widely acceptable for many shoppers.
A recent study from OfferUp shows that consumers in 2024 are more inclined than ever to purchase pre-owned gifts for friends and family. If funds are tight this year, opting for secondhand items can deliver substantial savings.
Top Easy Ways to Earn Extra Cash for the Holidays
Even the savviest bargain hunter can overshoot their holiday budget. From taking short surveys to completing simple online tasks or sharing candid opinions, quick-earning methods can help cover the cost of thrifted finds.
What Shoppers Think About Secondhand Presents
Pre-owned gifts are shedding the stigma of being cheap or impersonal. OfferUp’s survey revealed that 74% of shoppers believe giving used items has become more acceptable in the past year — a 7% uptick from 2023’s findings. Plus, 83% of respondents said they’d be open to receiving a secondhand gift from someone they care about, so you don’t have to stress about appearing stingy.
The research also showed that two out of three shoppers — and an impressive 83% of Gen Z buyers — intend to purchase holiday gifts secondhand this year. Many pointed to the rising cost of living as the primary motivator: 63% noted that higher expenses make them more likely to choose used presents over new ones.
However, price isn’t the only factor driving interest in pre-owned shopping this holiday season. Among those surveyed, 48% felt secondhand gifts deliver better value, while 40% liked that used items are often more distinctive than new ones. Finally, 31% said they enjoy the thrill of the hunt when searching for the ideal item from a secondhand seller.
6 Places to Discover High-Quality Secondhand Holiday Gifts
Ready to embrace gifting secondhand? Here are great places to uncover thoughtful presents for everyone on your list.
1. Thrift Stores
Your neighborhood thrift shop is a treasure trove for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. Look for toys, puzzles, art, home accents and books that fit your recipients’ tastes. Thrifted Christmas presents often cost just a fraction of brand-new options.
Don’t grab the first item you see just because it’s inexpensive. Even when buying pre-owned gifts, aim to pick something your friend, relative or coworker will genuinely appreciate.
2. Facebook Marketplace
While scrolling through your Facebook feed or reminiscing over old posts, hop over to Facebook Marketplace to search for secondhand holiday gifts. The site has its share of odd listings, but it’s also a source of hidden gems perfect for your gift list.
Be mindful of Marketplace scams. For local buys, meet the seller in a public, well-lit place so you can inspect the item before paying. If purchasing from a seller far away, use Facebook’s payment options or PayPal to keep the door open for reimbursement if the product isn’t as described.
3. Used Bookstores
A used bookstore is ideal for the readers in your life. You may even stumble upon a rare or special edition of a beloved title, making for a treasured gift.
Many secondhand bookstores also carry games, toys, vinyl records, posters and apparel. With a bit of luck, you can finish multiple gifts in one stop.
4. Etsy or eBay
Etsy and eBay both host thousands of listings for pre-owned goods. If you have a specific idea for a present, search these platforms to see what’s available.
You can also browse their used sections to uncover something unexpected that matches your recipient’s tastes. The perfect gift often appears when you’re least expecting it.
5. Buy Nothing Groups
If you haven’t joined a local Buy Nothing group, now’s a great time. The Buy Nothing Project connects neighbors across the country who give away items they no longer need for free to people in their community.
You can post a request for a particular item or sift through listings to find something that would delight someone on your holiday list.
6. Your Own Home
Don’t overlook your own home when searching for holiday gifts. Maybe you received a book you won’t read, or a bottle of spirits that isn’t to your taste — but it could be perfect for someone on your list.
Other hidden gift options around the house include mugs, candles, lotions, board games and craft kits.
Stretch Your Budget With Secondhand Holiday Shopping
Whether you’re living paycheck to paycheck or trimming expenses to save for a goal, choosing pre-owned gifts can significantly reduce holiday spending. And your thoughtfully selected, unique gift may be cherished as much as — or even more than — something brand-new.
So if you haven’t begun yet, write your list, check it twice, and visit your local secondhand shop!
Alex Morgan is a Certified Financial Education Instructor and freelance writer focusing on personal finance and home projects. They live in Ohio with their partner, two kids and two lively dogs.
