Introduction: Why We Started Collecting Pokémon Cards
Hello everyone! If you’re here purely for the information and aren’t interested in the personal side of this journey, feel free to scroll down to find exactly what you need. But if you’re a parent or simply intrigued by our experience, let me briefly introduce myself!
My name is Cody, and this journey into Pokémon card collecting began with my eldest daughter’s desire to create content. As a parent, the thought of “content creation” initially scared me. Putting yourself out there for others to judge is daunting, especially for a growing child still discovering their identity. After much thought, I realized that instead of encouraging her creativity and bravery, I was holding her back. So, I made the decision to support her in every way I could.
If you’d like to read more about that journey, you can check it out [here]. The next step was to determine what truly interested her—and to my surprise, she landed on Pokémon and card collecting.
Like many, I have nostalgic memories of Pokémon cards from the ’90s when they were all the rage in schools, but beyond that, I had no real knowledge of the hobby. So, as true beginners, my daughter and I are learning together. Here’s my advice for fellow newcomers starting their Pokémon card collecting journey from scratch.
Understanding the Basics of Pokémon Card Collecting
Before diving in, it’s helpful to understand the basics of the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) and how cards are categorized.
Types of Pokémon Cards
- Common, Uncommon, and Rare Cards – Found in almost every pack, with different levels of scarcity.
- Holo & Reverse Holo Cards – Shiny versions of standard cards.
- Ultra Rares & Secret Rares – These include Full Art, V, VMAX, and alternate art cards, often the most sought-after.
- Promo Cards – Special cards from events, tin sets, or giveaways.
Sealed Packs vs. Singles
- Booster Packs – Offer the thrill of surprises but can be hit-or-miss.
- Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs) – A great starter option, including packs, sleeves, and other accessories.
- Buying Singles – A way to guarantee getting specific cards instead of relying on luck.
Where to Begin: A Beginner Pokémon Collector’s Guide
Pokémon card collecting can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the hobby. With numerous expansions, variations of the same card, and different ways to engage with collecting, there’s no single “right” way to start.
The hobby can also be expensive depending on your goals, so as a beginner, it’s important to define what you want to achieve. Setting a goal can help prevent unnecessary overspending.
What Is Your Goal?
Not everyone collects Pokémon cards for the same reason. Some collect purely for fun, while others see it as an investment. Here are some common collecting goals:
- Flipping & Investing – Buying and selling cards for profit or buying particular cards or “slabs” with the hope that their value will increase over time
- Completing an Entire Set – Trying to collect every card from a specific expansion.
- Collecting Specific Pokémon – Focusing on a favorite character or type.
Best Starter Products for Beginners & Kids
Once you have an idea of your collecting goal, the next step is choosing the right products based on your budget. After researching the best beginner-friendly options, here’s what we recommend:
- Booster Boxes – Released for mainline sets four times a year (February, May, August, November). These contain 36 packs and offer great value if you’re looking to open a lot of packs at once.
- Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs) – Typically contain 9–10 packs, card sleeves, and a guidebook featuring every card in the set. Many consider this the best product for new collectors.
- Booster Bundles – A more affordable option, containing six packs. Available for both mainline and specialty sets, which often feature exclusive cards and artwork.
Organizing & Storing Your Pokémon Card Collection
Protecting your cards is essential, as damage can significantly reduce their value—sometimes by 50%–90%. Here’s what we use to keep our collection in top condition:
- Penny Sleeves – Clear, flexible plastic sleeves that protect cards from dirt, dust, and moisture. The most affordable way to protect your collection.
- Binders with Card Sleeves – Great for displaying collections, but traditional binders can bend cards. A top-loader binder is a better option for prized cards.
- Top Loaders & Hard Cases – Extra protection for rare or valuable cards, placed over a sleeved card to prevent bending and edge damage.
- Sorting by Set, Type, or Rarity – Organizing cards in a way that’s visually appealing and practical. This is a hobby meant to be enjoyable—find what works best for you!
Learning Together: Resources for New Collectors
Official & Educational Resources
- Pokémon TCG Official Website – Latest set releases, rules, and official product information.
- Pokémon Price Guide (TCGPlayer) – A marketplace to check card values and buy/sell cards.
- Pokémon Card Set List (PokéBeach) – Comprehensive lists of every Pokémon card expansion.
Online Communities & Forums
- r/PokemonTCG (Reddit) – A great place to ask questions, trade, and stay updated.
- E4 Pokémon (Elite Fourum) – A dedicated community for collectors and investors.
- PokéGym Forums – Discussion boards for competitive play and collecting.
Storage & Supplies
- Ultra PRO – High-quality card sleeves, binders, and top loaders.
- Amazon – Pokémon Storage – Various binders and storage solutions for beginners.
Marketplaces for Buying & Selling Cards
- eBay – A hub for finding rare and graded Pokémon cards.
- TCGPlayer – One of the largest platforms for buying individual cards.
- StockX Pokémon – A trusted platform for authenticated Pokémon cards.
YouTube Channels for Beginners
- Leonhart – Pokémon openings and investment insights.
- TwicebakedJake – Set reviews, collecting advice, and market trends.
- PokeRev – Vintage and modern pack openings, collecting strategies.
Final Thoughts
Starting a Pokémon card collection with my daughter has been an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a parent helping your child get started or an adult collector diving into the world of Pokémon cards for the first time, having a clear goal and the right tools can make the journey smoother and more enjoyable.
If you’re new to collecting, I hope this guide provides the information you need to start with confidence. Follow along as we continue our journey, learning more about Pokémon TCG and the community that makes it so special!
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