Shopping in Asia can be a bargain, but only if you know what to expect and how to play the game. Use these tips for a great shopping experience in Asia.
Watch Out for Cheap Fakes
From perfume to purses to cigarettes -- chances are that someone in Asia has figured out a way to make a cheap copy, and is probably trying to pass it off as the "real deal." Common sense dictates that the Rolex watch you just purchased for $25 will probably not keep ticking for long.
While spotting obvious fakes such as DVD copies is easy, some replications -- such as name-brand clothing -- are much more difficult to detect.
Keep these in mind while shopping in Asia:
- You can safely assume that a majority of the Western-branded items you encounter in markets and shops around Asia are possible imitations.
- Fakes aren't only found in street markets; even nice stores in shopping malls carry their fair share of cheap knock-offs.
Always Shop Around
Buying that nifty souvenir in the first place you see nearly always leads to frustration later when you see the same thing for half the price. Shops in places such as China tend to carry many of the same items -- sometimes arranged identically to the shop next door!
If you cannot get the price you want on something, keep walking; chances are that you will see the same item in the neighboring shops!
- Read more about shopping in China.
Negotiation is Not Optional
Although uncomfortable for many Westerners, negotiating prices in Asia is a way of life; the merchants love the thrill and you should as well. Paying the asking price on any item not only hurts your bank account, but travelers who follow behind you face inflated prices thanks to those who do not negotiate.
Approach haggling prices in Asia as a game, smile a lot, and have fun while driving a hard bargain. Despite their claims, no merchant is going to lose money or go hungry when selling you something!
- Learn how to negotiate prices in Asia.
- Read about bargaining prices in China.
Be Courteous While Shopping in Asia
Traveling in poor countries can sometimes make you feel like a walking dollar sign as people -- some more persistent than others -- constantly try to pull you into their shops or sell you something.
Remember that most are only trying to feed their families or improve their quality of life. Be courteous and don't treat locals as vending machines for purchasing cheap goods to show off at home. Saying a polite "hello" and "thank you" in the local language goes a long way, and will inevitably help you score better deals.
- Read about how to say hello in Asia.
- Learn about the concept of saving face in Asia.
Be a Responsible Shopper
Some of those souvenirs found in Asian markets come from nefarious sources. Sea shells, animal products, and items produced with child labor should be avoided so that harmful practices are not perpetuated.
Don't assume that the trinket or wooden elephant purchased in Thailand was made locally; many souvenirs found throughout Southeast Asia are produced in China. Buy from fair trade shops and directly from artisans and local craftsmen whenever possible.
- Learn how to lessen your impact with responsible travel in Asia.
Other Tips for Shopping in Asia
Watch Your PocketsCrowded tourist markets tend to attract pick pockets who prey on foreigners walking around with lots of cash. Keep your money hidden, tie or close shopping bags, and separate your funds so that you do not have to pull out a wad of cash when making a transaction.
Don't Believe Everything You HearUnless you are an expert, be wary of claims on the age and authenticity of antiques or one-of-a-kind items found in Asia. Buying gems -- a very common scam in Southeast Asia -- as well as silver and gold jewelery comes with risk.
- Read about other scams in Southeast Asia.
Although a lot of expensive, Western-branded clothing is made in Asia, tags and logos on clothing do not always ensure quality. Sometimes rejects from factories are purchased and sold in department stores.
Clothing defects are tricky to spot unless you try on an item. The size listed on a tag may simply be wrong, or shirt sleeves may be different lengths.
