Ecofriendly, Inexpensive Gift Ideas: A List of the Best Secondhand Presents

Posted by Carla Marie Boulianne Dec 22, 2008

This year I purchased only one major gift new. Everything else came from local secondhand sources. While searching for used presents, I compiled a list of used gift ideas for my readers. The article suggests top Christmas presents for everyone on your gift list.

Here are some of my personal finds, proving that even with three children there can be an inexpensive, secondhand Christmas:

• Ice skates
• Action figures
• Dora the Explorer talking globe
• Board books
• Barbie Dream House
• Space lamp
• Word blocks
• Racecars and track

I'm still thinking about children's cross country skis.

For extended family, I purchased used:

• Power tools
• A giant scary sword (don't ask)
• Jewelry

What was the one new gift?

Gross Magic. My daughter has been asking for it since June, every time we visit the locally owned bookstore and toy emporium.

There is still time to shop used locally. Just check out Craigslist, Freecycle, and area pawnshops and thrift stores. Skip eBay; long distance purchases result in shipping emissions.

Merry Christmas!