Never Pay Full Price Again: 27 Second-Hand Scores to Grab

Buying second-hand is now a clever and useful way to spend less and help the planet. Rather than always buying new, more people use thrift shops, online sales, and yard sales to find lightly used items for much cheaper.

Choosing second-hand saves money, cuts waste in dumps, and helps local areas. You might also find special or old items that are one-of-a-kind. Before you visit a store or buy something new, think about these second-hand choices that are worth checking out.

Ready to give second-hand shopping a try and see what treasures you can find? Let’s take a look at some of the best items to buy used, and how you can get the most value out of them.

Books

If you love reading or collecting books, second-hand books let you grow your own library without spending too much. Used bookstores and library sales are packed with all kinds of books, from bestsellers to rare old editions.

Sites like ThriftBooks and AbeBooks help you find books that are no longer printed or tough to locate.

Before buying, look for missing pages, damage, or mold. A little wear gives a book charm, but make sure it’s still easy to read.

Electronics

Used electronics are another way to keep costs low. Buying second-hand can mean big savings while still getting good quality items like phones, laptops, or game systems. Always buy from trusted sellers and test devices to make sure they work well.

Refurbished items are a smart choice since they’ve been checked and include guarantees.

Sites like Swappa and Gazelle focus on used electronics, making them great spots to find your next gadget.

Children’s Toys and Clothes

Children grow quickly, so they often need new things before their old toys and clothes are worn out. Used items are ideal for parents who want to save money on things that won’t be used for long. You can find lightly used baby items, books, and learning toys.

When buying used toys, make sure all parts are there and avoid small pieces that could be dangerous. Check for safety recalls and clean items well. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and local swap events are good places to look.

Cars

The moment a new car leaves the lot, it loses value, which makes buying second-hand a smart option. Cars lose on average 15% of their value annually.

By purchasing a used car, you can avoid that initial depreciation and still get a reliable vehicle for a much lower price. Certified pre-owned cars offer extra peace of mind, often coming with warranties and thorough inspections.

Before buying a used car, always research the vehicle’s history using resources like CARFAX, have a mechanic check it out, and pay attention to the mileage and model reliability. You can find great deals at dealerships, through private sellers, or on online platforms like Carvana.

Furniture

Buying second-hand furniture is one of the best ways to find high-quality, durable pieces that can last much longer than some mass-produced new items. Vintage or antique furniture is often made with better craftsmanship, and it adds character and personality to your home. 

Second-hand options can offer more style for less money even if you’re simply furnishing an entire room or looking for a statement piece.

When shopping for used furniture, be sure to inspect wooden pieces for damage like cracks or loose joints. For upholstered furniture, check the condition of the fabric and be cautious with items like mattresses or pillows for hygiene reasons. 

Thrift stores, online marketplaces, and garage sales are excellent places to start your search.

Clothing

Buying used clothes is a smart way to spend less while being kind to the planet. Many luxury and designer brands sell second-hand, so you can get stylish, quality items at much lower prices.

Special pieces like event outfits, leather coats, and jeans last a long time, which makes them perfect for buying used.

Check the stitching, zippers, and general quality to make sure you’re getting a good item. Thrift stores, resale shops, and sites like Poshmark or eBay are great places to look, and you can search online from your house.

Jewelry

Buying used jewelry lets you get special items, usually for much less than new ones.
Older jewelry can show more style and better quality, making it a smart buy.

When you shop, always check if it’s real with a jeweler and look for loose gems or damage.
Estate sales, auctions, and trusted online sites are top spots to find used jewelry you can trust.

Home Décor

Making your home feel personal doesn’t need to break the bank. Used home items like art, lamps, vases, and mirrors are easy to find and often have special charm. You can fix or change most of these to match your taste.

Check for damage before buying and see if you can repair it. Thrift shops, flea markets, and online shops are great places to find hidden décor treasures.

Rugs

Large rugs or high-quality rugs can come with a hefty price tag, but second-hand options can offer significant savings. Vintage or hand-woven rugs often improve with age, making them a beautiful and practical choice for your home.

When buying second-hand rugs, check for stains, wear, or damage before making a purchase. Estate sales, online platforms, and second-hand furniture stores are the best places to hunt for high-quality rugs at reasonable prices.

Home Gym Equipment

Creating a home gym can be expensive, but buying used gym gear is a simple way to cut costs. Things like weight benches, kettlebells, and resistance bands are often barely used and sold for much less than new ones.

Check the gear for damage, make sure it’s safe, and confirm it works well before buying. Garage sales, used sports stores, and online sellers usually offer plenty of well-kept home gym items.

House and Lot

You can get these used for much less than building or buying new. Older houses in settled areas often have grown gardens and unique style, giving more worth for your cash.

When buying a used house and land, always have a full check-up, look at how solid it is, and learn about its past and price.

Agents, online home sites, and nearby sales are great places to find used homes that fit what you want.

Appliances

Buying used appliances is a clever way to cut costs, particularly for pricey things such as fridges, microwaves, or washing machines. Many lightly used appliances still work well for years, yet cost far less.

Always check how old the appliance is and if it uses energy wisely, and try to get a guarantee if you can. Online shops, stores with pre-owned sections, and yard sales are good spots to get these bargains.

Sporting Equipment

Sporting goods can be expensive, especially for hobbies that don’t end up sticking. That’s why second-hand sporting equipment is a great option. Bicycles, weights, tennis rackets, and skis are just a few examples of items that are often lightly used and can be found at a much lower cost.

