Haggling can help you save big while shopping abroad, but there’s a way to do it respectfully.
During a recent Nile River cruise, I’d decided to get some sun on the top deck of the Sobek, one of Viking’s newest ships. As I strolled and looked out over the small town of Esna, Egypt, I heard a faint voice below.
“Excuse me, lady?”
Curious, I peered off Sobek’s starboard side. Five floors down, a small blue rowboat bobbed against the Nile’s current. One man tried to hold the craft steady; his partner was ready to make a deal. He began to unfurl textiles of all shapes, sizes, and colors.
“Hello!” he smiled up at me. “We have many beautiful things. Look! For the table! All Egyptian cotton.”
Before I could wonder exactly how this was going to work, several plastic-wrapped parcels sailed up over the sundeck rail. I couldn’t believe the vendor’s arm, aim, or hustle. I unwrapped the tablecloths and inspected them. I then decided to dance.
“How much?” I shouted down.
Ten minutes later, our negotiations were complete. To finish the transaction, he launched up one last plastic-wrapped parcel. I placed the agreed-upon amount of cash inside and tried my best to drop it straight down into the boat.
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Bullseye. Thank goodness.
We waved goodbye. I took the linens back to my stateroom, grateful for the experience. After all, who can say they’ve had a boat-to-boat shopping sesh on the Nile River?
I’ll admit it: when I visit a new destination, I LOVE to shop. Of course, museums, cafes, and other cultural offerings are incredibly important, but I also adore picking up destination-specific items to take home for friends and family. For me, hitting local markets is often an itinerary highlight. I’ve been known to toss a foldable duffel or two in my carry-on luggage to bring home all the treasure I find. Fellow travel writers and light-as-a-feather adventurers, side-eye away. I make zero apologies.
Many Americans aren’t comfortable with the idea of haggling, but as a guide in China once schooled me, it’s considered poor sport if you don’t engage in a bit of friendly back and forth when you find something that strikes your fancy. From Istanbul to Cairo, Xi’an, and Curacao, I’ve learned how to get a good but fair deal. I’ve brought home bargains, including jewelry, spices, and fabrics. Most importantly, I’ve done it without being a jerk.
Haggling is considered acceptable and even encouraged across wide swaths of Asia, India, North Africa, Latin America, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East, especially in open-air bazaars and souks. Do your homework before you go to make sure your vacation itinerary doesn’t include outliers to this general rule, such as fancy tourist zones or more modern stores where haggling is a no-go.
It helps to have a bit of knowledge about what you’d like to buy before hitting the markets. For example, if you’ve got your heart set on an alabaster vase, understanding color variations and translucency levels can be of benefit when you bargain. Jewelry fan? Know a country’s symbols and stamps indicating metal purity. That extra intel indicates to a seller you know your stuff, can tell quality from a knock-off, and aren’t going to be a pushover. It will also boost your confidence going into a negotiation.
Finally, if you’ve hired a guide for your trip or know a local, ask about the fair market price you can expect to pay for items. This gives you an idea of where to set your counteroffer and “walk away” amount.
Bazaars and souks can be overwhelming, so my first step before beginning to bargain is to focus on what I want to purchase. Many stands will offer similar items, so I’ll wander all the way through a market to size up the competition. Often, people will approach as soon as they see you walking past. See what’s out there first!
When I’m ready to get serious, I’ll put on my best poker face, approach a seller, and ask for an item’s price. I usually get a hugely inflated number.
That’s when the fun begins. I don’t lowball obnoxiously, typically offering 30-40% as a counteroffer. Then, the back-and-forth commences. I usually stop haggling when I reach 50% of the first quoted price. If I’m successful, great. If not, I wish the seller well and am on my way. There are always other treasures waiting right around the corner.
I’ve found it incredibly helpful to commit a few words of the local language to memory before hitting a bazaar. “Yes,” “no,” and “thank you” are especially important phrases when engaging in the art of the haggle. While negotiating can become intense, don’t take it too seriously or personally. Stay polite. Be respectful. Have fun. And remember, you can always walk away if you reach an impasse or if you feel too pressured.
Depending on your location, the amount of money you’re bringing into a market might very well exceed what a person makes in a week or even a month. Keep this in mind while haggling. The last thing you want to do is insult someone trying to make a living in your dream destination. Be ethical and drive a friendly bargain that everyone can feel good about.
Many vendors at outdoor markets will not accept card payments. Plan to bring a decent stash of cash with you in both small and larger bills. Depending on where you are, American dollars might be accepted, but inquire–never assume.
Cash can also be a handy negotiation prop. I often remove the money I’m willing to spend from my pack and show it to the merchant as a final offer. The move is usually a clincher; the cash is accepted, and my items are wrapped up on the spot.
There’s nothing like the thrill of striking a bargain. I know firsthand how a smile, a bit of small talk, and a pinch of exaggerated faux outrage over a starting price can develop into a robust banter where both sides come away winners. Just enjoy the social interaction and take your time. Sometimes, the best deals unfold over a leisurely pace.
If you get a post-sale invite for tea or other refreshments, take it! I’ve nibbled biscuits with marble artisans in Agra, sipped scorching-hot apple tea alongside merchants in Istanbul, and even enjoyed an ouzo shot with a jeweler in Greece. Those “sealing the deal” celebrations are among my most precious travel memories.
Last but certainly not least, know that haggling is not for everyone. That’s ok! The experience can be overwhelming, especially if you’re on your own in a larger or crowded market. It’s tough to face down high-pressure tactics and downright uncomfortable to some folks. Don’t feel like you have to force it. The last thing you want to do is create a negative memory during your vacation! If you’d still like to pick up souvenirs, simply bypass the livelier spots for museum shops or more modern stores where prices are fixed and no fuss.
