How To Bargain With Local Shopkeepers During Travelling in India

Diya Dhiman

Diya Dhiman

 “Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate.”― John Fitzgerald Kennedy

 


 

Ever found yourself wanting to buy cool stuff while travelling, only to be stopped by sky-high prices and not knowing how to negotiate? It can be frustrating, especially when you are on a budget or want to buy multiple items. It happens to all of us. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some awesome tips to help you score the best deals.

bargain

1. Research Prices before you Bargain    

Before bargaining, it’s important to know the prices so you have an idea of how much you can ask for a discount. To understand the prices better, one can explore various shops in the area. This will let you compare prices first hand. One can chat with local people, because they know the area well and might have insider tips. You can also check online to get an idea of typical prices.Doing these things before you start bargaining can help you feel more confident.  For convenient online price comparisons, you can explore similar products on Amazon 

 2. Start Bargaining from minimum rate

When you are bargaining, it’s smart to with the lowest price you’re willing to pay. This way you have room to go up if needed. For example, if you’re willing to pay $300 for something, you might start by offering $280. Then, you can work your way up to a price you both agree on. Starting low gives you a better chance of getting a good deal in the end.

  3. Stay calm

When dealing with a shopkeeper, it’s important not to let them know how badly you want to buy something. Just act like you’re interested but not desperate. You can appreciate an item without showing too much excitement. If the price isn’t right or if you’re not completely convinced, you can say no and leave. This approach helps maintain your negotiating power and prevents the shopkeeper from taking advantage of your desperation. Be ready to walk out if they don’t agree.Being prepared to walk away if you can’t reach an agreement is a powerful tool in bargaining. Sometimes, the shopkeeper might even call you back with a better offer.

4. Be Polite and Friendly

Ever tried asking a shopkeeper about the place you are travelling or their speciality? If not then you are missing out on something good. Trust me if you are polite and friendly , you’re more likely to get a discount. Try having small conversations with them, cracking jokes, asking about their business or from how long they are in that business , this can make the whole Bargaining process more fun and you might end up with a good discount.

For more tips on saving money while traveling, you can check out here

  5. Be confident

When you’re bargaining with a shopkeeper, feeling confident is key. It’s all about how you come across and your body language. Stick to the price you’ve decided on and make it clear you won’t be persuaded.When you’re talking to the shopkeeper, make sure to look them in the eye. It shows you’re serious and confident about what you’re saying.Persuade the shopkeeper that you have access to the same item at a lower cost elsewhere.Just remember, confidence is your best friend in the bargaining game!

 6. Know when to stop

 As you wrap up, keep in mind that you’re looking for a fair deal, not to disadvantage the shopkeeper. It’s important to stop bargaining when you feel the price reflects the value of the product. By doing so, you uphold integrity in your interactions and contribute to a positive exchange experience for both parties involved

As you finish up your bargaining experience, remember that it’s not just about getting a good deal – it’s also about respecting the people you’re negotiating with and the places you’re visiting.Whether you’re exploring new markets or familiar shops while travelling, bargaining can be a fun way to connect with locals and learn about their culture. So, next time you’re on a trip, don’t be afraid to bargain a bit – you might get a cool souvenir and make some awesome memories!

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