Buying a (vintage) Bike?

Hey.
I am in the process of trying to purchase a bike. My current bike is this cute, old Peugeot, but I was recently hit and the bike, which was already slightly difficult to ride, is now nearly impossible to handle (due to the forks being totally bent out of whack). It is time for a new bike, however I really do not know what I should be looking for. I am still drawn to these old bikes. I mostly ride around for fun to limit my car usage, but I am planning a bike trip this summer that will involve some pretty heavy hills. So, I suppose I am looking for an older bike, that isn't too expensive, that can get me around and will be sufficient for perhaps some longer treks. Any ideas? Any brands I should consider? Are there are specific features that I should look for?
I'd really appreciate any input or ideas.

Welcome to TE. Sorry that you got hit :( Your bike is likely steel, has a shop looked at it to see if the fork could be replaced?

Sounds like as it is now could be inviting metal fatigue.

There are always old Peugeots on EBay.

You should check out the classic & vintage folder on bikeforums.net. That's where I got my 83 Centurion touring bike. Ninety bucks.

Of course, I got my DIL's '85 Raleigh mixte right here on TE!

Old steel bikes have renewed interest in them, but it doesn't seem like the prices are jumping up too much.

Karen