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As some of you know, I’ve recently returned from a 4-month trip to Asia. During my time in Asia, I learned quite a few things about haggling, and bargaining at the market.
Fortunately, what I learned applies to more than just buying souvenirs and trinkets. I’ve learned that there are 5 ways that bargaining taught me how to be a better spender and consumer.
1. You Can Always Walk Away
No matter what, you always have the option to walk away if you’re not satisfied with an item, its price, or the person selling it. We sometimes get caught up in the thrill of shopping.
We don’t realize we have the option to say no.
Stepping away from a sale, whether you’re bargaining during an overseas trip, or you’re at your local Wall-mart, is always an option. Walk away whenever you have doubts about your purchase. You’ll be glad to have the time to think things through.
If you don’t miss the item the next day, then you probably didn’t need it anyway.
2. Set An Acceptable Price, and Don’t Buy Otherwise
One great way to bargain is to think of the price you are willing to pay for something, before you walk into a store.
While I was in China, I was often quoted prices that were three times higher than what I was willing to pay for things. I either chose to bargain down, or walk away. Most of the time when I walked away, the salesperson lowered the price to my acceptable one.
This might not seem to apply for everyday things like toothpaste or clothes. But you can always find ways to make purchases that fit your budget by buying in bulk, buying second hand, or even borrowing from friends and family if possible.
3. Other People Need Money To Make a Living, Too
Although this point might seem to be the opposite of #2, it actually goes hand in hand. If you can’t afford to buy something above your set price point, the seller is also allowed to have a set price point below which he cannot sell.
Understand that a salesperson needs to make enough to provide for themselves and their family. They will not lower prices if it hurts their business.
This realization should allow you to feel good spending money. When you spend money, you allow others to support themselves and make a living.
If you’re spending on products that you can’t bargain on, realize that you are still supporting someone and their family. If you don’t like who you are supporting, shop elsewhere or find an alternative.
4. Verify The Quality Of The Product Before You Buy
I’m guilty of just wanting to pay for my purchase and run home to enjoy it. However, after a few times of buying a souvenir that didn’t hold up in my suitcase, I realized that I need to be more vigilant.
Just taking a quick look over your purchase to see if there are any loose ends, scratches or weak spots, can save you money.
This is especially true if you’re traveling, since you can’t go back and exchange anything once you’re gone!
5. Buy From The Person Who Makes You Feel Good
Most shops offer similar products and services. Don’t waste your time trying to get the absolute cheapest price. Buy from the person who makes you feel good, who seems honest, and caring.
When you reward the genuine people you meet, you encourage more honesty and good in the world.
If you enjoyed this article, stay tuned for more tweaked wisdom from my trip abroad!
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Comments
02.13.09
Hey Nathalie,
I love this post because I travel to Mexico every year and have similar experiences. I've also been in Asia-Pac territory and know it's pretty much the same deal.
My favorite point is #5 Buy from the person who makes you feel good. There's always one or two different vendors that I end up buying from down in Mexico. They're friendly, they're helpful, and they also just give me a good vibe. They get lots of repeat business from me and I've never dealt anyone more humbled by me doing business with them.
It's a really great comparison because businesses in the U.S. can actually learn a lot about good customer relations from these people.
Can't wait to hear more about your trip.
02.13.09
I've really learned Point #4 from logging in numerous hours working retail during college. It used to drive me nuts when people would look for flaws and then ask for money off but its something I catch myself doing a lot now. At first, it would be asking for money off when I would find a shirt I loved with a missing button but now I ask for a little extra off for a scratch on an appliance or minor damage on materials for renovations. Retailers don't always mark things down for me but at least I was able to ask.
02.15.09
When my parents go back to Asia, they would usually haggle to the point of embarrassment (for me). Although they usually got about 75% discounts for most products, so I guess it works.
01.06.10
I love this! Living in Indonesia this really resonates,
thanks!
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