Travel antiquing is a great way to collect precious items from around the world. These items reflect a bit of the history of the region you visited and can greatly enhance the nostalgia factor of a trip. Here are a few tips that can help you get the best of travel antiquing.
Do’s:
1. Research the antiques markets and shops
Even of you are a skilled antique, you’d need to know what the traditional antiques markets and reputed antiques shops are located in the country/city you’re visiting. These establishments are reputed and are known for selling genuine articles. To avoid a rip-off, do a little research of which shops and markets sell genuine antiques around your destination.
2. Try your hand at flea markets
Flea markets are a great place to get your hand on outstanding buys. However, shopping for antiques at flea markets is only for those who really know the field well. If you are skilled at it, you’d be able to spot fakes more easily and avoid being scammed.
3. Ask for guarantee
A good antiques seller would always provide you with some kind of guarantee with your purchase. These sellers also have buy-back policies in place that provide protection to the artifact. If a seller is offering you a solid guarantee, preferably in writing, chances are that they are selling genuine stuff.
Don’ts:
1. Don’t believe everything a vendor tells you
Vendors selling antiques often provide you with an elaborate back story with each item they have. If a story appears too good to be true, it probably is. However, the most genuine artifacts usually have a rich but mundane history behind it.
2. Don’t forget to bring your smartphone
Always bring an internet-enabled smartphone or tablet with your when you’re going travel antiquing. If you come across something that the vendor claims is from a particular period and you’re not too sure if it’s genuine, you can always do a quick search and verify the authenticity of the artifact.
3. Don’t forget to ask for the vendor’s business card
A good way to ensure that you don’t get taken for a ride while travel antiquing is to ask for the vendor’s business card beforehand. A genuine seller of antiques would not hesitate in providing you with one while a scam artist would be rather reluctant in giving you one.