Even savvy travellers often goof up on shopping in a foreign land. Too many make expensive mistakes. Quite a few fall into tourist traps. Some fret so much that they forget to have fun. Follow these tips from Shubhra Krishan to shop smart and get the essential bargaining skills from Alexandra Jimenez, editor of the blog Travel Fashion Girl.
Shop the flea markets
Especially in the pricier countries. These open-air markets are very colourful, boast lots of local flavours, and most importantly, allow you to scout for rare treasures without burning a hole in your pocket and going on a bargaining spree.
Before you leave home, do some research
What souvenirs and local goods you should be buying? One of our team-mates lugged back a big bag of gleaming round whole red chillies from the Middle East, thinking they were exotic; only to be told that they’re available by the sackful—and much cheaper—in Chandni Chowk!
Resist going overboard
Every now and then, think back to the suitcases in your room, and how much space you have left. Are they straining at the seams? If yes, do you have another bag? If you buy another one, will you be within your baggage limits at the airport? Sigh. Practical nuisances, but important, too.
Shop where the locals do
Too many of us still walk into tourist traps and end up paying way more than fair. If you can chat up a local and ask them to point you to the right store/market for what you need, nothing like it. If not, just keep your eyes open for where you see a lot of them, and follow their lead!
Fond of spices, herbs and other exotic kitchen goodies? Avoid the big supermarkets and explore the grocery stores. They often have the same things for much lower prices.
Retain your receipts
Once you get back to your hotel, take stock of your day’s shopping. If something doesn’t fit or feel as appealing, you can go back to the store the next morning, rather than staring helplessly at your folly back home!
Almost every big city in the world has factory outlets located on the outskirts. In New York, it’s Woodbury Commons. In Edinburgh, it’s the Stirling Mills complex. Bonus: you can enjoy these as day trips, sampling local food and walking the pleasant, spacious courtyards.
Do get into the discount sections of big stores such as H&M. You’re sure to get good quality stuff for attractive prices.
How exactly does one bargain?
Haggling is considered by many to be an art form or at least a skill that can be acquired through experience. While it may overwhelm and even intimidate you, a bit of patience will help you succeed in attaining that one-of-a-kind keepsake with a bargain basement price tag. In fact, in some countries, bargaining is a part of the culture with price haggling to be expected. Do a little research before your trip to determine general bargaining tips for your particular destination.
Follow these 7 tips to help you in your quest to master the art of skilful bargaining:
1. Never attempt to bargain for an item you’re not prepared to buy.
Don’t waste the vendor’s time or yours.
2. Window shop discreetly without asking for prices.
You don’t want them to know you’re interested.
Once you’ve found the special item you want to purchase, decide on a number in your head. Determine how much you’re willing to pay and what it is worth to you. This will help give you confidence in indicating to the vendor that you are an experienced haggler.
3. Think in terms of local currency, not your own.
Take the price standards in the local economy into consideration when deciding on a price.
Generally speaking, offer half of the original asking price expecting to meet the vendor in the middle. For example, if he asks for 10, you offer 5 and expect to pay 7.5.
4. Expect an over-exaggerated reaction from the salesperson at your counteroffer.
While a bit of this is to be expected, if you follow the above guideline you should end up being in a reasonable price range for both of you.
5. Stand firm and act confident.
If you don’t get the price you want, be prepared to walk away or reconsider if your offer was too low. Some vendors will chase after you with a lower price. This varies between destinations.
If you really want to buy something the vendor may not always come chasing after you, so decide whether you will pass on the item or pay more.
It is very important to pay what the item is worth to you, not what others have paid for it.
6. Don’t fight over pennies.
Remember, the difference in you paying or saving 10 cents can make a world of difference to that vendor feeding themselves or their family.
7. What if you overpaid?
If you are happy with your purchase and the price tag, then that’s all that matters. Maybe you paid a bit more than another person but you also gained an incredible souvenir that will bring you memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy it!
The article was published in Travel Secrets magazine’s March-April 2014 issue.
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