Brits are at the top of haggling game abroad

Added 06/07/2010

Pots at a market

A survey conducted by online holiday finder Travelzoo has revealed that British travellers are better at haggling abroad than other European nationalities. Brits are also more likely to haggle with travel providers when booking a holiday.

On the flip side, when Brits have snared a great deal on a souvenir, they are less likely to boast about it, whereas 80% of German travellers like to have a good brag about their bargain buys.

Travellers in general are more likely to try their hand at haggling than two years ago, probably due to the economic downturn and the need to save money.

Across Europe, travellers are doing all they can to spend as little as possible on their holidays.

70% of British travellers enjoy haggling abroad, and it’s easy to see why. Haggling can add adventure to any holiday and it is commonplace in many local markets abroad. Shops tend to display fixed prices, so stick to the streets if you want to try your hand at haggling.

Before you start haggling, make sure you have a maximum price in your head and don’t overshoot it, otherwise you might kick yourself later when you realised you have spent too much. Start bartering at a low price and work your way up and don’t be put off if the stallholder acts offended - it’s all part of the game.

Walk away if you are not happy with the price. Markets are often full of stalls selling the same wares, so it’s likely you will be able to get the item cheaper elsewhere. Don’t be tempted to pick an object up unless you intend to buy it and keep an eye out for any flaws so that you can offer a lower price.

Haggling takes practise, but once you’ve got into the swing of it, you are sure to end up with some real gems.

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