A Beginners Guide To Haggling at Markets In Africa
Haggling is an art. An art that I was not always good at. In my early travel years, I was like most people, I purchased at the price I was told because the price was less compared to where I’m from, New York. It was not until my trip to Thailand, I noticed that a local was being charged an eighth of the price I was paying for Tuk Tuk’s. That is when it all clicked to me. My naivety was taken advantage of. I could have saved so much money (which I loved to do) and used it for other activities during my trip. To be honest, I was never mad at them, more at myself. Fast forward to today, I never make a purchase without slashing prices.
Haggling is a bargain or barter between a buyer and seller. Negotiating the best price for you both. It requires interpersonal and intellectual skills alike. Confidence, speech, problem-solving, even acting are all skills that are useful on your haggling resume. I have often been criticized for haggling, usually by someone who leaves the country once a year, if that much (s̶h̶a̶d̶e̶ ̶i̶n̶t̶e̶n̶d̶e̶d̶). Haggling is a cultural norm and is expected. Haggling has no class, race, or gender. There is a reason why there are NO PRICE TAGS. Many times when you ask a price, a vendor would counter-ask you "how much do you want to pay?”.
Keep in mind Africa is a continent, not a country. During my most recent trip, I visited Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Kenya. Visiting markets for some abstract and unique keepsakes were high on my priority list. I scored so many wonderful items and the best part was the deal that I got. Follow these tips and tricks and you’ll be surprised to see the amazing deals you’ll secure at markets in Africa or any part of the world.
Never Pay the initial Price
Know that you do not need to pay the initial price given. No matter how good the first price is, there is always wiggle room. Take pictures and ask locals what do items usually go for to see how far off you are being charged. If you can even bring one with you, keep in mind sometimes locals work with sellers, so make sure they are trustworthy. If you have time check out other stalls and markets and return. Stalls sometimes have numbers or business cards, take one so that you know where to go.
Smile
As with most situations in life, a pleasant and positive attitude would result in the best outcome. A simple smile goes a long way. If you aren’t interested, politely decline.
half off rule
Cutting the price in half is an excellent starting point even though the price is probably marked up by quadrupled once they hear your non-local accent or English language. If you aren’t confident they will take you for a ride. There are always exceptions to the rule. During my time in Nairobi, Kenya, I encountered the toughest stalls that barely budged in their prices.
Strong Walk Away Game
Having a strong walk away game is essential. If you aren’t happy with the price the seller is giving you, walk away. If they chase after you, the ball is in your court and take advantage of it. The seller will usually “reveal” their best price.
Small Denominations
Separating your money into small denominations so you aren’t pulling out a chunk of money when you are paying. Even having just enough put to the side and saying “this is all that I have” works magic.
Bundle
Take a friend, or buy multiple items for a bundle deal. Keep in mind these salesmen do this for a living, so check your math and conversion rate and make sure you are truly getting a deal.
Talk like a local
Using the local language and terms warms their heart. Even using their lingo back on them makes them budge a bit.
Never feel obligated
Don’t ever feel obliged or pressured to buy. These people are trying to make a living, but you also work hard and earn your money as well. I am certainly positive your money didn’t fall from a tree. If you aren’t interested politely decline.
Patience
If you do not have patience they will eat you up. Negotiating takes time and if you want the best price there will be work involved. I never said this was gonna be an easy walk in the park.
Have Fun
At the end of the day you are experiencing a new culture so enjoy the ride. You may learn new skills that you will be able to apply in your life at home. In the wise words of Nino Brown, “it’s always business, never personal”. They know that as well and even laugh at persistent customers.
click on my Instagram post that shows my haggling skills vs. Jidenna’s haggling skills. who did it better?
What other tips would you recommend?
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