Bargaining when buying something is fairly common in Vietnam, especially in local markets. For foreign visitors, learning how to bargain in Vietnam is worthwhile as it allows them to get the best price and communicate with the natives. Here are some useful tips for bargaining in Vietnam.
Why You Should Bargain in Vietnam
The act of bargaining in Vietnam does not mean you disrespect the sellers. It is simply a method for getting the best deal between you and the sellers, giving you an excellent chance to buy products at a considerably lower price. Besides, it would be best if you did not keep the thought that bargaining might damage your reputation, as almost all Vietnamese people bargain whenever they shop at local markets.
In some tourist attractions, foreign travelers are likely to be overcharged more frequently than in other places, as many Vietnamese people consider foreigners wealthy and willing to pay a significant amount of money. It is another reason you should bargain when buying something, as it would help reduce that discriminatory attitude among sellers.
Useful Tips for Bargaining in Vietnam
Learning Some Simple Phrases in Vietnamese
It is an essential and most effective way to strike a successful bargain on your Vietnam travels. The first thing you should learn in Vietnamese is how to say numbers, as it will be extremely helpful when discussing prices with local people. Besides, it is advisable for you to know some simple phrases in Vietnamese, including how to ask for the price and express your feelings.
Start the Bargaining at Half of the Initial Price
Since many merchants tend to ask foreigners to pay much higher than they do local people, you should offer half of the initial price at first. It might sound crazy, but don’t worry. This is how bargaining in Vietnam begins.
Many sellers often refuse your offer at first because they are selling products with the best price and quality. In such cases, you should continue bargaining and gradually raise the price until both of you reach an agreement. Before getting the deal, you should not show the seller any interest in the thing you want to buy because this could make it more difficult for you to get the most reasonable price.
Shop around to Know the Market Price
As a foreigner, you will not know the market price and might hesitate to negotiate with the sellers. So, this tip for bargaining in Vietnam should be helpful for you. To know the market price, shopping around before buying something is highly advisable. This would not only make it possible for you to compare the differences in price among shops but also help you to get the preferable price when bargaining in Vietnamese markets.
Read more on 10 Things to Buy in a Vietnamese Market
Pretend to Walk Away
Walking away is always an effective bargaining tactic. This method should be used when you are nearly getting the price you want, but the merchant does not agree with you. If you walk away, many sellers will call you back and give you the price you want.
Observe and Learn from Local Buyers
When shopping in Vietnamese local markets, you should observe how locals buy something and how they bargain with the sellers. By observing and imitating local people, you can find your way to blend into Vietnamese culture and know if there is a significant difference in the quoted price between you and local people.
Maintain a Positive Attitude
As bargaining is generally a discussion in which both sides should be respected, you should avoid negative attitudes toward sellers. You could also consider bargaining a chance to practice your Vietnamese and persuasive skills so that you can enjoy it. Always be friendly and patient, as many local sellers find it challenging to communicate with foreigners. Besides, a tip for bargaining in Vietnam is to show a little sense of humor; it will break the ice between you and the sellers.
Remember: You’re Not Missing out on Much
If you suspect a seller is deliberately trying to overcharge you or even scam you into buying their products, don’t hesitate to say no and walk away. There are always nicer and more genuine vendors who appreciate your business.
Summary of How to Bargain in Vietnam
Shopping in local markets could become easier and more interesting once you know how to bargain in Vietnam. Although it may not always be possible to reach the best deal, bargaining is a good chance to communicate with local people and explore Vietnamese culture.
Related Articles:
Shopping Malls in Ho Chi Minh City
Other information and tips for your first time in Ho Chi Minh City