How to bargain in markets

While I’ve been to Ghana numerous times now, one thing I still struggle with is bargaining on the markets.

Whether that’s for food, gifts, or other items. I always ended up taking someone else along to do the bargaining on my behalf. I eventually picked up a couple of tips and tricks on how to successfully bargain in markets, so here you go.

Know what you want to buy before you go

If you’re an impulsive buyer just like me then this tip will come in handy for you. I used to get most of the items for family and friends abroad so I started compiling a list before even entering the market.

This will help you turn down offers made by some of the sellers and will not end up going in and buying items you don’t necessarily want to buy.

When it comes to food shopping on the smaller markets, having a precise list of items you need will help you not forget anything and structure your way through the market (picking up the heaviest items towards the end).

Now, whenever I buy items for family and friends abroad it tends to be a bit tricky. Some people know exactly what you should get for them, others will get a surprise gift from you.
I would still suggest you roughly write down what you could possibly get for someone you’re unsure about to have a vision of what you’re buying.
Keep on looking at your list and ick off the list as you go.

Have an estimated amount that you are willing to pay

Just like with everything else you should always put an estimated budget you’re willing to spend on each item. You might have to research or ask for some item prices before heading to the market to gain an understanding of how much you will have to pay for it.

You can usually ask any local how much an item typically costs, but be aware of the fact that these prices can also vary strongly depending on where you buy.
I can only advice you to stick to that estimated amount and not deviate from it.

Most sellers will offer you a great discount if you buy in bulk or larger amounts which will eventually reduce your price per item so you can definitely make use of that. Just make it a habit to not back down and spend more than your set budget for each item.

Determine if bargaining is appropriate

Depending on the environment that you are in, bargaining can be very inappropriate. You need to analyze the situation and decide whether you have some room to play or learn when the price is fixed.

I would say you should not try and negotiate whenever you see a price tag or list of pricing anywhere.

It would be bad shopping etiquette to make an offer or start negotiating on the price.
Also, consider the environment you’re in. Some people have more time to talk and others don’t.

I usually shy away from negotiating during traffic since it’s really stressful for everyone.

Do not make the first price offer

Especially when coming from abroad, you probably have a different understanding of how much certain items are supposed to cost. What seems to be considered ”cheap” in a westernized country can be very expensive when shopping in local markets.

Be aware of the fact that you are shopping in a completely different environment where prices vary from what you’re used to. In this sense, I can only advise you to allow the seller to make the first price offer to see where you’re headed at.

It gives you a good estimate on where he/she is heading at with their price. If you happen to make the first price and it’s way higher than what the merchant had in mind, you’re missing out on getting a solid price for your item.

Tone down your excitement

Never let the merchant see that you’re overly excited and hyped about the items. Giving them the idea that you ”need” the item will give them the confidence to hold onto their price.

Put on a cool poker face and don’t settle for the first offer they make you. Playing hard to get can really come in handy for you here.

Don’t fall in like with an item, just show them that you like it. You care, but not too much. That’s the overall impression you should make.

Do not be scared to walk away

Know when the right time is to walk away and decline the offer. If your gut feeling tells you that you’re not going to come into agreement and find a good price then it’s not supposed to be.

Do not leave with a frown on your face or in a negative way, give them a friendly goodbye and move on. Telling them you’re grateful for helping you will be a good end of the discussion. You will find another place to find your item for the right price.