Holiday Shopping with a Twist: Second-Hand Items Gaining Popularity
Who said Christmas gifts have to be brand new? With the change of times, more and more people are turning to second-hand stores for their holiday shopping needs. According to a recent study by Amazon, a massive 59% of respondents are actively looking for used and refurbished bargains!
Going Green and Saving a Buck
The eco-conscious among us are no strangers to this trend. Over a third of people (43%) even say they always start their shopping journey with used items first. This budget-friendly approach is likely to be under German Christmas trees this year, too.
Embracing the Second-Hand Trend
Now, half of those surveyed (53%) can envision giving a high-quality second-hand Christmas present. Last year, the number was a mere 23%. That's a significant increase in enthusiasm for purchasing these items.
A whopping 95% of online shoppers compare the prices of used items with new ones. Of those, an impressive 31% are committed to never paying the full price.
The Most Wanted Second-Hand Items
Amazon has seen a 10% increase in second-hand sales in the first nine months of the year. The study highlights the top-selling second-hand categories for 2023.
- Electronics for the Home: Fully automatic coffee machines, hot air fryers, smart lights, and vacuum robots with mopping functions
- IT: Fitness wristbands and tablet accessories
- Entertainment: Wireless headphones, tablets, and game consoles
Looking Beyond the Freshly Unwrapped
Beyond the popular items listed above, here are some other second-hand picks that have been making waves on Amazon:
- Cast Iron Skillet: One of the most durable and versatile kitchen tools, the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is a top-rated item for overall cooking performance.
- Digital Kitchen Scale: A small yet mighty kitchen gadget, the compact digital kitchen scale is user-friendly and portable, making it a quick-to-use must-have for any cook.
- Cosrx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence: This popular skincare serum delivers an intense hydrating boost, making it a hit among celebrities and Amazon reviewers alike.
So, go ahead and explore the world of second-hand shopping for this year's Christmas gifts. You'll be saving a few bucks while giving a second life to sought-after items. Happy (cost-effective) hunting!
Sources: and additional research
Enrichment Data:
- Home and Kitchen Items:
- Multicooker: It's a multi-functional device that can cook, steam, fry, and slow-cook. Popular models like Instant Pot and Ninja Foodi are known for their ease of use and diverse cooking capabilities[4].
- Crock Pot Slow Cooker (Large Size): This slow cooker is perfect for busy people looking to create nutritious meals in their spare time[4].
- Air Fryer: Air fryers offer a healthier alternative to deep-frying by circulating hot air around food, resulting in crispy and delicious food with fewer calories[4].
- Personal Care and Beauty:
- Beautyblender: This spongy makeup applicator is loved by many for its easy, flawless application results[5].
- Essential Oil Diffuser: Diffusers revitalize spaces, allowing individuals to create custom fragrances or enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy[5].
- Naturally Derived Shampoo and Conditioner Set: Organic and eco-friendly shampoo and conditioner sets are an excellent alternative for those looking for chemical-free options[5].
- Electronics and Gadgets:
- Laptop Cooling Pad: A compact and portable device that reduces internal heat and keeps laptops working at their best while on the go[6].
- VR Headset: At-home virtual reality experiences offer a captivating escape from reality, making them a popular choice for gamers and movie enthusiasts[6].
- Fashion and Comfort:
- Designer Sunglasses: Second-hand sunglasses from popular designers like Ray-Ban, Gucci, and Prada are easy to find and offer a more affordable way to indulge in the luxury of designer eyewear[7].
- Big Size Comfy Slipper: Soft, cozy, and functional, big size comfy slippers are the perfect addition for those long winter nights[7].
- Pet Accessories:
- Pet Carrier Bag: A well-designed pet carrier is a must-have for pet owners who travel or need to take their pets along for doctor visits. Koala Pet Carriers and Petmate Pet Glider are popular options among consumers[8].
As mentioned earlier, these items are not specifically labeled as second-hand, but they are highly sought after and popular on second-hand shopping platforms.