Before purchasing, inspect the equipment for rust, wear, or broken parts to ensure it’s still functional. Second-hand sporting goods stores, garage sales, and online platforms often have a wide selection to choose from.

Musical Instruments

Starting a new hobby can be expensive, especially when it comes to musical instruments. Buying second-hand is an excellent way to get a quality instrument at a much lower price, especially for beginners. Popular instruments like guitars, keyboards, and violins tend to hold their value over time.

Before purchasing, have the instrument checked for tuning, strings, or dents. Some instruments may need minor repairs, but this can still be more cost-effective than buying new. Music stores, pawn shops, and online platforms are good places to start your search.

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Tools

For DIYers or homeowners, second-hand tools can be just as reliable as new ones at a fraction of the cost. High-cost tools like drills, saws, or power washers are often bought for one-time projects, making them easy to find in excellent condition.

When shopping for used tools, check for rust or broken parts and ensure the tool still functions properly. Garage sales, estate sales, and specialized second-hand tool shops are often stocked with quality equipment at unbeatable prices.

Kitchenware

You don’t need to pay a lot for basic kitchen tools. You can find used pots, pans, and utensils-even good brands-at thrift shops, estate sales, or online.

When picking out kitchen items, look for scratches on non-stick surfaces and make sure handles and other parts are strong. Many second-hand kitchen tools still work well and can help you save money in your kitchen.

Gardening Tools

Gardening tools such as shovels, pruners, and lawnmowers can cost a lot when bought new, but used ones are often in good shape. People often buy tools for just one job, so they’re barely used when sold again.

Check tools for rust or other problems and make sure they’re still sharp and work well. Neighborhood yard sales, used tool stores, and online groups are great spots to find low-cost gardening tools that are ready to go.

Baby Gear

Babies outgrow their gear quickly, making second-hand strollers, cribs, and swings a great way to save money. It’s practical and often gives parents access to quality items at a fraction of the cost.

When shopping for baby gear, always check for recalls and make sure everything meets current safety standards. Sanitize and inspect the items for broken or worn parts before use. You can find these items at consignment shops, online platforms, and parent-to-parent groups.

Cameras

For photography enthusiasts, second-hand cameras and equipment can be a great investment. Many high-quality brands are built to last, and you can find excellent used lenses and accessories without breaking the bank.

Always check the camera’s functionality and inspect the lenses for scratches. Camera stores, photography groups, and online marketplaces like eBay are great places to score deals on second-hand photography gear.

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Camping Gear

If you’re an occasional camper, buying second-hand gear can save you a lot of money. Tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, and portable stoves are just a few examples of camping essentials that you can often find in great condition.

Be sure to check for any damage like broken zippers or leaks before making a purchase. Outdoor gear stores, second-hand sporting goods stores, and online groups are excellent sources for used camping gear.

Luggage

Used luggage can save you a lot of money, especially for top brands built to last. Strong suitcases, travel bags, and duffels often hold up over years and can be bought for much less than new ones.

When looking for used luggage, test the zippers, wheels, and handles to ensure they work properly. You can find good prices at thrift shops, estate sales, and websites that focus on travel items.

Watches

If you want a luxury or vintage watch, used ones can cost much less and still have great quality. Watches kept in good condition keep their worth and add style and usefulness to your collection.

Before buying a used watch, get it verified for authenticity and tested to work right. Estate sales, online auctions, and stores selling pre-owned jewelry often have many high-quality watches at good prices.

Bikes

Used bikes can be a great deal, especially for top brands or kids. Children grow fast, and older bikes give the same good ride for less money.

Check brakes, tires, and frames for damage before buying. A bike shop can fix it up if needed. Look for used bikes at shops, yard sales, or online.

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Pet Supplies

Pets can cost a lot, but used pet items like crates, beds, and toys help save money. Many are barely used and still work great, making sure your pet gets what they need without spending too much.

Always clean used pet items well before using them, and check beds or crates for damage. Pet resale shops, online groups, and local sales are good spots to find cheap, gently used pet supplies.

Office Furniture

Setting up a home office can be pricey, but buying second-hand office furniture is a great way to cut costs. Items like chairs, desks, and filing cabinets are often sold by businesses that are downsizing or closing, meaning they can be high-quality and durable.

When purchasing second-hand office furniture, check for ergonomic features and any visible wear or tear. Office supply stores, auctions, and online platforms frequently offer deals on second-hand furniture that still has plenty of life left.

Exercise Equipment

Many people purchase exercise equipment with good intentions but rarely use it, making second-hand exercise gear a great find. You can often find lightly used equipment at a fraction of the original price like treadmills, weights, or yoga gear.

Before buying, inspect the equipment for wear, rust, or damage, and ensure any electronics still function properly. Gyms upgrading their equipment, online marketplaces, and garage sales are excellent sources for affordable, second-hand fitness gear.

Holiday Decorations

Holiday decorations can cost a lot, but you can usually find used ornaments, lights, and wreaths for much less. Shopping for used decorations can also help you find old or special items that make your seasonal decor even more charming.

When buying used holiday decorations, test string lights to see if they work and look for any damage. Thrift stores, estate sales, and online holiday stores are good spots to get festive items cheaply.

A Smart and Sustainable Choice

Buying used isn’t just a smart way to save money, it’s also a planet-friendly move that cuts waste and gives items another chance. By looking at used choices for stuff like furniture or cars, you can get good-quality things without paying a lot.

Next time you need something, try used options first. Just check items well before buying and stick to reliable sellers.

With some time and care, you can get what you need for much less money.

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AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.