Whether you're inspired by nostalgia, pop culture, or the thrill of the hunt, collecting things can be a rewarding and fun hobby.
Depending on your interests, space, and budget, there are countless cool things to collect, from sports cards to antiques.
Many collectors start young and build their collections over a few years or even decades. Let's explore the best things to collect and how to get started.
What Are the Most Popular Things People Collect?
People collect a wide range of items, but some of the most popular collections include:
- Coins – Loved for their historical value and different shapes.
- Stamps – A timeless classic, perfect for detail-oriented collectors.
- Sports cards – Especially baseball cards and hockey cards. Check out our guide to the 10 Most Expensive Tim Hortons Hockey Cards.
- Comic books – Featuring everything from superheroes to vintage first editions.
- Video games – Including rare and factory-sealed titles.
For a deep dive into high-value items, don't miss our blog: What is the Most Expensive Hockey Card You Can Collect and Buy?.
What to Consider Before You Start Collecting Things
Your Interests
Pick something you're passionate about. Do you love comic books, vintage toys, or action figures? Your collection should reflect your personality and favourite things.
The more emotionally connected you are, the more rewarding the hobby becomes over time.
Your Budget
Some hobbies can become expensive over time. To keep them affordable, start with mass-produced items from second-hand stores.
As your knowledge and commitment grow, you can gradually invest in rarer, higher-value items.
Storage/Display Space
Large collections like antique furniture or model trains require more room. If space is tight, go for compact collectibles like stamps or trading cards.
Think about how you'll organize, display, or protect your collection to keep it in top shape.
Time Commitment
Collecting things, especially rare ones, can take years. It's a long-term hobby requiring patience, research, and regular visits to garage sales, thrift shops, and antique stores. Be prepared to spend time learning about your chosen items and the best places to find them.
14 Cool Things to Collect as a New Hobby
1. Comic Books
A fun hobby packed with storytelling, art, and nostalgia. Look for first editions or comics that depict celebrities and superheroes.
Many collectors keep their comics in special boxes to maintain their condition; some rare issues can be worth thousands.
2. Coins
Collect coins from different eras and countries. Many collectors love the history and variety in shapes and materials. Coin collecting also offers an educational angle, giving insight into cultures and economies.
3. Funko Pop Figures
These stylized figures are one of the best things to collect in the world of pop culture. They're often based on movies, games, and sports figures.
With new releases regularly, there's always something new to hunt for.
4. Stamps
Collecting stamps is great for detail lovers. Some stamps are worth thousands of dollars and offer a deep dive into global history and design. It's also a very space-efficient hobby.
5. Baseball Cards
A favourite since a very young age for many collectors. Baseball, hockey, basketball—there's no shortage of options. Rare rookie cards or limited editions can become extremely valuable over time. Explore the world of sports collectibles.
6. Pokémon Cards
These trading cards are a cultural phenomenon. Many started collecting Pokémon cards as kids, and today, rare cards can be worth thousands.
Competitive players also value powerful or unique cards for gameplay.
7. Action Figures
From Marvel heroes to vintage G.I. Joes, action figures combine nostalgia with artistic value. The best ones are often those kept in their original packaging. Some even appreciate in value with time.
8. Vintage Toys or Dolls
These collectibles offer vintage appeal and strong nostalgia. Think Barbie dolls, Hot Wheels, and toys that little girls or boys cherished years ago.
Older or limited-run toys can become prized collector's items.
9. Model Cars
This is a great option for car lovers who can't collect cars themselves. These scale replicas often mirror classic and exotic vehicles. The detail and craftsmanship in high-end models are truly impressive.
10. China and Glassware
Elegant and historical, this collectible often features intricate designs. Be sure to have secure display space for these fragile items.
Collectors often seek out specific patterns or manufacturers.
11. Vinyl Records
A timeless collectible item that combines music with nostalgia. Browse thrift shops or record stores for hidden gems. Many collectors love the warm sound quality and iconic album art.
12. Model Trains
Perfect for creative collectors who enjoy building miniature worlds. Model train enthusiasts often recreate entire cities or landscapes.
This hobby also blends engineering, design, and storytelling.
13. Video Games
Collectors love preserving gaming history and sometimes even restoring old systems, especially older titles in mint condition or limited-edition consoles.
See the Most Expensive Gaming PCs if you love gaming tech, too.
14. Antiques
From antique furniture to vintage signs, antique items bring history into your home. Shopping at antique stores or garage sales can uncover some valuable finds.
Antiques also make great conversation pieces and decor.
What Are the Most Unusual Things to Collect?
If you like unusual things, try collecting:
- Gas Station Collectibles (Petroliana) – Including gas pumps, vintage signs, and oil cans that showcase automotive history.
- Hot Sauce Bottles – A spicy collectible in more ways than one, with bold designs and international flair.
- Movie Posters – Especially from cult classics or rare international releases, often prized for their graphic design.
- Buttons, bottle caps, or keychains – Tiny items with big character, often found in unexpected places.
These collectibles often hold nostalgia, pop culture appeal, and plenty of charm. Plus, they're great conversation starters.
Explore More with Spin Genie
Love collecting? Dive deeper into high-value and quirky collections with these reads:
- Most Expensive Sid Dickens Tiles
- Most Valuable 1990s Hockey Cards
- Most Valuable Wayne Gretzky Hockey Cards
- Most Expensive Anime Figures
- The 25 Best Gaming Gadgets You Need In 2025
- 25 Luxury Gadgets You Need in 2025
FAQs
What Are Gas Station Collectibles?
Also known as petroliana, these are vintage collectibles related to gas stations, including gas pumps, oil cans, signs, and other advertising items.
They're especially popular with fans of antique stores and roadside Americana. These items offer a glimpse into the golden age of motoring.
What Is the Most Valuable Collectible Item?
It depends on the category. A rare trading card, comic book, or antique can be worth thousands, or even hold a world record! The market value often depends on rarity, condition, and demand.
Where Can I Find Rare Collectibles?
Try eBay, garage sales, thrift shops, second-hand stores, and specialized antique stores. Attending collector conventions or joining online forums can also yield great finds.
How Can I Start Collecting on a Budget?
To get started cheaply, look for mass-produced items with nostalgic or pop culture value, like Funko Pops, vinyl records, or action figures. Setting a monthly budget can help you enjoy the hobby without overspending.
Why Do People Love Collecting?
Many collectors say it connects them with their childhood, satisfies a love for history, or gives them a creative way to express their passions. It also offers a sense of achievement as collections grow and evolve.
