Second-Hand Shopping in Sweden

So you just moved to Sweden, or you’re planning to. You’ve spent a considerable chunk of money paying rent. Now you figured that you need to furnish your apartment, purchase kitchenware, buy yourself some jackets and boots, and probably a bicycle to move around. But there’s just one BIG problem…you are on a budget! If these few lines describe you, you may want to consider second-hand shopping.

Written by Ezinne Edet

Sweden is big on sustainability, and sustainable practices like waste sorting and second-hand shopping are almost a norm. Besides buying vintage products at a bargain price, shopping second-hand helps reduce carbon emissions, saves resources, and prevents waste. Here are popular places for second-hand shopping in Sweden.

1. Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is one of the most popular places to shop for second-hand items in Sweden. Whether you are looking to buy clothing, books, furniture, household equipment, shoes, kitchenware, bicycles, cars, or children’s toys, this is your one-stop shop. More so, you may get high-quality items for free (gratis) if you are lucky.

2. Blocket

Blocket is a massive second-hand site where you can buy fairly-used cars, furniture, bicycles, electronics, and more. To shop on Blocket, you need to register on the site by entering some personal details, however, registration is absolutely free. After you have registered, enter your location, what you are searching for, and click away!

3. Sellpy

Sellpy is an online store for buying second-hand items like clothing, accessories, and footwear. On this site, you will find second-hand items from popular brands like Zara, H&M, ARKET, Ralph Lauren, Nike, Adidas, Monki, and the likes. The great part is that you get the same quality at a very affordable price.

4. Tradera

Tradera is an online marketplace where you can easily buy second-hand items. You can search for anything on the site, from kitchenware, clothing items, footwear, antiques, to accessories. Tradera also has an app that you can download on Applestore or Playstore.

5. Second-Hand Stores

If you are not a fan of online shopping, you are always welcome to shop in a brick-and-mortar second-hand store. Nearly every city in Sweden (if not all) has a second-hand store. You can find the closest one to you by doing a quick Google search or by checking out any of these ones recommended by The Newbie Guide to Sweden team.

• Erikshjälpen: If you are in Gothenburg or its environs, you may want to check out Erikshjälpen. Their stores are located in the city center, Västra Frölunda, and Kungsbacka. They sell mostly clothing for children and adults, antiques, kitchenware, furniture, footwear, and toys. Their items are usually neat and prices are very affordable. Have a look at Erikshjälpen website as they have many stores around the country and also an online butik.
• Stadsmissionen: They sell everything from clothes to interior designs at a very affordable price. If you are in Gothenburg or Stockholm, you may want to check out their branches scattered around the cities. You can also donate some items that you no longer use to the store.

• Myrorna: You can find this store in nearly all of the big cities in Sweden. Their store in Gothenburg has four floors! The first floor has all the furniture, textiles, and kitchenware. From the second floor and up you can find a great selection of clothes beautifully displayed by color.
• Beyond Retro: If you are a vintage clothing lover, this store is a must-visit. Their prices may not be as budget-friendly, but you will find a range of special pieces.
• Arkivet: This is one of the most fashionable second-hand stores in Sweden. They sell a great variety of clothes from popular brands, and the best part is that their clothes are way cheaper and always in perfect condition!
• Busfrö: You can find their stores in many cities in Sweden, they usually have clothes for children, women and men, and also items for the house.

6. Pop-Up Stores/ Flea Markets

Pop-up stores/flea markets, popularly called loppis, are common during the summer. Here, you can shop for reasonably-priced antiques, vintage accessories, crafts, bags, clothing, and other second-hand items. These pop-up stores/ flea markets are usually temporary setups organized by apartments, neighbourhoods, or individuals.

Did you know that second-hand shopping is also a way to donate to charity? Most second-hand stores in Sweden are set up to raise funds and make donations to charitable causes across the globe. So, when you purchase second-hand items, you are not just getting value for money, but also making a difference in someone’s life.

Now, over to you. If you are not in Sweden, leave a comment to tell us how second-hand shopping is done in your country. If you are in Sweden, let us know your favourite places to shop for second-hand items and why.