Getting things at the local rate is not always easy when traveling. That is why these tips on how to bargain like a pro when traveling are important.
How To Bargain Like a Pro When Traveling
In western countries, bargaining is not always acceptable, and as travelers, we are sometimes not familiar with this process and the rules that accompany it. It’s common to hear tourists complaining about inflated prices by local sellers aiming to make a few extra dollars without them noticing.
Learn to Barter from the Pros
My girlfriend Amanda and I have been traveling around the world on our bicycles for two years now. Our daily expenses hardly go over 10 dollars per person per day. Part of this is because we are traveling in developing countries; moreover, our negotiation skills have significantly improved during this time.
Although it can be challenging to determine how much you are paying over the local price, there are several ways you can enhance your negotiation skills. Here are some tips on how to bargain like a pro when traveling.
1. Always with a Smile
Bargaining should never be confrontational. It’s about building a relationship, a dialogue between two parties seeking mutually beneficial outcomes.
The ultimate goal is cooperation. In some cultures, like in Arab countries, bargaining is an ancestral tradition. No purchases occur without a negotiation, as it’s considered essential to the transaction. Therefore, always remember to enjoy the process, maintaining a smile and deep respect for the seller.
2. The Golden Rule: The First One Who Says a Price Loses
This is the fundamental rule of the bargaining game: whoever mentions a price first is at a disadvantage.
If the seller presents a price, it means you won’t pay more than that figure; meanwhile, if the buyer states an amount, the seller is unlikely to sell the product for less. Consequently, allow the seller to set the price first and wait for them to lower it several times before suggesting your amount.
3. Use the Local Language if Possible
If you can speak the seller’s native language, it’s a significant advantage. You don’t need fluency; just knowing basic expressions, including numbers and relevant phrases such as “how much” and “that’s very expensive,” suffices.
Speaking the local language demonstrates that you appreciate the country and its culture, which locals admire. I can’t remember how many times I entered a shop to hear a tourist shout “how much is this?” in English without even a “good morning” prior, resulting in inflated prices five times higher than I just paid.
If you treat the interaction as if selling something to a friend—where you offer a lower price because you want to help—locals will likely reciprocate. Show that you care about them and their culture to avoid overpaying.
4. Never Show Your Money Until You Agree on a Price
This is common sense. If you reveal a wallet brimming with cash, don’t anticipate receiving a good deal.
If you appear affluent, you will be at a disadvantage, as sellers may assume you can afford to pay more.
5. Patience, Patience, Patience
Take your time while bargaining. It’s not a sprint; it’s a marathon. Even when pressed for time, do your best not to project urgency, as it may work against you.
If you appear rushed, sellers may pressure you for more money simply because you seem to need to leave quickly. This is essential to bargaining like a pro while traveling.
6. Start Way Lower Than What You Would Actually Pay
You need to leave room for negotiation. Consequently, raising your offer later showcases your willingness to compromise, which sellers appreciate. Thus, starting lower provides more flexibility for negotiation.
7. Make Them Relate to You
Children often receive what they want because people sympathize with them. Similarly, making sellers empathize with your situation can lead to a better deal.
Utilize phrases like “I don’t have much money,” “I’m traveling for an extended time,” or “I travel by bicycle; if I had more money, I would travel by car and offer you more.” Craft your narrative and adapt it until it resonates.
8. Compliment the Seller
Personalizing interactions can significantly influence bargaining outcomes. Comments such as “you seem to be a nice person” or “you appear to enjoy helping others” can be incredibly effective. Try using them during your next negotiation to witness the difference.
9. Show Respect: Once You Offer a Price, You Can’t Go Back on It
It’s crucial to remember this rule when bargaining. Once you present an offer, you must stand by it. Reversing your offer reflects disrespect toward the seller. Thus, only negotiate if you genuinely want something, and make offers you truly mean.
10. Once the Game is Over, Everyone is Friends Again
No matter how long it took to finalize a price, reaching an agreement should foster happiness for both parties. Even if the bargain ends without a transaction, it’s polite to thank the seller for their time.
Author Bio:
In January 2013, Antonio, along with his partner Amanda, began exploring the world by bicycle. With big dreams, a comprehensive bucket list, and a plan, they quickly decided to embrace a lifestyle that allows them to travel indefinitely. They transformed their dream trip into a dream life filled with adventure.
You can learn more about their journey on their adventure travel blog Adventure Junkies.
