Trade and barter in Vancouver

Vancouver apartments are small and rent is not, so almost every trade here is really a space trade. Downtown, the West End, Mount Pleasant and Kitsilano are full of people swapping a bulky item they've outgrown for something that fits in a closet — a road bike for a paddleboard, a desk for a monitor arm, a bread machine for camping gear.

The outdoor culture drives the listing mix. Skis and boards move in October, tents, kayaks and hiking packs move in May, and rain gear moves all year. If you have gear you used twice, someone in Commercial-Drive or North Van wants it and has something you'd rather own.

Meeting up is simple along the SkyTrain and the seawall — Waterfront, Broadway-City Hall, Metrotown or a Main Street coffee shop all work. Bring the item, look it over together, and swap on the spot.