The art of regifting: tips and etiquette for Hongkongers with presents they don’t want
Regifting saves money, clears space in your home and is better for the environment. But there are many things that can go wrong, so avoid embarrassment and post-holiday faux pas with our how-to guide
Raise your hand if you’ve regifted an item to a friend or family member this Christmas.
The good news is you’re not alone. Regifting is no longer a social faux pas thanks to changing attitudes towards waste and sustainability (who says you can only recycle plastic?) It’s also a great option when you’re on a budget and can help free up space in your home or wardrobe.
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When done right, it can even bring joy to its new recipient – as the saying goes, one person’s trash is another’s treasure.
Despite its multitude of benefits, there are also many things that can go wrong when regifting. To avoid any embarrassing moments or mishaps, there are a few dos and don’ts you should follow to ensure a smooth transition from one owner to the next.
First, always keep a detailed record of when you received a gift and from whom it was given.
“Before I put the item away, I label it with a Post-it note and secure it with tape so it doesn’t fall off,” says stylist Samantha Chan. “I always jot down who gave it to me and when, so I avoid giving it back to the same person. Be sure to remove the note before you wrap the gift.”