Second Hand September: 10 Tips Towards Great Savings

1. What Is Second Hand September?

Second Hand September is a movement launched by Oxfam to encourage people to stop buying new clothes for 30 days and instead embrace the world of second-hand shopping. Celebrated every September, the initiative promotes sustainability, conscious consumerism, and reducing waste — all while saving money.

With fast fashion contributing significantly to global carbon emissions and landfill waste, Second Hand September is a chance to break the habit of impulsive buying and discover the power of reuse. It’s not just about clothing — furniture, electronics, books, baby gear, and even garden tools can be bought pre-loved.

2. Why Join Second Hand September?

Participating in Second Hand September is about more than just cutting costs — it’s a lifestyle choice with wide-reaching benefits:

🌍 Environmental Impact: Reduces demand for new manufacturing.
💸 Financial Savings: Used items cost a fraction of new ones.
💚 Sustainable Living: Promotes conscious consumption.
💃 Unique Style: Discover rare or vintage pieces.
🔄 Circular Economy: Keeps items in use longer and out of landfills.

This initiative invites everyone — from students on a budget to eco-conscious families — to rethink the way we shop and spend.

3. The Benefits of Buying Second-Hand

Before diving into tips, it’s essential to understand just how beneficial second-hand shopping can be:

Financial

Save up to 70–90% on many items.
Avoid full retail markups.
Find high-end brands at budget prices.

Environmental

Reduce water and energy usage tied to manufacturing.
Lower your carbon footprint.
Minimize textile and electronic waste.

Social

Support charity shops and local sellers.
Contribute to circular economy models.
Inspire others through your example.

Now, let’s explore the top 10 tips that will help you save money and thrive during Second Hand September!

4. Tip 1: Make a List and Set a Budget

Starting with a plan prevents impulsive purchases, even in thrift stores. Ask yourself:

What do I really need this month?
Are there items I can wait to purchase?
How much can I realistically spend?

🎯 Create a Budget

Break it down into categories:
Clothing – £50
Household items – £30
Books & entertainment – £20

This approach helps keep your second-hand shopping focused and financially sound.

5. Tip 2: Know Where to Shop Smart

Second-hand doesn’t mean second-best — if you know where to look!

🛒 Top Places to Shop Second-Hand

Charity Shops (Oxfam, British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK)
Car Boot Sales – Great for bargain hunters.
Thrift Stores – Look for large branches for variety.
Flea Markets – Great for vintage or collectables.
Facebook Marketplace – Local deals without shipping.
Vinted & Depop – Trendy clothes and accessories.
eBay UK – Ideal for hard-to-find items.
Gumtree – A wide variety of used goods.
Freecycle / Freegle – Get things for free!

Knowing your options ensures you can compare prices, check for quality, and make smart decisions.

6. Tip 3: Master the Art of Thrifting

Thrifting is both a science and an art. Here’s how to become a pro:

👕 Tips for Better Thrifting

Go frequently: Stock rotates fast.
Visit different towns: Variety changes by location.
Check all sizes: Sizing varies by brand and era.
Touch the fabrics: Feel for quality.
Scan entire racks: Gems are often hidden between unremarkable items.

Take your time — it’s a treasure hunt, after all.

7. Tip 4: Learn to Spot Quality Items

Not everything second-hand is worth buying. Develop a keen eye for durable, valuable goods.

🔍 What to Look For:

Stitching: Avoid loose threads or fraying.
Materials: Prefer wool, leather, denim, and cotton.
Labels: Recognize high-end or vintage brands.
Zippers & Buttons: Ensure they’re functional.
Stains or Odors: These are hard to remove.

For furniture or electronics, test before buying if possible.

8. Tip 5: Try Online Second-Hand Platforms

While charity shops are great, online marketplaces bring the second-hand revolution to your fingertips.

🌐 Best Platforms in the UK:

Vinted – No seller fees, great for clothes.
eBay UK – Auctions and “Buy It Now” options.
Depop – Youthful styles and streetwear.
Facebook Marketplace – Local finds with no shipping cost.
Shpock – Local classified ads with a mobile-first approach.

Remember to always check seller ratings and ask for clear photos.

9. Tip 6: Time Your Shopping Right

Timing can be everything when bargain hunting.

🕒 When to Shop:

Midweek: Shops are less crowded.
End of the month: Sellers want to declutter before payday.
Post-holiday: People donate unwanted gifts or clear out.
Morning hours: Best pick of new stock.
Season changeovers: Look for off-season sales.

If shopping online, set alerts for specific items and act quickly.

10. Tip 7: Haggle, But Politely

Negotiation is an accepted part of second-hand culture — especially in person.

🤝 How to Haggle Respectfully:

Start with a smile and polite tone.
Offer 10–20% less and be ready to compromise.
Point out any flaws that justify a lower price.
Don’t lowball on already cheap items — be fair.

Most sellers will welcome friendly negotiation, especially at car boot sales or on Facebook Marketplace.

11. Tip 8: Repurpose and Upcycle

Sometimes an item doesn’t need to be perfect — it needs potential.

🔧 Upcycling Ideas:

A wooden ladder becomes a bookshelf.
Old jeans become tote bags.
Mismatched chairs get a fun paint job.
Jars become storage or plant pots.

Pinterest and YouTube are full of DIY upcycle tutorials — perfect for making the most of what you find.

12. Tip 9: Don’t Forget Big-Ticket Items

Second-hand shopping isn’t limited to clothes or small items — think big too!

💺 Furniture

Used sofas, tables, and chairs can be cleaned, reupholstered, or painted for huge savings.

📺 Electronics

Phones, tablets, laptops — check for working condition, charger inclusion, and return policy.

🧸 Baby Gear

Prams, high chairs, and baby clothes are often barely used. Just be sure items meet safety standards.

Always check return policies if buying from online platforms or resale stores.

13. Tip 10: Get Social — Join Local Groups

Facebook groups, WhatsApp swaps, and local charity shop communities are gold mines for deals and information.

👥 Benefits of Joining Groups:

Early alerts on giveaways or sales.
Freecycling and swaps with your neighbours.
Support and tips from like-minded bargain hunters.
Event info about local jumble sales or community markets.

You can also start your own “Second Hand September” challenge with friends or colleagues — share finds, trade items, and support each other.

14. Bonus Tip: Give Back — Donate What You Don’t Need

Saving money is great, but giving back completes the cycle.

🎁 How to Donate Smartly:

Give only clean, working items.
Check what your local charity shop accepts.
Sort items seasonally — donate coats in winter, sandals in summer.
Use clothing banks or arrange for collection if donating furniture.

Decluttering also creates space for new second-hand finds!

15. Final Thoughts on Saving Big This Second Hand September

Second Hand September isn’t just a temporary challenge — it can be a springboard to year-round savings, more mindful consumer habits, and a healthier planet.

With a bit of planning, a willingness to explore, and some creativity, you can discover:

Unique treasures
Major financial savings
A stronger connection to your local community
A reduced environmental impact

By embracing the world of second-hand, you’re not just saving money — you’re investing in a better future.