Date published: 16 April 2026
Nurse Hayley Timmis is a huge fan of preloved items with local car boot sales, Facebook Marketplace and the second hand app Vinted proving particularly rich pickings.
Her best ever buy was a sheepskin rug - which cost more than £300 originally - for just £2 from a jumble sale.
Hayley has also been able to kit her daughter April out in style for horse riding, picking up top quality riding boots for just under £25 (RRP £80). A savvy choice when children grow so quickly.
“I have found some incredible bargains for us both. April loves horses but they are an expensive hobby. Buying what she needs second hand leaves money over for me to pay for lessons. And being able to find good quality coats and boots for me means I can join her at the stables and stay warm and dry.”
Hayley discovered a brand new waxed jacket for £68 (RRP £319), and boots for less than half the RRP of £379.
“They were even in the original box! So much of what’s available has never even been worn. There’s no need to spend a fortune.”
Hayley’s top tips to bag a bargain
- Sundays are prime time for purchases online.
- If you’re buying brands, use an authentication service. This is an optional, paid service available on some sites.
- Be aware of potential scams. Avoid using friends and family options on digital and online wallet systems if the person is not known to you.
- When buying or selling in person, meet in a public