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11 Gift Ideas That Can Be Sustainably & Affordably Thrifted

Gift-giving can be a memorable and meaningful gesture to celebrate holidays or show some extra support.

However, gifting can also put quite a dent in our wallets, especially during holidays that call for multiple gifts. AND gifting can cause excess waste from unwanted items.

Shopping secondhand can be a great option that is budget friendly and sustainable!

graphic for secondhand gift idea blog post

Thrifting gifts gives items new lives and prevents items from ending up in landfills. Sometimes you can even find brand new items at a discounted rate!

In this blog post, we’ll explore the different kinds of items that you can find at thrift shops and why they make great gifts!

A List of Secondhand Gifts You Can Easily Find at Thrift Shops

These secondhand gift ideas are sure to be thoughtful and eco-conscious!

Vase

Find a cute secondhand vase and fill it with fresh flowers!

vase from secondhand store filled with flowers

Mugs

Thrift stores tend to have a number of unique mugs available. Purchase a mug, give it a good wash, and pair it with your favorite coffee, tea, or hot chocolate to make a cute gift basket! This is a great gift idea for any coffee lover, tea addict, or friends who love to be cozy!

Board Games

Nothing beats a fun board game night with friends and family. Thrift shops usually have a selection of classic board games that you can purchase for a fraction of their original cost. This gift idea is perfect for anyone who loves game nights or has a competitive nature.

Books

Thrift stores are treasure troves of used books that are waiting to be discovered. Whether your friend is a history buff or a lover of romance novels, you’re sure to find a book that suits their taste. The best part about gifting a book is that you can write a heartfelt note inside, making the gift extra special.

books at thrift shop

Scarves

For friends who love to stay cozy, look for scarves! Secondhand stores usually have scarves with fun patterns! This is a gift that can be practical, sustainable, and stylish!

Craft Supplies

If you have an artsy friend consider browsing for secondhand art supplies and making a craft gift basket! This could include makers, scrapbooking supplies, threads, sewing supplies, paints, or whatever your heart desires.

Home Decor

Another great gift option that you can find at thrift shops is home decor. You can find unique pieces that will add character to your friend’s home, like vintage picture frames, antique lamps, or even quirky wall art. This is an especially great option for wedding gifts or house warming gifts.

vintage home decor gifts from secondhand shop

Clothing

Thrift shops are also great places to find fashionable clothing pieces that won’t break the bank. You can find designer labels, trendy jackets, and even vintage accessories that will make your friend’s wardrobe stand out. Just make sure to carefully check the garment for holes, tears, and stains before buying.

Consider purchasing a unique jacket that they can pair with items they already have in their closet for increased sustainability!

secondhand jackets to give as sustainable gift

Journals

If you’ve got a creative friend who loves to write, consider looking for unused journals as your local secondhand shop! Pair this with some nice pens and create a meaningful gift that your loved one will actually use and appreciate.

Jewelry

Thrift stores can have unique pieces of jewelry including vintage, costume, and designer. Jewelry can make for a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves to accessorize. Pick something out that matches their personal sense of style.

Clocks

There are a lot of cool clocks that can be a great addition to any shelf or desk. Look for statement clocks for a memorable gift!

clocks from thrift store

Bags

It can be easy to find purses, bags, and backpacks at thrift shops! For anyone who is into designer brands this can be a great gift.

Shopping at thrift stores can be a gold mine for gift-giving opportunities. Not only can you find unique and one-of-a-kind items, but you’re also promoting sustainability and reducing waste.

With the variety of options that thrift shops offer, you’re sure to find something that will fit your budget and that your friend will love.

Next time you’re shopping for gifts, make sure to check out your local thrift store.