I could rant about the sad state of our planet on World Environment Day but thought I’d devote the post to vintage shopping instead.

It’s a constant temptation to purchase brand spanking new when you’re surrounded by shiny shop fronts in the city until you start thinking about the resources required to make these products, the fuel wasted to transport them and the needless packaging to protect them. So save yourself the guilt, save your wallet and[rss-cut] save the planet by going second hand. Purchasing pre-loved can be impact free retail therapy – especially if you ride your bike to the shop.

10 tips for your next antique furniture dig or vintage apparel treasure hunt:

1. Only go when you’re in the mood for it – you won’t find anything if you can’t be bothered searching.

2. Be prepared to dig for treasure – under every pile of trash there’s sure to be a hidden gem that’s just your style.

3. Check things out with an eye to mend – don’t let a missing button or wobbly chair leg throw you off, the best finds are oh but a DIY-fix-it-job away, and any imperfection will give you grounds to talk down the price.

4. Cash is king – leave your cards at home to increase your bargaining power.

5. Forget about finding the perfect fit – you can always alter larger sizes to suit.

6. Don’t be afraid of road side collections or garage sales – you might feel like a bum going through the garbage, but these are brilliant opportunities to add to your collection while saving things from landfill.

7. Online is your oyster – Attic Antique, Clothing Exchange, Bowerbird, Monster Vintage, Second hand posh, Etsy, Ebay – but aim to find local sellers to reduce transport fuel.

8. Shop around – some second hand vendors are pricier than others (some with good reason, others not so much) so don’t settle if you want the best bargains.

9. Be the early bird – avoid missing out on the best finds which are inevitably the first to go.

10. Look for flea markets out of town or when on holidays – avoid trashy souvenirs by bringing home something unique to remind you of your trip.

And if you can’t find what you’re after at the shop, turn to your friends and family by hosting a clothes/furniture swap party – for every item you bring you can swap for another. If you can’t rustle together enough people, check out a Clothing Exchange event near you.

All photographs were taken at Mitchell Road Auction Centre in Alexandria, NSW, Australia.

Do you have any tips for second hand shopping or know of any great places to look? Share your ideas below…

About Ingrid Schroder

A Sydney-side freelance graphic designer, photographer & yoga teacher - I find myself turning to nature for guaranteed revival from the crazy pace of city life - be it digging in my garden, capturing natural beauty through a lens, floating in the ocean, practicing yoga or out exploring this incredible planet we all call home. Follow me on twitter @Cohabitaire