When you're looking for a luxury bag, the prices are often far from affordable if you have to get by on an average income. But that doesn't mean you necessarily have to go without a designer handbag, as everyone should know. Besides financing and other routes, there has long been the option of buying expensive bags used. That's not only cheaper but of course has sustainable aspects too. But buying expensive bags used doesn't have only advantages. Here you'll find out what to weigh up.

The advantages are obvious

Expensive bags used

Buying expensive bags used has several advantages. For one, it's much more sustainable, since the bag has already been produced and no additional resources are wasted making something that's already sitting unused in a closet somewhere else. And we all know that the environment is an important matter that needs protecting. But there are other advantages too. Because used bags from luxury makers like Prada, Gucci and co. are also much cheaper secondhand. So by buying a used bag you save real money. And in that price segment, savings of around 30-70 percent can definitely matter for your own wallet.

Since this kind of bag is often cherished and well cared for, your new bag doesn't even have to look like it had an owner before. A good used bag doesn't have to hurt your image in the slightest. It's also great that if you buy the piece cheaply and treat it well while carrying it, there's a good chance you can resell it in the end, should you want to, with only a small financial loss.
By buying cheaply, you spare yourself a long savings goal or, in some cases, financing a bag that would have cost you even more in the end than buying a new bag from a retailer.

Disadvantages of used bags

Expensive bags used

When you buy expensive bags used, there are of course a few pitfalls too, especially if you buy the item online. For one, you don't see the bag in person. So be sure to look closely at the photos and don't skim over anything in the description. If it's a private seller, ask explicitly about defects and signs of wear. Have the condition of the bag documented and described in detail. That way you can be sure your new bag lives up to its promise.

You should also be careful with payment. That's why it's recommended to buy used bags from a reputable dealer. They're often more expensive than comparable offers from private individuals, but here you can be sure you're not dealing with a scammer.

Watch out for authenticity too. If a bag is offered at a ridiculously low price, you can assume something is fishy. So always buy with buyer protection, and never agree to dubious upfront-payment arrangements.

Advantages:

  • much cheaper
  • more sustainable than buying new
  • often no loss in quality

Disadvantages:

  • risk from scammers
  • condition not always as described

Whether buying a used bag is worth it for you is something everyone has to weigh individually. Especially when price matters, though, it can be a good option.