As a frugal shopper, my favorite activity is shopping second hand. Consignment shops, garage sales, flea markets – they all get me really excited! There’s just something about heading out to shop, not knowing what, if anything, you’re going to find, and discovering exceptional deals in the process. I’d take second hand shopping over retail shopping any day of the week.
Shopping second hand excites me for more than just its money-saving qualities, though. Here are eight reasons shopping second hand is the only way to shop!
1. Affordability
While an obvious reason, there’s no denying it’s a big one. Shopping thrift stores, yard sales and other second-hand shops allows your dollar to stretch much further. I don’t know about you, but I’d much rather get several outfits at Goodwill over just one at retail prices.
2. The Thrill
This is the fun part! You just never know what you’re going to find. There are a lot of gems just waiting to be found when you shop second hand. The thrill of the hunt is addicting!
3. Community Support
When you shop second hand, your money stays in the community where it does the most good. Local businesses and charities benefit from your patronage.
4. Quality
While it’s true there’s a lot of junk to be found at second hand shops, it’s actually easier to spot good quality items. Since everything is already broken in, you can tell which merchandise is made better than others.
5. Eco-Friendly
This is a definite bonus. When you shop second hand, you are actually saving the environment. Less things get hauled to the dump when their owners decide they are finished with them. On the other end of the spectrum, when you donate the items you’re finished with, you’re doing your part to help the environment. It’s a lovely circle that benefits everyone all the way around!
6. Customer Service
I don’t know if you’ve noticed or not, but customer service seems to be quite high when you shop second hand. The atmosphere in most used-item venues is friendly and relaxing. Getting help is much easier, too.
7. Brand Names
If you’re not against doing a little digging, you can find some really awesome deals on brand name items. You don’t need to shop all the brand name stores to dress like you’ve spent a small fortune on your clothes. As a matter of fact, I refuse to shop the mall for clothing. My 16-year old daughter refuses to wear anything but brand name clothing. The compromise? She shops second hand with me and finds unbelievable prices on all the clothes she loves to wear and none of her friends are the wiser.
8. Variety
New merchandise arrives daily. You could shop the same consignment shop every single day and find new things. It never gets old!
Shopping second hand used to have a bad reputation, but these days, even those with plenty of money shop second hand stores. Choosing to shop second hand does more than just save you money: it’s a great way to boost the economy and save the environment, too!
Photo Credit: Thinkstock
