8 Items To Buy Secondhand on eBay To Maximize Savings This Winter
Written by
Virginia Anderson
Edited by
Cory Dudak
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Winter brings expectations of shorter days, colder temperatures and, of course, the holiday season. To get through it, you may find yourself spending a little more money than you’d like. There are presents to buy and winter sports to enjoy, after all.
But if paying retail prices is a little outside your budget, consider another solution — eBay. There, you’ll find lots of gently used items at affordable prices. Here are a few to consider when buying new isn’t a priority.
1. Snow Boots
Snow isn’t a constant for everyone. If you live in the South, you might see it once or twice during the entire winter season, so forking out hundreds of dollars for a pair of brand-new snow boots might not be something you’re willing to do.
On eBay, you’ll find tons of winter boots in all different styles and sizes — many of them for less than $20 or $30. That’s a great deal if you don’t need to wear them that often, or if you’re planning a quick holiday getaway to a snowy locale.
2. Ski Jacket
It’s not unusual to pay $200 or more for a brand-new ski jacket that insulates you against snow, water and wind, especially if you’re shopping at a sporting goods store. You can find much better prices if you’re willing to buy used, however.
There are hundreds of fully insulated ski jackets from top brands on eBay, including Columbia and Patagonia. Even better? Many of them are priced under $50. That’s a real discount — and you’re still getting a high-quality coat.
3. Christmas Tree
During the holiday season, many consumers flock to buy Christmas trees for their homes. But those trees can be expensive. A basic 7.5-foot, prelit, artificial tree can set you back $200, and if you move up to a bigger size — say, 9 feet — expect to pay $400 at minimum if purchasing new. Even if you opt for a fresh-cut, live version, you may pay $50 or more for a tree that won’t last more than a few weeks in your home.
That’s where eBay can help. Through eBay, you can rehome a used, artificial, prelit Christmas tree for less than $50. At the end of the season, just box it back up for next year!
4. Wool Sweater
A classic Fair Isle sweater offers the ultimate in weather clothing. It’s warm, comfy and shields you against cold wind and rainy days. But it’s also expensive. Expect to pay $200 at minimum, and that’s before factoring in any shipping fees.
Instead of going all-in on a full-price wool sweater, give eBay a shot. You’ll find hundreds of options in varying sizes and styles for less than $50.
5. Skis
Planning a skiing getaway this winter? While you can probably rent a pair of skis from the resort, the costs can quickly add up, especially if you plan on staying for more than a few days — or returning for a second trip before the season ends. And if you decide to buy your own pair, you can expect to shell out $400 or more at a retail store. That’s before factoring in other pieces of equipment, like gloves and a helmet.
Fortunately, eBay has you covered. You’ll find dozens of listings for used skis for as little as $100.
6. Holiday Decor
Wreaths, lights, ornaments, stockings and yard decorations — these are all used to decorate the home during the holiday season — but their costs can quickly add up, especially if you missed out on last year’s after-holiday sale.
Rather than forking out retail prices, head to eBay. You’ll find tons of holiday decorations to choose from, many at cheap prices.
7. Special Dinner Plates
Sitting down for a dinner served on special porcelain or china plates is a tradition you may look forward to. However, if it’s your first time hosting your family and friends, you may not have an expensive, holiday-themed dinnerware set at home.
Instead of shelling out hundreds of dollars on Thanksgiving or Christmas dishes from your favorite store, give eBay a look. You’ll find thousands of budget-friendly plates, bowls and casserole dishes that can make your next holiday meal a memorable one.
8. Gaming Console
Is a new PlayStation 5 at the top of your kid’s wish list? See if they’re open to an older refurbished model instead. On eBay, you’ll find thousands of used, working game consoles of every type, from the PlayStation 4 to the Nintendo Switch. Bonus: The money you’re saving can go toward buying a few extra games to keep them entertained during the dead of the winter.
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