Rare vinyl records: where to find them and how to buy them. 5 options for those left waiting for their local vinyl store to finally get that one cool record

Vinyl records are a physical medium and of course the obvious thing to do when looking for one is visit your local record store. Most likely the record will be a little more expensive than the price that you saw on Amazon, but vinyl lovers are usually ready to pay ungodly prices for the music that can be found on Spotify for a much smaller monthly fee.

But what if the record you’re looking for is so niche it’s not in the catalogs of the stores you can visit, and on top of that Amazon does not deliver in your country!

For Parlaxy users, it’s a non-issue: whatever, we just find the thing we are looking for, even find the cheapest one, and ask a traveler to bring it to us on their way here! And we, as vinyl connoisseurs, have some suggestions for where to look for rare/cheap vinyl all around the world!

Spillers Records – Cardiff, UK

This one is better to visit in person if possible – for the vibes and for this store being the world's oldest vinyl store! But, of course, this article is for those who can’t be there with the snap of the fingers. So we still include this place in the list, because true fans know how iconic it is to have something from this store – even if bought online. So employ the help of a Parlaxy traveler and enjoy the extensive catalog of this landmark!

Vinyl newcomers Immediately after buying literally one record

Seriosha Record Shop – Havana, Cuba

Another unbelievably cool place is a little, but very famous among music people, a shop called Seriosha. Customers describe this place as more of a market where you can find vintage treasures cheaply, but the shop has a truly remarkable catalog of Cuban music. To buy something from this place you have to find a Parlaxy traveler that invites adventure – because it is really hard to locate, but we have a feeling that any traveler would be grateful for getting to learn and visit such an iconic space.

The Flip Side – Dubai, UAE

This is Dubai’s only independent record store. The Flip Side prides itself with a wide range of music available, but it is also a place where you can find rare Arab music: from classics to the most hyped and popular artists and bands. You know what to do!

Amoeba Music – chain store, USA

It is the world's biggest independent store you’re gonna need if you are looking for a record release of a band that existed only in this movie or TV show, or if you MUST be one of the very first to get the pre-order of your favorite artist. The store delivers online orders all across the US, so to buy something from them you only need to find a traveler coming from anywhere in the USA.

When you spent your entire paycheck at a records store but it’s okay because you’re just a chill guy who loves vinyl

Pet Sounds - Stockholm, Sweden

Another iconic place with a catalog that will impress even the skeptics. It has been one of the most important independent record shops in Stockholm since 1979 with a worldwide reputation and a stringent grading policy. If you’re looking for a record being brought to you from somewhere in Europe, look no further – you will definitely find whatever you’re looking for here. And here’s more: ask your traveler if he likes Quentin Tarantino! This shop is famously his favorite, and a Tarantino fan will be grateful to you for the tip!

Point of no return: you and your date are at your house, the vibes were vibing, but the male urge to explain your vinyl collection suddenly kicked in

Shopping for new vinyl is a delightful experience that shouldn't be limited by borders. Of course to be there in person, to touch the records, to smell the air is unmatched. But, unfortunately, ordering online sometimes is the only option. So contact these stores, create an order on Parlaxy and see if there’s anyone who can go to the store and buy the record for you! Good luck!