What can you collect – inspiration and ideas for collections. Find your niche and exchange items via Paczkomat®!
18 October 2025
Do you have a shelf at home that is bending under the weight of figurines, old games, or perhaps model cars? That's great, because it means you have a collector's streak in you! It's more than just hoarding stuff, it's a mega passion that allows you to capture memories, learn new things and meet people with similar interests. Sometimes it starts with one thing, and then... it just takes off! At InPost, we love collecting parcels and sending them all over the UK. Be inspired by our ideas and start searching for treasures that will bring you lots of fun.
How to choose a collecting niche that suits your interests and budget?
All right, where to begin? The most important rule is simple: follow what you are passionate about, not just what you can earn money from. Consider what brings you the most joy. Video games from your youth? Or perhaps old-school cameras? Think of something that will make you search the internet with excitement, wanting to get your hands on another unique item.
No ideas? Here are a few inspirations to get you started, from popular to more niche ones:
- Figurines and models – characters from films and comics, cool toy cars, painted board game figures – there's plenty to choose from! You can collect one specific series or specialise, e.g. only car models from the 1980s.
- Collectible cards Footballers, game characters – this world is captivating... It's a dynamic market where the value of cards can change from day to day, so excitement is guaranteed!
- Retro games and consoles – Returning to the classics is not just pure nostalgia, but also a cool option if you are thinking about investing. Complete boxed editions of old games can cost a fortune today.
- Building blocks – you can collect entire sets or hunt for unique, individual pieces for your own incredible creations, known as MOCs.
- Dolls and toys from years gone by – these are often true gems of design and a ticket to a sentimental journey through time.
When considering what to collect, think about your budget and... space. A collection of 300 vinyl records will take up a little more space than 300 cards. You don't have to spend your entire salary right away. Set yourself a monthly spending limit for your hobby. Start slowly, with smaller, easily accessible items. Over time, as you get to grips with the subject, you will begin to hunt for real white crows .
How to assess the value and rarity of a selected category?
Once you know what to collect, it's time to do a little research. Even if you collect purely for fun, it's nice to know what you actually have on your shelf. What increases the value of your treasures ?
- Condition – In collectors' jargon, people often talk about "mint" condition (perfect, like new) or "near mint" condition (almost perfect). The better the condition, the higher the value. An item in its original, unopened box is often a golden opportunity!
- Rarity and availability Limited edition items, known as chase figures (rarer variants of standard figures), or those that have simply survived to this day in small numbers, are like winning the lottery.
- Hype and demand – if there is a lot of hype surrounding a particular series, prices go up. Sometimes the release of a new film can cause the value of old figures related to the series to skyrocket.
- History of the subject – the person who owned the item before you adds value to it, especially in the case of autographed items or items belonging to famous people.
Pro tip: How to conduct price research? Do not look at current "buy now" offers, as these are often wishful thinking prices. Check completed auctions on sales portals. These show the actual amounts that people have actually paid for specific items.
Where to find inspiration for collecting?
The internet is a treasure trove of opportunities! Facebook groups, forums and auction sites – that's where all the magic happens. Not only can you browse and admire other people's collections, but you can also ask questions, seek advice and share your own finds. That's where you're most likely to find amazing collectibles you never even dreamed of. Search for groups by specific keywords, and you're sure to find the right community for you. .
But don't just sit on the internet! Visit flea markets, collectors' fairs and pop culture conventions. Nothing can replace touching an item in person and talking to other enthusiasts. The best gems are often found in the most unexpected places, hidden somewhere at the bottom of a box at a local retailer. Sometimes it is also worth simply talking to your family – perhaps there is a real treasure hidden in your grandparents' attic?
How to initiate your first exchanges with collectors and what to pay attention to?
Exchanging is the foundation of collecting! You can get your dream items without spending a penny. How do you go about it? Be active in the community! Write posts, upload photos of your collection, create a list of what you have to exchange and what you are looking for. When you find someone interested, remember a few golden rules:
- Play with your cards on the table – Take good, clear photographs and describe your items accurately. If a figurine has a scratch or the box is dented, mention it straight away. Honesty builds reputation.
- Request additional photographs and inquire about details. – It is better to spend 10 minutes more on agreeing on the details than to feel disappointed later.
- Agree on the value of the items with the other party to the exchange. – to be fair, you need to ensure that the value of the prizes is similar.
- Check the other party's opinions If you have the opportunity, many forums and groups have referral systems. At first, when no one knows you, you may have to send your part first. This is normal.
How to document, store and protect your collection from damage?
Your collection is a treasure, so treat it like... well, a treasure! Proper storage is essential to ensure that your collection retains its value and simply pleases the eye. What will you need?
- On cards : special sleeves, binders, and for the most valuable ones – rigid protectors, known as toploaders.
- For figurines and models : glass display cases (e.g. popular display cases from IKEA), acrylic boxes or special stands that will protect against dust.
- For everything else : acid-free boxes and films that will not react chemically with your treasures.
Protect your collection from direct sunlight (as colours will fade), dust and moisture. It is also a good idea to keep a digital inventory of your collection, e.g. in a spreadsheet or a special app. Make a note of what you have, where you got it, what condition it is in and how much you paid for it. Such an inventory is helpful when your collection grows. And if you ever want to check what to collect in order to make money, a precise catalogue will be worth its weight in gold, if only for insurance purposes.
Shipping and collection via Paczkomat® InPost – start building your collection with ease
Exchange agreed? Great! Auction purchases made? Awesome! Now all you need to do is send everything safely. And that's where we come in, all dressed in yellow!
Sending parcels via Paczkomat® is very straightforward. . With the service Express Shipments You can get everything on the website in a few minutes, even without creating an account. And if you prefer to have everything in one place, grab our InPost Mobile app With it, you can send a parcel without a label and open your locker with a single click. It's the perfect solution when you return home late at night after a successful day of trading on the stock market and want to send a parcel straight away.
Please note that Your treasures deserve proper packaging . Use sturdy cardboard and fill the inside generously with padding such as wood wool, shredded paper or bubble wrap. If you are sending something fragile, use the box-within-a-box method – a smaller box inside a larger one. Place the secured item in a larger shipping box filled to the brim. . The point is to prevent your treasures from flying around the box. You can find more pro tips in our Packing guide When everything is ready, we will take care of the rest! All you have to do is calmly plan your next hunt.
