Sinterklaas loves giving, but he also loves recycling. That is why he likes to send his helpers to the charity shop. Not only to hand in toys (It is also from), but also to score the most fun, original and surprising presents. We dived into the thrift store shelves and collected the nicest Sinterklaas presents from the thrift store for in the shoe and on Christmas Eve.
Second-hand gifts with St Nicholas: ‘we find it quite common’
We all give a mountain of presents at Sinterklaas, but the reality is: many of them end up unused in the cupboard. According to Milieu Centraal, only half of Dutch people appreciate all the presents they receive. And almost a third even use less than half of what they receive. A shame, right? Especially when you consider that 61% are open to a second-hand gift and that almost everyone (94%) prefers to get something they will actually use. More and more people realise that it is not about the price or shine of a gift, but about the attention and intention. So why not opt for a recycled treasure with character, instead of a new trinket that might go unused anyway?
The best Sinterklaas presents can be found at the thrift store
On the hunt for original, sustainable and affordable outfits? The charity shop is your secret weapon. We list the best finds for your shoe and for Christmas Eve.
Puzzles & board games
Chances are you'll score a gem at the thrift store for next to nothing. Seriously: many games can be found there for less than three euros, while you will pay at least 20 euros for them in the shop. Think of classics such as Catan, Maze, Monopoly or Dr. Bibber, but also today's popular games from brands such as 999 Games, Haba, Jumbo, Mattel or Ravensburger. Good thrift shops often check that everything is complete. And okay, a thousand-piece puzzle may well have one missing. But hey, you just make up that last piece. The fun of puzzling is no less!
Second-hand children's books
Children's books, read-aloud books, picture books, comic books... You can find them all and often in surprisingly good condition. Most thrift shops have a separate book section, and it is usually huge. Piles of books are brought in every day, including popular titles and complete series. From educational science books to exciting adventures: perfect for in the shoe or as a gift on Christmas Eve.
Great Sinterklaas gifts
Marvel at what you can find in terms of bigger gifts at the thrift store. Nerf guns, Lego, Duplo, Barbies, dollhouses, wigwam tents, kids' kitchens and even VTech toys: you'll come across it all for a fraction of the new price. Some shops even re-seal it neatly! Still, it is useful to check everything carefully for completeness and function. Or ask about the return policy. At many thrift shops, you can simply return the item with the receipt.
Shoe presents
The thrift store is also a great place for little shoe moments. Small cars, mini-Rubik's Cubes, puzzles, finger puppets or even a dress-up accessory: it's all there. Tip: bundle a few small things in a reusable bag and put it in a shoe.
You can find second-hand gifts for Sinterklaas at a bargain at the thrift store and searching is also a super fun activity. Tip: go during the week, as weekends (especially in November and December) can be very busy.
Cuddles
Every thrift store has one: one of those big bins full of soft animals. Feel free to dive in, because with a bit of luck you will fish out a beautiful bear, a soft llama or a classic rabbit. Sometimes even an old Disney cuddly toy that you can no longer find anywhere new. A quick spin in the washing machine at 30 degrees and they will be fresh and ready for a new cuddly life.
Scoring Sinterklaas presents at the thrift shop
Sinterklaas is becoming more and more sustainable. And the thrift shop is his secret. Whether you are looking for a small shoe present or a big present: second-hand is often just as much fun (or more fun!), much more affordable and better for the planet. So grab your shopper, dive into the thrift store and surprise yourself and the recipient. Because when you give smart, you give with a story!
More sustainable tips for the holidays
- Also see: this is how to give a second-hand gift for the holidays (Giving and wrapping tips).
- Also see: These second-hand Christmas goodies can be found at the thrift store.
- Also see: your thrift store gifts naturally include better chocolate letters. A list!
Sources: Milieu Centraal. Photo credits: thegreenlist.nl.
