One of the biggest shocks for international students is walking into their new Dutch room and finding it completely empty—and by empty, we mean really empty. No bed, no desk, and often no curtains or even flooring (just the concrete subfloor!).
Unless you have rented "furnished" accommodation (common for first-year internationals), you will likely need to build your own home from scratch. Here is how to do it without breaking the bank.
1. The "Bare Room" Reality
In the Netherlands, it is common to rent an "unfurnished" (kaal) room. This means the previous tenant took everything, including the laminate flooring they installed.
- What to check: When viewing a room, always ask if the flooring and curtains are included or if you need to buy them from the departing tenant (overname).
2. IKEA: The Gold Standard
Most students start at IKEA.
- Locations: There are major stores in or near every student city (Amsterdam, Utrecht, Delft, Groningen, etc.).
- Delivery: IKEA offers delivery services, but it can be expensive (€40+).
- Pro Tip: Check the "Circular Hub" (formerly the "As-is" section) near the checkout for discounted floor models or slightly damaged items.
3. Marktplaats: The Dutch eBay
Marktplaats is where the real deals are. It is the most popular second-hand marketplace in the country.
- How to search: Search for keywords like gratis (free), bedbank (sofa bed), or bureau (desk).
- Logistics: You will usually need to pick up items yourself. If you don't have a car, consider renting a Brenger (a delivery service for large items) or a cargo bike (Bakfiets).
Avoid "Marktplaats scams." Never pay in advance for a second-hand item. Pay in person when you collect the furniture.
4. Kringloopwinkels (Thrift Stores)
The Netherlands has a fantastic network of thrift stores called Kringloopwinkels.
- What to find: Great for chairs, tables, kitchenware, and lamps.
- Delivery: Many larger Kringloops offer cheap local delivery (usually €15-€25) if you buy multiple items.
- Top Chains: Look for Rataplan, Het Goed, or local independent shops.
5. Buying from the Previous Tenant (Overname)
When a student leaves a room, they often want to sell their furniture to the next person to avoid moving it.
- Negotiate: Don't be afraid to haggle. They are in a rush to leave, so you can often get a whole room's worth of furniture for €100-€200.
- Flooring: If the floor is in good condition, it’s almost always worth buying it from them rather than installing a new one yourself.
Need help moving your furniture?
Our roadmap includes a list of affordable van rental companies and student moving services.
6. Budget Checklist for a Bare Room
| Item | Source | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Laminate Flooring | Gamma / Praxis | €5 - €15 per m² |
| Basic Bed Frame | IKEA (Neiden) | €50 - €80 |
| Desk | Marktplaats | €10 - €30 |
| Office Chair | Kringloop | €15 - €25 |
| Curtains | HEMA / IKEA | €20 - €40 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get furniture for free?
Yes! Check "Gratis op te halen" groups on Facebook or the "Gratis" section on Marktplaats. Near the end of the month, people often leave perfectly good furniture on the street for the trash—keep your eyes peeled!
How do I transport furniture without a car?
Rent a 'Bakfiets' (cargo bike), use the 'Brenger' app, or rent a small van from companies like 'Sixt' or 'Adrie Jonker' (local cheap options).
Where can I buy cheap electronics?
For kettles, toasters, and lights, check Action—it is the cheapest discount store in the Netherlands.