For many people, spending the afternoon in an antiques mall is nirvana. Whether just browsing or shopping for something special, spending time enjoying the history of our forepeople is an activity enjoyed by many. But before you head out, there are a few things you should know.

Swipe through to learn about antiques shopping rules.

Negotiate Respectfully

If you’d like to get a better price on an item you’re interested in, it’s ok to negotiate, but be respectful and don’t offer a ridiculously low price. If you head to the shops looking for something in particular, do some research ahead of time so you understand its value.

No Big Bags

Antiques stores tend to be packed with stuff. Overflowing shelves and narrow aisles are hallmarks of these stores. If you’re trying to maneuver through these tight spaces with a big bag on your shoulder, you’re just asking for trouble. You’d feel really bad if your bag knocked a valuable item off a shelf.

Handling Fragile Items

Many items for sale in an antiques show can be fragile or delicate. Textiles, lighting and glassware for example, can easily be damaged. If a few items have caught your eye, don’t stack them up in your shopping basket. Ask the shopkeeper for help and ask them to store items for you at the front desk while you continue to shop.

Don’t Be Impulsive

Do you really need that 300-piece dinnerware set, even if it reminds you of one of your grandmas? Do you have a place to store it? It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of antiquing, but be sure to think carefully about any purchases you’re considering.

Leave Things Alone

Many booth owners take pride in creating attractive, curated displays. In your quest for something special, you might root around, rearranging things willy-nilly. But if you take a photo before you start digging, you can carefully put things back as they were, offering a lovely sign of respect to the purveyor.

Leave the Kids

We love our kids, but children and antique stores are not a good match — bull in a China shop, one could say. They’ll be bored to tears and you’ll be anxious that their natural kid tendencies will result in a pile of broken glass on the floor. Let the kids do something fun with their other parent while you enjoy a peaceful afternoon to yourself at the shops.