If you’re searching for the best thrift stores in Phnom Penh, you’re in for a fun, slightly chaotic, treasure-hunt experience.
Thrifting Phnom Penh-style is not polished, curated, or aesthetic in the Instagram sense — and honestly, that’s exactly why it’s amazing. You dig. Explore. You sometimes leave empty-handed… and sometimes you walk out with the best outfit you’ve ever owned for the price of a coffee.
Unlike cities where second-hand shopping is trendy (and expensive), a second hand shopping experience in Phnom Penh feels raw, authentic, and refreshingly affordable. It’s sustainable, budget-friendly, and surprisingly addictive once you start.
Whether you’re a digital nomad, expat, traveler, or local looking to shop smarter, this guide will show you exactly where to go, what to expect, and how to score the best finds without feeling overwhelmed.
And if you want to explore more sustainable travel tips for Phnom Penh, check out my article on The Best Vegan Restaurants in Phnom Penh.
How to Shop Second Hand in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is wonderfully unique. Second-hand shopping has been around for years, but it’s not always obvious where to start — especially if you’re used to neat vintage boutiques or charity shops back home.
There are four main ways to go thrifting in Phnom Penh (in my opinion):
- Clothes swaps
- Dedicated second-hand stores
- Outlet shops & market vendors selling second-hand bales
- Facebook moving or decluttering sales
To be honest, I mostly stick to the first two. The outlet scene can feel intimidating — lots of Khmer signage, chaotic piles, and not always clear if items are sustainable second-hand or factory surplus. But if you love the thrill of digging, you might strike gold.
Tips for Thrifting in Phnom Penh
Before you dive in, here are some tips for shopping at thrift stores in Phnom Penh that will save you time, money, and mild frustration:
- It’s MUCH cheaper than thrifting in Western countries.
In places like South Africa, Europe, or the U.S., curated thrift shops can be shockingly expensive. In Phnom Penh, true second-hand shopping still feels like real thrifting — you hunt for gems, but when you find them, they’re CHEAP.
- Don’t haggle in stores.
Prices are usually already fair. If something feels too expensive, just skip it and move on.
- Be a respectful shopper.
If you try something on, hang it back neatly. Don’t toss items on the floor or rails.
- Don’t expect luxury fitting rooms.
Many shops — especially the Japanese sakura thrift store Phnom Penh branches — don’t have changing rooms. Wear leggings and a tank top so you can try clothes over your outfit.
- Visit often.
Stock changes constantly. A store that felt disappointing last week could be incredible today.
- Go in with an open mind.
You might not find exactly what you imagined — but you might find something even better.
- Because items are cheap, it’s a great way to explore new styles/pieces.
1. Clothes Swaps – A Free Sustainable Alternative to Thrift Stores in Phnom Penh
I had never heard of clothes swaps before arriving in Phnom Penh, but they’re huge in some expat circles — and honestly, I LOVE them.
A clothes swap is exactly what it sounds like:
- Everyone brings clothes they no longer want/are willing to part with
- Items are displayed together
- Once everyone arrives, swapping begins
- At the end, if you want to take any of your leftover pieces home, you can
- Usally, leftover pieces people don’t want to take are donated to charities
Good etiquette:
- Take only what you need
- Ideally take the same number of items you brought
- If multiple people want something, be kind and communicate
- Try items on — sometimes they look better on someone else
These events are surprisingly wholesome. You get fashion advice, encouragement, and a lot of supportive femme energy — often from total strangers.
2. Best Thrift Stores in Phnom Penh to Visit (my go-to list of second hand shops in Phnom Penh)
1. Clothesline Boutique TTP (2nd Hand & Eco Shop)
This is hands-down one of my favorite second-hand shops in the city.
They carefully curate pieces, which means:
✔ Higher quality
✔ Western sizes (hallelujah)
✔ Stylish everyday clothing
✔ Natural fabrics like cotton and linen are often in stock
Prices are slightly higher than bale-style shops but still far cheaper than buying new from brands like H&M or Zara.
