11 Common Items You Should Never Buy New
Save big by buying these 11 items secondhand.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Not everything is worth paying the full price—some items depreciate fast, while others are just as good used. Whether furniture, tech, or even cars, buying secondhand can save you a fortune. Here are 11 everyday items that make way more sense to buy pre-owned.
1. Cars
Antoni Shkraba on Pexels
The moment a new car leaves the lot, it loses thousands in value. Buying a slightly used model—just a year or two old—can save you big while still getting modern features. Certified pre-owned programs even offer warranties, making used cars a smart financial choice.
2. Furniture
Antoni Shkraba on Pexels
Brand-new furniture comes with steep markups, especially for high-quality pieces. Secondhand options from thrift stores, estate sales, or online marketplaces often offer solid wood or vintage finds at a fraction of the price.
3. Textbooks
Kaboompics.com on Pexels
College books cost a fortune, but they’re rarely used beyond one semester. Buying used textbooks—or renting them—can cut costs dramatically. Many online platforms even offer digital copies for a fraction of the price.
4. Tools
Gustavo Fring on Pexels
Hand and power tools are built to last, so buying them secondhand can save you big. Garage sales, pawn shops, and even estate sales often have barely used tools at bargain prices.
5. Exercise Equipment
Anastasia Shuraeva on Pexels
Treadmills, weights, and stationary bikes often end up collecting dust in people’s homes. That’s why the secondhand market is full of nearly new workout gear at a steep discount.
6. Designer Clothing
Max Fischer on Pexels
Luxury brands charge a premium, but you can find like-new designer clothes for a fraction of the price at consignment shops or online resale platforms. Many items have barely been worn, especially formalwear or seasonal pieces.
7. Baby Gear
Greta Hoffman on Pexels
Babies outgrow everything fast, making secondhand baby items a huge money-saver. Strollers, high chairs, and baby clothes are often in great shape after minimal use.
8. Bicycles
Alexander Dummer on Pexels
New bikes can be pricey, but used ones are often just as good with a little maintenance. Many people buy expensive bikes, use them a few times, and then sell them at a discount.
9. Jewelry
MART PRODUCTION on Pexels
Retail jewelry prices include massive markups, sometimes double or triple the actual value. Buying secondhand from estate sales, pawn shops, or reputable online dealers can save you thousands.
10. Musical Instruments
abdo alshreef on Pexels
From guitars to pianos, new instruments can be shockingly expensive. Used instruments, especially from experienced musicians, are often well-maintained and cost far less.
11. Camping Gear
Scott Goodwill on Unsplash
Tents, backpacks, and sleeping bags are built to withstand the elements, so secondhand gear often has plenty of life left. Many outdoor enthusiasts upgrade their equipment frequently, meaning you can score high-quality brands at a significant discount.