Bargaining is a common practice in Thailand, particularly in tourist areas where prices are often inflated. Sellers expect tourists to bargain for a better price, so it’s important to be prepared to negotiate.
To help you with your quest for the best deals, remember to start by offering around 30-40% below the asking price, act nonchalant, and use the walk-away technique when needed.
Also, be prepared for counteroffers and don’t be afraid to negotiate. Armed with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to navigating the Thai markets and scoring some amazing deals.
Bargaining in Markets and Shops
When shopping in these tourist areas like Bangkok, vendors may initially offer a high price for a souvenir. But, with an appreciation of Thai culture, a friendly nonchalant attitude and the following bargaining tips, you can learn the art of being a Good Bargainer rather than just a haggler.
Don’t Be in a Hurry
Prepare to enjoy your shopping by not being in a hurry. If you are on a budget, dress like a local. It makes sense that if you’re wearing designer clothes you’ll be sized up as being wealthy and able to afford a higher price. Save the fancy clothes for a party and keep your bargaining character intact.
In Thai culture, politeness and respect go a long way. Thais appreciate it when visitors make an effort to speak the local language and approach the bargaining process in a friendly manner. Instead of demanding, “How much is this?” Start with a friendly smile and “hello” in Thai. This is “sawasdee ka” for a woman or “sawasee krab” for a man. This helps show the seller that you are respectful, approachable and someone they can get along with.
It’s best to not be in a hurry if you want a good price, especially for bigger purchases. Choose a time when the sales person isn’t busy. Close to the end of their opening hours is often a best time. If they are looking forward to going home, they may be more willing to quickly come down in price.
avoid being confrontational or aggressive
Remember most Thais are smaller than most tourists, so don’t invade their space. Balancing persistence and friendliness is key to successful bargaining in Thailand. While it’s important to be persistent in negotiating a better price, it’s equally important to do so in a friendly and respectful manner to ensure a positive outcome.
First you need to find out the going rates before you make your offer. It’s best to let the sales person come to you and act casual, rather than too eager. Rather than saying, “Oh, this is perfect!” a little smile and “I’m just looking for a moment” is better. Take the time to make small talk. Ask about their family and shop. By building a friendly connection, the seller then wants to give you a good price.
Know when to be patient and quiet
When bargaining in Thailand, it’s common to start by offering around 30-40% below the asking price.
If the counter offer isn’t what you need, you have options. You can ask for a discount (this works especially well if you want more than one t-shirt for example). Tell them what your budget allows; take out cash rather than a card, and say, “I can give you this cash” or ask, “Is that your best offer?” or “I’m sorry, that’s not good enough.”
Don’t be surprised if you need time to make several counter offers to reach a mutually agreeable price.
If the price still isn’t what you feel is reasonable, and you feel that negotiations are stuck, you can say, “I have to go now, goodbye!” Start walking away if the price is doesn’t feel right. This sometimes encourages the seller to come down in price. If not you can always try another shop or return another day.
If this sounds like it’s too much work or just not for you, consider the benefits of the shops with set prices. The prices are a little higher, but the quality and service are also higher. You might be able to get a small discount for cash but bargaining isn’t expected or encouraged, so you can’t expect that discount. So your only option is to pay the ticket price or find another shop.
Bargaining for Transportation: Tuk-Tuks, Taxis, etc.
Tired of having to debate a fair price for a transportation? There’s no haggling over the price of public buses, ferries, BTS or MTS in Bangkok. They all have fixed prices.
But even locals have to bargain for a fair price with taxis and Tuk-Tuks, songtaews, and private drivers.
How to Bargain for Tuk-Tuks and taxis like a local
Bargaining for transportation is going to be one of those key times when you’re going to need to play your A-game if you want to arrive at a fair price. Fortunately, you can take the same approach you’ve practiced in the market and use many of the same skills, but perhaps at a faster speed.
One good practice is to get to know how far you are going and how much a local would expect to pay to get there. Say you’d like to go to the Golden Temple, for example. You can simply ask at your hotel or ask a friendly local Thai on the street, who isn’t busy, for their help. Remember your “Sawasdee” and smile. They will likely tell you how much you could expect to pay.
Although taxis are supposed to charge by the meter, they will often refuse and try to set a ridiculously fixed price. Don’t worry, you can still offer the fair price and if not accepted start to get out of the taxi. If he’s still too high, you can try the next taxi. You can see this only works if you’re prepared for a couple of minutes of bargaining, and not running late.
Private drivers usually charge a flat fee per hour, half, or full-day. You can negotiate a lower price and come to a mutual agreement, however this may mean fewer stops, so it pays to pull out a map to discuss the route before setting off.
Saving on Tours
Think of the guide’s perspective. If they are doing a day tour, it makes sense to take enough people to fill up the van or mini bus. So by traveling with a group, your price can be reduced. This is especially appealing if the group comes ready made.
Check the tour to make sure you want to go to all the places. Could the cost be reduced by eliminating the third temple for example, or perhaps skipping the huge meal that might be too hot for your palate?
Why do they try to charge tourists ridiculous prices?
Because lots of tourists will pay them instead of bargaining and like everyone, the guides and drivers like to take home as much money as they can. If you have lots of money to give them, it will make them happy. If you are on a budget, you now have the tools to have fun bargaining like a local.
Bargaining for Accommodation
Accommodation provides fewer possibilities for bargaining, especially if you’re booking online from home and staying for a night or two.
