Since my first solo trip in 2009, traveling grew on me to become one of my greatest passions.
I feel grateful for the countless experiences and memories I collected throughout my trips. It transformed me and boosted a number of my personality aspects.
If, like me, you prefer to explore different parts of the world, especially the off-beaten paths, you’ll notice you frequently need to haggle to buy certain things.
Some people who are accustomed to fixed rates dislike haggling and all the headaches it might involve (such as overcharging and time waste…).
On my side, I like haggling; I find it an interesting way of socializing and having a human connection.
However, no one enjoys being ripped off, so when I’m in a country where haggling is the norm, I follow this logic:
1. Understand the dynamics of the culture
In some areas of the world (say Southeast Asia), people are so zen and friendly that it’s hard to piss them off. If you offer to pay just 10% of the asking price, they take no offense; they’ll simply say, “Nooooo, no can”, and carry on haggling for a better deal.
This attitude isn’t the same everywhere you go; some nations are hot-blooded. If you offer 10% of the asking price, expect to be shown the door with an ugly face.
Always consider the place and keep the temperament of the locals in mind.
2. Get your feet wet
Know how much things generally cost; supermarkets are a great place to do that. This will help you have a better idea of what pricing is like in that nation.
3. Ask in advance about the haggling range
It might be your friends who visited the place in the past or staff at your accommodation. You’ll have a broad idea about the ranges to stay within for different kinds of items.
You need to assess how honest the vendors are in general and how aggressively they overcharge tourists in that area.
4. Check a few shops first
Now that you know exactly what you wanna buy, start by asking three different sellers how much it costs.
You’re unlikely to come across three dishonest vendors who seriously exploit ignorant tourists (believe me on it; honest people are everywhere).
Asking in three different shops will give you a pertinent estimate of the profit margin made on the product.
5. Start with the best deal
I go back to the shop where I was offered the lowest price and start negotiating sympathetically.
I smile and crack jokes often (remember, it’s not only about money; it’s about the social experience as well). Sympathy works like magic, and speaking the native language comes in very handy here.
Based on the haggling range I have in mind, I define what I believe to be a fair price to pay for the item. I negotiate till a deal is concluded or I reach that fair price I already determined (say he asks for $100, but I feel $70 is a good price for it; I might begin by offering $55 or $60 and work my way up to $70).
6. Pretend to leave
If no agreement is reached after I have made my best offer, I genuinely thank the vendor, stating it was as far as I can go before pretending I’m seriously leaving.
This move is key; if my offer permits a decent profit margin, the seller will halt me and seal the deal (the profit margin was decent, and I was sympathetic, so why not?).
Otherwise, it simply means my offer wasn’t sufficiently profitable, and I need to make a decision: “Do I really want that item for a higher price, or do I just let it go?”.
When I really like the item, I go back and accept that final offer (no ego involved here; it’s business, and we’re trying to reach a deal satisfying all parties).
Now, there are two important elements to keep in mind:
Never undermine the quality of a product in an attempt to obtain a lower price
You’re just fooling yourself… Why would you care so much anyway if the product isn’t that good? It’s a cheap move, creates friction, and makes the seller an even tougher negotiator.
In negotiations and in life, always be a classy person!
Generosity is a noble act
Don’t be the mean guy! When the price is really good compared to your income or the cost of living in your home country, there is no need to squeeze hard and take haggling to the extreme level; it’s not worth it.
In some parts of the world, people are indeed struggling, and you should feel delighted if your money is helping someone make a living.
I’ve witnessed people haggle over pennies, and it’s truly shameful, especially when the merchant is visibly poor and underprivileged.
Be classy, be generous, but avoid getting ripped off.
