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With significant supply chain disruptions and empty shelves everywhere, this holiday season may not feel very festive. Just the other day, I found myself staring at an empty salt aisle at Wal-Mart. Yes, salt. Of all things! So unless you’ve been ahead of the game and did your holiday shopping back in August like a true elf, you might be feeling the pressure right about now. But don’t panic just yet; there’s a better way to navigate this holiday season without resorting to gifting those dreaded Dollar General socks. Instead, you can embrace a “new-to-you” Christmas, which not only helps you find what you need but is also good for the planet.
Now, I know this might sound strange—sort of like regifting but with a whiff of that familiar thrift store aroma. But hear me out, the holidays are approaching, and it’s time to adapt. Supply chains are faltering, fast fashion is wreaking havoc on our environment, and let’s face it, your fighting skills may not be enough to claim that last Olaf plushie. So, let’s explore some creative options for a New-To-You Christmas in 2021.
Option 1: eBay
Hoping to snag a Nintendo Switch? New ones are going for over $500 on eBay right now. But if you’re open to a used console with a guarantee, you can score one for around $330, or even lower if you’re okay with a more worn version. Trust me, your kid won’t mind unwrapping a pre-owned game console this Christmas, especially if it looks almost new.
eBay is a treasure trove for all kinds of gently used items, from computers to gaming consoles and even electronic drum kits, most of which come with a guarantee. While prices might be higher due to ongoing supply issues, you’ll still find items that are sold out in stores.
When it comes to toys, rest assured your toddler won’t care if her Elsa dress was previously owned—just give it a good wash first! If your child is asking for Jurassic Park dinosaurs, they won’t notice if they come in battered packaging, especially if you can afford to get them more. Opting for new-to-you items not only helps you dodge supply chain headaches but also saves you some cash.
LEGO Lovers Unite
LEGO Rooms are all the rage this year! Transform that unused dining room into a LEGO paradise. If you haven’t heard of BrickLink yet, you’re in for a treat. This platform allows sellers to list not just complete sets but also individual LEGO pieces and minifigs. With over 17,000 sets available, including a plethora of Star Wars and LEGO Friends options, you’re sure to find something your child will adore.
Got too many LEGOs already? You can also find MOCs—custom-built sets with instructions. For a fun project, you could gather pieces your kid already owns and buy the rest from BrickLink, creating a unique set that no one else has. It’s a win-win scenario!
Clothes, Clothes, Clothes
When it comes to clothing, eBay is just one option. You could also check out ThredUp or PoshMark for secondhand treasures. These platforms allow you to search for exactly what you want—whether it’s a specific pair of John Fluevog shoes or that cozy green coat you’ve been eyeing. Being specific about what you want will save you time and ensure you’re satisfied with your purchase.
New-To-You Can Mean Vintage
A vintage gift can carry much more meaning than something brand new. For instance, I once treated myself to a David Bowie Reality Tour poster as a birthday gift—totally worth it! Consider surprising your child with a retro Chewbacca action figure or getting your teen a vintage pop-punk T-shirt. And don’t forget to explore Etsy, where you can find unique, modified vintage items that add a special touch to your gifts.
New-to-you doesn’t have to mean dingy or worn-out. It can be a stunning flannel shirt from Etsy or a barely-used game console. The best part? Your kids won’t mind that their toys have had a previous owner, especially if you don’t mention it.
In this season of giving, let’s remember that we have plenty of unused items lying around. By purchasing used, you not only help the environment—reducing fossil fuel consumption, water usage, and plastic waste—but also support small businesses rather than massive corporations.
So this holiday season, consider shifting your focus from shiny new products to unique, pre-owned treasures. It’s a more affordable, eco-friendly, and thoughtful way to celebrate.
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