So, you’ve landed in a new city for a few weeks (or months), your Airbnb is cute but totally lacking essentials, and you're watching your budget like a hawk eyeing a chip. Sound familiar?
Let me introduce you to your new best friend: Buy Nothing groups.
These little local gems have saved me countless pounds (and headaches) while slow-travelling across the UK and beyond. And honestly? They've restored my faith in humanity more than once.
Let’s dive in, shall we?
What is a Buy Nothing group, anyway?
Buy Nothing groups are community-based networks (usually hosted on Facebook or via the BuyNothing app) where people give away items they no longer need—for free. Yep. No catch. No sneaky "just pay postage." Totally, gloriously, free.
You can also ask for things you need (within reason). Think of it as the opposite of online shopping: it’s people sharing what they already have, just because they can.
Why travellers should care
When you’re staying somewhere longer-term—say, a month or more—it’s surprising how quickly you realise what you’re missing. A kettle. A yoga mat. A fan. A spatula. A full-length mirror. A pair of rain boots (hi, England).
Instead of hitting up the nearest big-box shop or splashing out online, pop into your local Buy Nothing group and ask!
Here’s why it's brilliant for us travellers
It saves serious money: I once kitted out an entire kitchen corner with pots, pans, mugs and even a French press—all for free—from generous locals in Edinburgh.
It’s good for the planet: Reusing items already in circulation helps reduce waste and production demand. That’s fewer delivery vans and less plastic packaging.
It builds community: Locals love sharing with visitors who are respectful and kind. I've had people offer local tips, lend books, and even invite me for tea after a pick-up.
But is it safe?
Let’s be real—meeting strangers to collect things needs a bit of common sense. Here’s how I keep it safe and stress-free:
Public pickups: Whenever possible, arrange to collect from a porch, lobby, or public place. Many people do "porch pickups" so you don’t have to meet face-to-face.
Let someone know: Just like with any meet-up, let a friend know where you're going, or drop a pin. Safety first, folks.
Trust your gut: If something feels off about a message or a person, you’re not obligated to follow through. It's totally OK to politely cancel.
Be respectful: Don’t bombard people with messages or show up unannounced. A little manners go a long way!
A few basic Buy Nothing terms to know
Each group is a little different, but here are a few common words and etiquette tips:
ISO: "In Search Of" – You’re asking if anyone has something specific.
Offer: You’re offering something up for grabs.
Interested/Following: Comment these on posts if you'd like the item.
PPU: "Porch Pick-Up" – The item will be left outside for collection.
Next: If someone else is already interested, you can comment "Next" to join the queue.
Oh, and one golden rule: never offer money. It's all about gifting, not swapping or selling.
Real Talk: My Buy Nothing Haul in Brighton
During a one-month stay in Brighton, I joined the local group and posted a polite ISO: “Just arrived in town for a work stay—looking for a desk fan or floor lamp if anyone has one gathering dust!”
Within hours, I had:
A near-new standing fan (life-saver in the heatwave)
A funky retro lamp
Two houseplants (unexpected, but vibey)
And a lovely chat with a woman who also gave me directions to the best flat whites in town
Best part? When I left, I re-gifted everything back through the group, and someone else got to enjoy them too. Full circle!
Have you ever used a Buy Nothing group while travelling? Would you give it a go on your next long stay?
Drop your experiences or questions below—I love hearing your stories (especially the quirky ones… like the time someone offered up a haunted doll, but that’s a tale for another post).
