Haggling is an art form that requires a keen sense of observation, good humour, and time.  My grandmother was amazing at getting the price she wanted even if it was sometimes down right embarrassing to see her wear down her opponent.  Although the guiding principles of haggling are similar no matter where you are in the world, never ever forget the cultural context in which the exchange is happening… after all you do not want to offend someone!  Here are some of my tips and tricks I’ve learned throughout my travels from haggling in local markets. Remember that the experience is suppose to be fun and always use your common sense when it comes to how much an item is really worth.

1. Never look too eager when you enter or walk past a stall/store…Feign casual interest.

2. Casually ask the price of an item so that you can compare with other places and spot the places that have the lowest prices to start.  It usually makes negotiations easier since you have less ground to make up.

3. Shop in the morning or late at night.  I was told that in India an early morning sale is considered good luck for the rest of the day, so you the shopkeepers may be more likely to accept your price at that time.

4.  If you are looking to buy multiples always start with asking the unit price.  Negotiate the number for one, and when you got stuck on the price ask how much more they would drop if you get additional ones.  Usually it will get the price down another bit.

5. When interested in an item, you can ask right away what is the lowest they would let it go for and start negotiations at roughly 30% of the price they mention.

6. Depending on the item and price, I was advised that starting at 30% of the asking price is a good rule so that you end up paying 70% once negotiations are complete.

7. Be patient with the process.  While you may have a packed visiting schedule, I discovered that many stall owners really liked the experience of sitting down with you and going back and forth on prices.  So sit down, have some tea, and take the opportunity to chat with the locals as they are usually extremely nice folks.

8. I like to write down on paper (when appropriate) the prices we are negotiating, especially when language is a concern.  This makes sure that you are both agreeing on the same number and it prevents a sudden price change when it comes time to pay.

9. Shop with a friend to play devil’s advocate.  The seller will obviously try to convince you that their products are worth the asking price, so having someone with you to keep things in perspective can be great.

10. Be willing to let it go.  At the end of the day you may not reach an agreement on a price and don’t over spend on something just to prove a point.

11. Keeping in mind #10, a well timed ‘walk away’ or threatening to leave  can be highly effective at convincing the seller to budge just a little more since they already invested so much time with you.

12. Try to carry smaller bills.  If you want to get something for 250$ and you only have 3x 100$ bills, it may be interpreted that you have additional money to spend and result in the seller keeping up the price.  Or the seller might claim not to have change, so try to keep a variety of smaller bills with you.

13.  Bring a local with you.  This can make such a difference to how much you pay… first of all they know the true value of merchandise, they know the local language and customs, and can advocate for you.

14. Always be friendly.  You attract more flies with honey than vinegar, the same is true here be respectful, nice, and patient.

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