The shop also sells:
- Shoes
- Jewelry
- Books
- Accessories
- Home items
They donate unsold clothing and are very community-focused. Plus, the staff (and owners) are genuinely lovely. The whole place feels cozy and welcoming — not intimidating at all.
2. Sakura Recycle Shop Japan (multiple branches)
If you’re Googling “sakura thrift store Phnom Penh”, this is probably what you’re looking for.
Sakura Recycle Shop Japan has MANY locations across the city (and country), making it one of the most accessible second-hand shop options.
They sell practically everything:
- Clothing
- Shoes
- Furniture
- Kitchenware
- Electronics
- Home decor
- Random treasures you didn’t know you needed
These shops are hit-or-miss. Sometimes you’ll find nothing. Other times you’ll leave with a pile of amazing bargains for under $20.
Prices are generally very affordable, though premium items cost a bit more (still cheaper than buying new).
These shops don’t have fitting rooms (I haven’t found any with fitting rooms). So dress appropriately to easily try on clothing over leggings and tank tops.
Honorable mentions
These aren’t at the top of my personal list but are still worth checking out:
- Cat Ladies of Cambodia at Bong Bonlai — smaller selection but supports a great cause
- Marie Vintage Thrift — good finds if you’re nearby
- Eco Town — similar to Sakura but often less consistent in sizing and style
3. Shop at outlet shops & bale vendors (not the same as thrift stores in Phnom Penh)
This is where thrifting Phnom Penh becomes… adventurous.
Many outlet shops sell clothing as “new,” but it’s actually imported second-hand bales. Locals often prefer buying “new,” so shops don’t always advertise items as pre-owned.
Expect:
- Disorganized piles
- Limited English (writing or speaking)
- Lots of digging
- Potentially incredible deals
Some outlets also sell factory surplus from brands like Adidas or Nike. Whether that aligns with your sustainability goals is a personal decision.
Recommended by long-term residents (I haven’t personally explored these yet):
- JFL Secondhand Fashion Store
- Ary Son Factory Outlet (Facebook) – I think this one has a physical location but I haven’t managed to find it
- M Brand Outlet (Facebook)
4. Facebook decluttering & moving sales
If you live here, Facebook is basically the backbone of Cambodian life.
Join local groups (especially women-focused ones like Phnom penh Ladies), and you’ll regularly see posts from people:
- Moving abroad
- Downsizing
- Clearing wardrobes/Decluttering
- Selling furniture
Prices vary, but you can find amazing quality pieces — often barely worn.
Where can I find affordable secondhand clothing shops in Phnom Penh?
Affordable options exist all over the city, but your best bets are:
- Sakura Recycle Shop Japan branches
- Clothesline Boutique TTP
- Local bale markets and outlet stores
- Facebook groups and Marketplace
The key is persistence. Thrifting here isn’t a one-stop trip — it’s an ongoing adventure.
Where to find affordable pre-owned furniture in Phnom Penh?
Furniture thrifting is a little trickier but still doable.
Start with:
- Sakura Recycle Shop Japan branches (selection varies)
- Facebook Marketplace
- Moving sales in expat groups
- Japanese second-hand stores like Happy Japan and Eco Town locations
Again — Facebook is your secret weapon.
Final thoughts: Why Thrift Stores in Phnom Penh is worth it
Thrifting in Phnom Penh isn’t polished or predictable. It’s messy, surprising, sometimes frustrating… yet incredibly rewarding.
- You save money.
- You reduce waste.
- You discover unique pieces no one else has.
- And you get to experience a side of the city that most tourists never see.
If you’ve been hesitant to explore the thrift stores in Phnom Penh, consider this your sign to start. Go in with patience, curiosity, and zero expectations — that’s when the magic happens.
Found an amazing thrift spot I didn’t mention? Tell me in the comments — I’m always hunting for new places to explore.
Want more Phnom Penh insider guides, hidden gems, and budget-friendly tips? Follow along and check out my other posts. Your next favorite discovery might be just one click away.
Happy thrifting!
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