11 Common Mistakes Tourists Make When Bargaining in Mexico

Mexico is a colorful country, culturally rich, historically colorful, and bustling with market places where negotiations are involved in the shopping experience. Although many street markets (whether for tacos and tortillas in Mexico City or seaside tchotchkes in Cancún) lend themselves to the act of bartering, the art of haggling is more about relationship building than score-getting. For many tourists, however, navigating through this unfamiliar custom is a bit like the first time on a tightrope without any safety net.

The good news is that bargaining doesn’t need to be intimidating. Luckily, keeping the experience positive involves steering clear of a few common missteps to ensure a neat exchange of smiles, stories, and possibly better prices. So, here are a few pitfalls to avoid as you haggle like a pro and walk away with both a fantastic deal, and a good story to tell.

Bargaining In A Rush

Bargaining is not a sprint, it is a dance. Trying to rush through it in the hope of getting a quicker price risks offending a seller or missing out on his or her best price. Chat with the vendor, take your time, and really show that you are interested in the products. A little patience can mean a good price and a good experience.

Overusing Your Poker Face

Staying calm is a good tactic, of course, but don’t be afraid to reveal a touch of enthusiasm for an item you like. Vendors are human also and they like sincere compliments. If you’re coming on too stiff and aloof then they may not feel as inclined to give you a better deal. Smile, laugh, and make the interaction not forced.

Starting Too Low

It may feel like a power play to open with an outrageously low price, but it rarely plays well. It may be viewed from the vendors’ side as a lack of respect for the vendor’s work and they may lose interest in negotiating. Rather than make an insulting first offer, make a reasonable first offer that leaves room for negotiation but doesn’t insult their craftsmanship or the value of their product.

Being Overly Attached To A Single Item

If you show too much love for a certain item, then the vendor knows that he has you hooked. Keep your interest casual and if you feel you have to walk away, then so be it. Sometimes, a little disinterest can go a long way to your bargaining position, and there is usually a similar item at another stall.

Starting Without Doing Your Homework

Entering a market unprepared with no clue what prices items should cost is like being at a trivia night without learning the questions. Before you finally offer an amount, take a few minutes to browse stalls and look at the prices. This way, you will know whether you are getting a good deal or paying the ‘tourist tax’. It’s easy, and it can prevent you from overpaying.

Assuming Everything Is Negotiable

There are many market vendors who don’t mind a little bit of back and forth, but there are some things that simply aren’t flexible. Take, for instance, hand-crafted goods and artwork that may have reflected hundreds of hours of labor. Bargaining for these too aggressively can be disrespectful. Before you dive into the process, gauge how open the vendor is to haggling.

Focusing Only On Price

Often tourists become so involved in trying to lower the price that they forget about quality. It’s worth the extra money for better craftsmanship or materials if you’re paying a bit extra. Remember, you want to pay a little more for something that’s well made than a ‘steal’ that falls apart the moment you get it home.

Forgetting To Bring Cash

In the local markets, for example, many smaller vendors in Mexico will only take cash. If you arrive with nothing but a credit card or large bills, you may not get a chance to negotiate well. Be sure to carry smaller denominations in pesos to make life easier when it comes to paying and to prevent overpaying, especially if you don’t have change.

Ignoring Cultural Cues

In Mexico, bargaining isn’t just about numbers; it’s about learning how to make a connection. A vendor looking to give you a price with a smile can turn sour if you respond with a curt demand for something lower. A warm and polite approach is likely to win you goodwill and, sometimes, better deals.

Giving Up Too Easily

If the vendor doesn’t accept your counteroffer on the spot, don’t assume you’ve lost the battle. Most bargains are based on back-and-forth negotiation until both parties are satisfied with the price. Keep the conversation friendly, and don’t be afraid to hold your ground (politely, of course), stay engaged.

Failing To Accept No For An Answer

You won’t always win in negotiation but that’s okay. If a vendor sticks firm to their price, don’t disrespect their decision and move on. You can push too hard and make an uncomfortable situation for both of you. No souvenir is worth soured vacation vibes!

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