When in Bangkok, is it customary to haggle in retail shopping centres?

Question

I've heard that haggling is commonplace in the street markets, but are you also expected to haggle in the retail stores?

And if anyone has some tips for a first-timer, I would really appreciate it! :-)

Answer 1

As surprising as it may seem, haggling is not that different in Thailand than it is in Australia, the US, etc. Actually, I've found that I get some retail stores in western countries to beat lower prices for TVs, etc., but it's more restrictive here. What's even stranger is that prices are not as competitive here in Thailand from one store to another. I was shopping for a DVD recorder a couple months ago and found nearly identical prices on the same Sony brand everyplace I went. On the other hand, when I go to Saturday Markets in western countries, I can haggle in the same way as I can in similar markets here. What's funny is that there are often promotional bonus items given with a retail purchase here that you don't expect until after you've bought the product. Thais seem to have a real problem giving a cash discount but no problem in giving a gift with a purchase. Also, most department stores have membership cards that you can buy for 100 baht that give a 5% discount on non-sale items. Many restaurants also have membership cards that give 10% discounts. If your purchase is large, it's worth having the cards. As a tourist, you'll be able to have your VAT (7% sales tax) refunded at the airport if you're willing to go through the hassle to do so.

Answer 2

Haggling is commonplace in the markets, yes. But not in department stores. Generally, the price are set (ticketed).

However, that does not mean you can not try and ask for a "better price" or "discount" or "freebies" and "extras" if you are spending a lot of money in that store. It is worth a try. But do not haggle like what you would at the markets.

Be observant as to which shop you can haggle and which you can not. And this will come with experience. For example, you do not usually haggle for food item or at the supermarket (groceries).

Note that just because a vendor is IN a shopping mall, that does not mean the prices are set and that you can not haggle. (This has been explained by another answer above)

It will take a little time to learn but it is all good fun and you will enjoy all that Bangkok has to offer. Do your research. Talk to people who has been there. And above all - KEEP CALM. Haggling is about getting a decent and agreeable price for both YOU and the seller and have fun doing so. Don't get stressed over it. Remember that the seller has to make a living too.

And... depending on the price, DON'T haggle over every little thing. It is not worth your time and the seller's time to haggle over, say, 10 baht for a punnet of fruit.

DON'T stress out that you are a first timer and that you will not get a good price. Most of the stuff there is cheap anyway so you are NOT going to be worse off. IF the price seems good to you - buy it! You will get some experience along the way and next time you go to Bangkok - you will be more prepared.

Answer 3

Usually the only places you cannot haggle are department stores. I have tried bargaining in retails stores and sometimes you can get a slight discount. Nothing to lose by trying.

Most important be polite and cheerful. Do not show that you are irritated. Keep smiling. Remember there are plenty of places selling the same stuff, whether it's clothes or electronic goods. If the price is too high, just smile and say "thanks" then walk off to another shop. Sometimes the seller may call you back and give his "final" price.

If you know exactly what you want, get a rough idea of the price by checking a department store. That's helps to give you an idea of how much you can expect to pay.

Answer 4

I lived and went to school in Bangkok for quite some time....Is this your first time? You will love it! And in the markets and on the streets the rule of thumb is you want to pay about 1/2 of what they are asking....in stores though, you cannot haggle on price. You will be able to tell some stores off of the street are just market vendors with a indoor store. There it is okay too. The only places you cant is like department stores (i.e. Central, Villa Supermarket, and Malls). You will know... I spent alot of time there so if you have questions- hit me up!

Answer 5

Actually in places like Central Chidlom, Central being one of the biggest and best department stores, some haggling is useful. You won't get a great discount but 5% is certainly possible as these places have VIP cards that give that discount. Places like the Emporium or Paragon, haggling may not be so useful, but you can always ask!

Answer 6

Generally not in retail shops or shopping malls. The only time as far as I know you can, is when they setup a sort of market in the mall where they sell clothes/art..etc... Then, I think it is ok to bargain with them.

When bargaining, I would recommend cutting the price they are offering in half and then negotiate from there. Be confident and remember you can always start to walk away if you disagree with the price. Usually the seller will compromise and give it to you for your price. Lately, though I have noticed on certain items sometimes they will not budge and do not care if you walk away.


Have fun!

Answer 7

If you are 1st time to Bangkok i would suggest you go Pratunam or Bobey these 2 areas are markets for haggling prices and bet you they are real cheap.I dont suggest you go shopping mall for shopping unless you only want window shopping just to have a look.The 2 places i mentioned are top for both local and tourist and you will have whale of shopping .Place to stay i would suggest Asia hotel less than US50 per nite include american full breakfast and right in hotel is where the mrt located for your concevient.Happy shopping to you mate.

Answer 8

To be safe, always ask for a DISCOUNT. This way, the term applies to street markets and the retail stores inside malls.

Answer 9

you can haggle in the street or shops but not in shopping mall like robinsons.