However, with some research you might be able to find a place where you can bargain for a longer stay. Or perhaps you can bargain to have a bar fridge and microwave included in the price of your room. This is often more attractive to a landlord, especially if you come on the shoulder season or if you want to stay for two or three months or even more in the winter.
Five Bargaining Tips for Accommodation in Bangkok:
Research prices beforehand: Before you arrive in Bangkok, Do some research on the average prices for accommodation in the area you plan to stay. This will give you an idea of what to expect and what you can realistically negotiate for. It can also help you identify any deals or promotions that might be available.
Build a relationship with the owner or manager: When you arrive at your accommodation, take the time to get to know the owner or manager. Ask them about their business, their family, and their interests. By building a friendly relationship, you may be able to negotiate a lower price or receive additional perks (such as free breakfast or a room upgrade).
Be willing to compromise: When negotiating for a lower price, be prepared to compromise. For example, you might offer to pay upfront or stay for a longer period of time in exchange for a discount. You could also ask if there are any rooms available that are slightly smaller or less luxurious than the one you booked originally.
Highlight your loyalty: If you are a repeat customer or plan to stay in the area for an extended period of time, be sure to mention this to the owner or manager. They may be more willing to negotiate a lower price if they know you are a loyal customer or plan to stay for an extended period of time.
Stay flexible: Finally, be flexible in your negotiations. If the owner or manager is not willing to budge on the price, consider asking for other perks such as free Wi-Fi, a complimentary breakfast, or a late checkout time. These perks can add value to your stay without necessarily lowering the overall price.
Overall, the key to successful bargaining for a lower price for accommodation in Thailand and Bangkok is to be friendly, respectful, and willing to compromise. By building a relationship with the owner or manager, highlighting your loyalty, and staying flexible, you may be able to negotiate a lower price or receive additional perks that make your stay even more enjoyable.
Bargaining Basics
Wai and Smiling
A key aspect of Thai culture is the “wai,” which is a respectful greeting accompanied by a slight bow and a smile. The gesture is meant as a sign of respect, and it can go a long way in establishing rapport with vendors. Smiling is also important, as it indicates friendliness and a willingness to engage with the locals. Be sure to offer a friendly smile when bargaining, as this can often lead to better deals.
Learning Body Language
In Thailand, body language is almost as important as the words spoken. When bargaining, it’s essential to show sincerity and kindness through your body language. To do this, stand at a comfortable distance from the vendor, avoid aggressive hand gestures, and maintain an open and relaxed posture. Engage in a playful manner, making jokes or offering a smile while bargaining.
Famous Shopping Destinations in Thailand
Bangkok’s Market Hubs
When it comes to shopping in Bangkok, two of the most famous market hubs are Chatuchak Weekend Market and Pratunam Market. Chatuchak, one of the largest markets in Thailand, is a go-to destination for shoppers, offering everything from clothing to handicrafts.
- Chatuchak Weekend Market: Open on weekends, this massive market has over 15,000 stalls selling a wide range of products such as clothes, accessories, and souvenirs.
- Pratunam Market: Known for clothing and fabrics, this indoor market offers variety at reasonable prices.
Feel free to explore these markets and don’t be afraid to bargain for a better price, as the initial prices might be higher for tourists.
Touristy Areas
In areas that cater to tourists, you’ll often find a mix of souvenir shops and street vendors selling items such as clothes, accessories, and handicrafts. Some popular touristy areas to shop in Thailand include:
- Patong Beach in Phuket: Famous for its vibrant nightlife, Patong Beach is also a top shopping destination. Don’t forget to visit the lively Jungceylon Shopping Mall while you’re there.
- Pattaya: Known for beaches, water sports, and nightlife, Pattaya also has a wide range of shopping options – from local markets to modern shopping malls.
Remember that items sold in touristy areas tend to be slightly more expensive due to the added “tourist tax.” So be prepared to bargain for the best deals.
Khao San Road
Another famous spot for shopping in Thailand is Khao San Road in Bangkok. Known as the backpacker’s paradise, Khao San Road offers a bustling atmosphere with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops catering to young travelers.
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience in a lively environment, be sure to stop by Khao San Road on your trip to Thailand. Keep in mind that prices here might be a bit inflated, so be ready to put your bargaining skills to good use.
Dealing with Fixed Price Shops
In Thailand, bargaining is a common practice at local markets and street vendors, but not all places are open for negotiation. When you come across fixed-price shops, it’s essential to know how to handle the situation without offending the shop owners.
Fixed-price shops are usually found in shopping centers or more modern establishments, where clearly marked prices are displayed on items. In these settings, attempting to haggle could be seen as disrespectful. Make sure you scan for price tags or signs that indicate a no-bargaining policy before initiating the negotiation process.
Comparative Shopping is Key
Even though you may not be able to bargain in these shops, there are still ways to make sure you’re getting a good deal. First, familiarize yourself with the average price levels and quality of the products in the Thai market. Doing this helps you assess the fairness of the fixed prices and decide whether to make a purchase.
You can also compare prices in different shops to ensure you’re not overpaying.
While shopping in fixed-price establishments, keep in mind the key difference between these shops and haggle-friendly venues. Fixed-price shops often offer higher quality products and better customer service. The items sold at the Thai market typically cater to tourists and people looking for more affordable options.
With this knowledge, you can set your expectations accordingly and decide where to shop based on your preferences.
Remember, when shopping in Thailand, it’s important to remain friendly and respectful towards shop owners, both in traditional Thai markets and fixed-price shops. By understanding and respecting each shop’s pricing strategy, you can enjoy a more pleasant shopping experience while getting the best value for your money.
