#USA #Seattle #holiday shopping #OfferUp #Recommerce Report

Americans Embrace Secondhand Marketplaces This Holiday Season

As the holiday shopping season approaches, Americans are increasingly seeking budget-friendly options to fulfill their gifting needs. According to OfferUp's recently published 2026 Holiday Recommerce Report, about 51% of shoppers are willing to seek out the exact gifts they desire at more affordable prices on secondhand marketplaces, demonstrating a significant shift in consumer behavior compared to previous years. This trend reflects a growing awareness of rising costs and the desire to avoid overspending during a time often associated with financial strain.

The Shift Towards Resale Items

The findings from OfferUp's report indicate that 81% of Americans are considering purchasing resale items, especially when looking for items that may be sold out or hard to find in traditional retail stores. Amid concerns of escalating holiday prices, where 77% of shoppers express worries, the appeal of secondhand marketplaces is stronger than ever. Many consumers are realizing that they can give loved ones a special gift without succumbing to the pressures of high retail prices.

In light of this trend, 80% of those surveyed plan to allocate a portion of their holiday budgeting specifically toward secondhand purchases. This marks a notable increase in the acceptance of gifting secondhand items, with more than a third of respondents (37%) stating they intend to buy more secondhand gifts compared to the previous holiday season. As Todd Dunlap, CEO of OfferUp, encapsulates, "The holidays should be about giving people something they'll love, but we understand how much financial stress this time of year can bring."

Financial Considerations and Consumer Choices

With rising costs prompting shoppers to rethink their strategies, the report reveals that 38% of Americans express a preference for higher-end, name-brand items from resale markets over purchasing less expensive alternatives from traditional retailers—especially among younger generations such as Gen Z, who stand at 50%. The survey also highlights that nearly half of Americans are more inclined to purchase from secondhand sources when they find unique or discontinued items available for less.

In a further reflection of changing priorities, 44% predict they will incur credit card debt to cover holiday gifts, with 54% of those anticipating financial strain believing it will take three months to pay off said debt. Therefore, the motive behind opting for secondhand gifts is not merely about saving money; it also aligns with a broader financial strategy to avoid debt and overspending.

Selling to Fund Holiday Shopping

Surprisingly, the trend isn't solely one-way—shoppers are also looking at decluttering their homes. According to the 2026 Recommerce Report, a staggering 95% of respondents have items at home that they could potentially resell to fund their holiday shopping endeavors. In fact, 42% plan to sell gifts from previous years, showcasing an active engagement in the secondhand economy.

The approach to holiday shopping is becoming a more multifaceted process, as consumers leverage secondhand platforms to find specific gifts that remain elusive in retail stores. About 81% of those surveyed are likely to explore these markets for sought-after items that might have sold out with typical retailers.

Compliance with Speedy Gifts

With impending shipping deadlines fast approaching, 75% of respondents express they are at least somewhat likely to turn to local secondhand marketplaces if their online orders aren't scheduled to arrive in time. This urgency for acquiring gifts that meet holiday deadlines points to the practical appeal of utilizing accessible secondhand networks.

Next-Gen Shopping Trends

Shoppers are also increasingly integrating tech into their purchasing journeys. Over 60% report that they already look to compare prices on secondhand platforms before committing to buy during major retail events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Interestingly, many want to see AI-driven recommendations for secondhand options alongside traditional retail suggestions while searching for gifts this holiday season.

As we redefine how we shop during the holidays, it's clear secondhand items are not just viable alternatives—they are becoming preferred options for many. A combination of smarter financial decisions, a desire for unique gifts, and an environmentally sustainable approach makes this holiday season a turning point for shopping habits.

For anyone looking for a cost-effective, unique, and sustainable way to celebrate the season, reviewing what's available in local secondhand marketplaces can be a fulfilling solution. Renowned platforms like OfferUp are at the forefront of this trend, providing a space for consumers to connect over shared interests while accessing gifts that won’t break the bank.

To explore secondhand offerings this holiday season, visit the OfferUp marketplace at offerup.com.