2 weeks ago
8
September 24, 2025 — 5:00am
There’s no better way to shop than by haggling. A seller might be prepared to accept less, while you mightn’t want to spend quite as much. A fixed price kills the opportunity for a deal.
Haggle the right way and you’ll enjoy it. Keep in mind that haggling isn’t about getting a rock-bottom price but achieving a fair price acceptable to both parties.
You shouldn’t always haggle. Respect the seller, who has to earn a living. Knocking 50 cents off a five-dollar souvenir while on a $20,000 holiday isn’t clever. It’s mean. When buying more expensive items, respect the time, skill and artistry that has gone into them.
You should, however, recognise that in many countries, vendors offer tourists an initial high price in the expectation of haggling. In places where social interaction is highly valued, not haggling can cause offence.
A more international world has reduced the prevalence of haggling over the last few decades, but it nonetheless remains common in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Beyond purchases in restaurants and regular shops, most things are negotiable.
A good starting point, especially for a taxi fare or more expensive purchase, is to ask locals about going rates. In a market or shopping street, you might use rivals’ prices as a bargaining tool to show you’re informed and prepared to shop around.
Use psychology wisely. Draw out the shopping process and ask lots of questions because vendors who’ve invested time in the haggle will be keener to seal a deal.
Keep the tone light and avoid confrontation. Smile. Find common ground in talking about family or how much you like the vendor’s country. All the better if you can produce a few phrases in the local language to drive empathy.
In short, think of haggling as a form of flirtation. Make some kind of personal connection and a happy outcome is more likely.
Leave room for manoeuvre instead of backing the seller into a corner. Bounce prices back and forth as if playing badminton. Knock half the price off the seller’s first offer, but don’t expect to settle for anything under a quarter of the initial asking price.
The negotiation is unlikely to go your way or finish with the best price if the vendor senses you’re determined to buy. Don’t get emotional or show excitement at finding just the right carpet or brass pot you’ve been looking for.
Appear relaxed, only modestly interested, and unhurried. Telling the vendor that you have a train to catch won’t produce a good deal because he or she will assume you’re eager to conclude the transaction quickly.
Stand your ground, as long as your asking price is reasonable. Be prepared to walk away. That might score you a final counter offer. If it doesn’t, the vendor has likely reached the limit, and you should gracefully accept that you haven’t yet mastered the art of the deal.
Sign up for the Traveller newsletter
The latest travel news, tips and inspiration delivered to your inbox. Sign up now.
