If you ask us, a healthy shopping spree is a crucial part of any getaway,especially when we’re jetting off to countries abroad and shopping regions filled with one-of-a-kind finds we won’t see in the states. Not only do these things remind us of the incredible places we’ve been, but they also add a global touch to our homes and wardrobes that is simply irreplaceable. That said, there are a few things you should know before you swipe that credit card abroad. Keep reading for seven rules for shopping while traveling…

1. Don’t be afraid to barter (in the right situations).

Coming from American malls and stores where prices are generally set in stone, the idea of negotiating a price can seem uncomfortable. But in fact, in many countries you’re expected to haggle a bit on the price. This is where you’ll want to get accustomed with local customs—read up on what the shopping etiquette is in the country you’re going to, and prepare yourself to shop in that fashion (pun intended!). Depending on where you’re visiting, it may pay to be assertive (but not rude) about what you’re willing to pay, while other countries respond better to gentle and polite negotiation. Bargaining can be a nuanced art, and the “rules” can even vary within a single country (i.e. If you’re in Italy, don’t anticipate negotiating at the designer shops in the Piazza del Duomo in Milan, but you should definitely haggle in the street markets in Florence). A little research before your shopping spree, and you’ll do just fine.

2. Don’t be fooled into a bad deal.

Or in other words, always be aware of currency exchange rates. Depending on the country you’re visiting, the discrepancy between currencies can vary widely, meaning you may be overpaying (or getting a killer deal you could miss out on) without even knowing it. Keep a currency exchange app handy like XE Currency, so you can do a quick calculation to know what you’re paying in US dollars. Also keep in mind that in most cases, you can’t return what you buy. So make sure you’re making an informed decision before you hand over that cash.

3. Carry at least two credit cards and cash.

This doesn’t apply so much if you’re just sticking around the states, but if you’re venturing abroad you’ll want to make sure you have at least a few forms of payment—ones that are free of foreign transaction fees, nonetheless. For one, not every merchant is guaranteed to accept your credit card (or any credit card at all), so you’ll want to have cash on hand for those moments when you want to make small purchases or get a souvenir at a cash-only shop. Not to mention, some countries are more prone to theft than others, so it’s always a good idea to have a backup form of payment in case one gets stolen.

4. Alert your bank beforehand.

Let’s just say, if you don’t… you might not be making any purchases at all (and nobody wants that, right?). If you’re traveling out of the country, you’ll want to alert your credit card company of the dates you’ll be gone and where you’re going. Otherwise, they could freeze your account due to suspicion of credit card fraud.

Newrybar Merchants in Byron Bay, Australia

5. Make sure you have the means to get your goods home.

Whether that means packing a lightweight duffle in your suitcase that you can fill and carry on the plane on your way home, or making shipping arrangements, you’ll want to have a few different options to get your purchases back to the states in good condition. This especially applies if you’re the type that likes to pick up treasures like bulky décor items for your home, artwork, or fragile finds that aren’t safe in a suitcase. But keep in mind, international shipping is almost never cheap, so prepare your wallet accordingly if you plan on making large-scale purchases abroad—and always buy insurance for those shipments where you can.

6. But first, research.

If you’re in the market for a pricey and/or authentic find from a certain country, like leather goods, art, textiles, or traditional clothing, make sure to do thorough research before you hit the shops so you know exactly what to look for (and what not to look for). Get acquainted with everything from marks of genuine craftsmanship to tips on how to catch knock-offs, so you can be confident in what you’re paying for. This is also a good place to mention that if the “bargain” you’re being offered seems too good to be true, then it probably is. And on the flip side, just because something is expensive doesn’t mean it’s authentic or good quality. The bottom line? Research, research, research.

7. Venture off the beaten path.

The sad truth of many international tourist traps is that they are designed with the intention of getting Americans and other travelers to buy their mass-produced goods and take them home. While the bustling markets can be fun, you’re bound to find even more special treasures if you venture off the beaten path and get the inside scoop from some locals. Some of the best recommendations for places to shop can come from unsuspecting people like your bus driver, restaurant waiter, or a local you befriend on public transport. Ask for the location of antique shops, family-owned businesses, and other hidden gems that you might have not known about otherwise.

Gray exploring the markets of Bolivia

What tips do you have for shopping abroad?

We’re itching for a good shopping trip right about now… Guarantee we’re not the only ones! For more travel tips, tricks, and city guides, get lost in our Travel section on the blog, right here.

Xx Team GM

Photos: @graymalinpersonal on Instagram