Oxfam’s guide to second hand gifts | 10 ideas

Second hand gifts don't mean second best. If you have a budget to stick to, shopping second hand is the most ethical option. But there’s so much value to second hand gifts beyond their price. You could find a rare or unique item with a history and story to tell.

Thoughtful gifts shouldn’t be about how much you spend, but an opportunity to show the person how well you know them and care about them. Be a part of Oxfam’s mission to de-stigmatise second hand by shopping second hand gifts for birthdays or Christmas!

1. Vintage jewellery

If you’re looking for a sentimental gift, jewellery is a lovely option. When you’re hunting for second hand jewellery, you can find unique, statement pieces and even gorgeous vintage jewellery.

2. Accessories

Gift hunting for a second hand fashion lover? Don’t worry about what size they are by finding the perfect accessory. Discover handbags, sunglasses and scarves for her, or belts, wallets and men’s sunglasses for him.

3. Vintage vinyls

Any vinyl collector is always happy to add to their collection. Find something sentimental you know they’ll love or help them discover a new band. Browse genres like jazz, hip hop, classical and rock vinyl.

4. Artwork

There’s something for everyone’s taste when it comes to second hand artwork. Even finding second hand frames and adding your own photographs makes a personalised, budget friendly gift.

5. Board games 

Board games are always a top gift for birthdays or Christmas. Shopping second hand for board games means you’ll find classics for less, or retro games that are hard to find.

6. Ceramics 

Ceramics make great second hand gifts as they are a lovely addition to anyone’s home. Ceramics could be vintage plates, vases, mugs or decorative figurines.

7. Retro vases

You can never have too many vases! If you’re hunting for a unique vase, looking for second hand glassware is your best bet if you’re sticking to a budget. Fill the vase with flowers from a local florist to make a heartfelt gift idea.

8. Nostalgic memorabilia

Give a nostalgic gift that reminds them of their childhood, or a piece of memorabilia to add to their collection. The Oxfam Online Shop is a go-to for collectors because you can find coins, comics, autographs and so much more!

9. Signed editions of books

Show someone how well you know them with a signed edition of their favourite book. You could be a new release from their favourite author or a signed edition of a childhood book.

10. Coffee table books

Books are essential to making a house a home. Find gorgeous decorative books for someone’s coffee table or shelves. It could be fashion books, antiquarian books or art and photography books.

The way a gift is wrapped can make a huge impact. Great wrapping could make any gift look expensive or thoughtful. Spending time on those finishing touches will show the person you really care. But how can you wrap gifts without adding unnecessary plastic?

You could try wrapping gifts with second hand fabric. Check out our Instagram post here for ideas. You can also shop Oxfam’s ethically sourced, recycled wrapping paper and tags. Instead of plastic bows, try some foliage from your garden to add a pretty but natural touch.