Most Tourists Buy Souvenirs. He Bought a Grab Uniform.
Forget fridge magnets or local snacks—one Singaporean tourist decided to bring home something far more unique from his Vietnam holiday: a Grab driver’s jacket.
And no, he did not just pick it up from a street market. He bought it off the driver’s back.
The TikTok video, posted by user @/retro__sg, shows the light-hearted moment unfold as he approaches a Grab rider in Vietnam and makes the unusual request. “I really want a Grab driver’s jacket,” he says early in the clip.
Moments later, mission accomplished.
Thrifting, But Make It International
Known for his thrifted fashion sense, the Singaporean is not new to sourcing odd pieces with character.
Most of his wardrobe, he claims, consists of clothing over 40 years old.
While he runs a Carousell store, it is mainly for vintage odds and ends—not fashion—so the iconic green Grab jacket hasn’t made it to the listing yet.
When commenters asked why he didn’t just buy a similar jacket from the market, he replied with trademark thrift-shop logic: prices are upped for tourists.
Online Reactions: “Why Not Ask for the Helmet Too?”
The clip, now circulating on Singapore TikTok, drew amused comments from viewers.
Some joked along the lines of, Why stop at the jacket? Should’ve asked for the helmet too! Others praised his boldness and eye for style.
A Jacket With a Story
Whether he ends up keeping it, wearing it ironically around town, or just tucking it away as a trophy from his trip, one thing is certain: it is a souvenir like no other.
And in true thrift-lover spirit, Mac from @/retro__sg turned a street interaction into a viral talking point—proof that with the right attitude, you can thrift literally anywhere.
The Culture of Thrifting: From Necessity to Identity
Once rooted in affordability, thrifting has evolved into a lifestyle embraced by younger generations seeking sustainability, self-expression, and style with substance. Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge, favouring secondhand pieces not just for the price, but for their uniqueness, durability, and environmental impact, says PlanetAid.
Whether it is called ngawul in Yogyakarta or thrift flipping on TikTok, the global secondhand movement thrives on the thrill of the hunt and the joy of repurposing what others overlook. In a world overwhelmed by fast fashion and waste, thrifting offers a stylish way to live lighter—and a little smarter.
Watch the video here:
@retro__sg best purchase of my trip
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
From Loyalty Tests to Roommate Impersonators: Singapore’s Quest App is Changing the Game
Adorable Duet with Toddler Shines Light on SG Street Performer ‘The Official Rex’
Heroic Rescue: Ilham Jufri Dashes Into Traffic to Save Dog After Hit-and-Run in Bedok
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Interested in advertising on our media channels? Reach out to us at admin@wakeup.sg!
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram and X!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
If you can, please do consider buying a mug or two to support Wake Up Singapore’s work!
