Everyone wants a better deal for less … it’s in our blood to haggle, barter and negotiate. In some cases, haggling is not possible (large retail stores, for example), but in other situations, it is expected and encouraged. If you travel abroad and visit local bazaars and makeshift stores, you might feel compelled to haggle on many of the unique wares for sale. Vendors vying for your American dollars will go back and forth hoping to seal the deal, even if it means reducing their price a bit, and who doesn’t love a good bargain?
If you feel out of your element when it comes to haggling, here are a few tips to help boost your negotiating skills:
Establish a bond with the seller — be friendly! Ask for their name and a little about their item — people love to talk about themselves. This will help pave the way for a potential negotiation.
Don’t be in a rush and don’t mention price right away — if they sense you are in a hurry, they’ll assume you don’t have time to barter for a better price, leaving them with the upper hand.
Begin at a very low price point — that way you can progress to a more reasonable amount you can afford, leaving everyone feeling happy.
If negotiations stall, tell them you have to come back — the seller may feel they have you where they want you, and they won’t want to lose your business.
Above all, have fun — this isn’t rocket science. Worst case scenario, you’ll end up leaving empty-handed despite your strategic haggling. If that happens, you’ll be sure to do better the next time, and there will always be a next time.
Read This Next
How to Haggle in Marrakesh, Morocco
Destination
Aug 20, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Nov 21, 2024Art Basel Happenings at Miami’s The Ritz-Carlton Hotels
Art Basel Miami Beach takes place Dec. 6–8. This iconic international art fair features works from worldwide established and emerging artists. To celebrate the event, The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami, and The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, host special programming with a focus on female artists.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Travel Goods
Nov 21, 2024Never Lose an Item Again with Apple’s New Share Item Location Feature
It’s your worst nightmare: Your plane is taxiing and you’re looking out the window, only to realize you’ve left your iPad or laptop in the airport. Thanks to a new feature from Apple, these fears can be allayed, ensuring we always know where our valuables are, whether traveling or at home.
Dining/Entertainment
Nov 20, 2024Experience the Only Restaurant Made Entirely of Ice in America
You’ve heard of ice hotels, but what about ice restaurants? When ice Hôtel de Glace de Québec opens in January 2025, it will be home to the only restaurant made entirely of snow and ice in America thanks to a partnership with Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Destinations
Nov 20, 2024What Destinations Are Trending in 2025?
Luxury travel company Scott Dunn looks ahead to 2025 with predictions of hot destinations to visit. These focus on under-explored locations, sustainable tourism and exclusive experiences.
ShareThis