If you are the type of action figure collector that (like me), can't resist opening up your toys and playing with them a bit before displaying them, the following tip is for you!

On eBay, you will find a large selection of "loose" toys; these are items without their original packages, (although sometimes they may be missing accessories, etc. - there are ways on eBay to confirm this) but still in good to mint condition.  As with many items on eBay, these figures are very reasonably priced, usually to account for the lack of original packaging materials.

If you could care less about the box the toy came in, but still want the figure/vehicle/playset, etc. for your collection, this is a great way to find those missing pieces, and save some money as well.  For example, this figure of The FLASH originally retailed for approximately $8-10, and included everything shown here (just the figure).  However, this eBay seller is starting the bids at $0.01, with a $4.99 shipping charge and an optional charge of $1.40 for shipping insurance.  Therefore, you could potentially get this JUSTICE LEAGUE figure for a mere $6.40, a savings of at least $3.60 off it's original retail price!

This is a great tip for anyone who:  is a "display only" collector; a fan of the particular character (but not necessarily a collector of the entire series), or; as a gift for a child ... just to name a few examples.  Also, if you collect, display &/or play with toys (or know someone who does) but are bothered by the amount of waste generated by excessive packaging, this is a great way to avoid the mess AND save some money while you're at it!