Master the Art of Haggling in Souks

Bargaining in markets is an art—and one we've learned to love during our travels! Whether it’s negotiating for a handwoven rug or a unique souvenir, knowing how to haggle can save money and make shopping way more fun. The trick? Finding the right balance between persistence and politeness.

First, we always start with a friendly approach. Vendors are much more likely to offer a better deal if they like you. A warm greeting, a little small talk, and genuine interest in their products go a long way. If we rush straight to asking for the price, it feels too transactional. Instead, we try to build a connection—it makes the whole experience more enjoyable.

One of our golden rules: never accept the first price. Vendors often start high, expecting customers to counter. A good strategy is to offer around 40-50% of the initial price. It’s important not to go too low and risk offending them, but at the same time, showing that we understand the game helps keep the negotiation fair.

One of our favorite tactics? If the price isn’t budging, we casually start to walk away. More often than not, the vendor will call us back with a better offer. But we’ve learned to be okay with walking away completely if needed—sometimes it’s just about the thrill of the bargain, and other times, we realize we didn’t want the item that badly after all.

Most importantly, we always keep it lighthearted and respectful. Haggling should be fun, not a battle. If we strike a deal, we follow through with a smile and a “thank you.” At the end of the day, it’s about finding a price that makes both sides happy. Happy bargaining!