Travelling the world is an incredibly exciting experience that you’d surely love to do again and again. You get to visit new places and immerse yourself in different cultures. However, there’s one not-so-thrilling part of such an adventure: the possibility of facing price discrimination.

Ever found yourself paying extra for a plane ticket or a hotel room just because you’re a tourist? That’s price discrimination. It’s a situation where businesses charge you a different price for the same product or service that others are buying or availing of.

As a tourist or traveller, dealing with price discrimination can be really frustrating, but you can take steps to prevent it. Here are some practical tips to ensure you get the best deals while you travel.

Research and Compare Prices

The first step in preventing price discrimination in your travels is to arm yourself with information. The power of research cannot be underestimated, and online resources are your best friends in this endeavour.

If you are looking for the ideal accommodation for a romantic escape, numerous travel booking websites and apps are now available at your disposal, and each may offer different prices for the same flight or hotel. Take advantage of this by comparing prices across various platforms, so you’ll be better equipped to identify any significant price differences. Don’t settle for the first option that pops up.

Clear Your Browsing Cookies

Ever noticed that the price of a flight or hotel room seems to magically rise after you’ve been searching for it? That’s because some websites use cookies to track your search history and may show you higher prices based on your repeated searches. To combat this, clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode while browsing for travel deals.

Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

While doing your research, VPNs can be your secret weapon against location-based price discrimination. VPN allows you to change your virtual location and make it appear as if you’re browsing the web from a different place. By masking your location, you may be able to avoid geographically targeted pricing. Experiment with different server locations to uncover hidden deals.

Consider Local Recommendations

When you’re exploring a new place, locals are your best guides. They know the ins and outs of their area, especially those tucked-away treasures that can save you money and give your trip an authentic touch.

For example, you can ask a local for restaurant advice. You can expect to find not just tasty, real food but also those little-known spots where you get great value for your money. These are the places where you can eat like a local and enjoy delicious meals without price discrimination. In cities like Bangkok, Thailand, street food stalls favoured by locals often serve delicious, affordable meals that outshine pricey tourist-oriented restaurants.

Locals are also your best source for finding lesser-known, yet fascinating, attractions. In Rome, Italy, for instance, the Colosseum is often one of the top destinations among tourists. However, a local’s tip might lead you towards Palatine Hill, a nearby spot with rich history and incredible city views. The best part? It’s way more budget-friendly and far less crowded.

Negotiate When Appropriate

In some parts of the world, haggling is more than a pastime; it’s a cultural norm. In Morocco, for example, haggling is expected when shopping in local markets. Sellers expect you to negotiate with them to arrive at a fair price. If you don’t engage in this custom, you might end up paying a higher tourist price.

Therefore, embrace the opportunity to negotiate prices, particularly in local markets and charming street stalls. Vendors anticipate some friendly haggling, and your willingness to engage can work in your favour. Just remember, a sprinkle of politeness and respect can sweeten the deal.

Book Tours Directly

Exploring your destination through guided tours is a fantastic way to immerse yourself. However, beware of third-party booking platforms that often add on extra fees and commissions. Instead, opt for direct bookings with tour operators to score a better deal and ensure your hard-earned money benefits those providing the experience.

Be Mindful of Local Customs

Understanding and respecting local customs and etiquette is not only a sign of being a responsible traveller but also a way to avoid inadvertently falling victim to price discrimination. Offending the locals can lead to less favourable treatment and potentially higher costs.

For instance, in India, removing your shoes before you step into a temple is a sign of respect. If you don’t, you might be asked to leave or even charged extra for not following this tradition. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference in how you’re treated and what you pay during your visit.

Be Respectful and Polite

Last but not least, don’t underestimate what kindness can do while you travel. Treating locals with respect, politeness, and a friendly demeanour can go a long way in avoiding price discrimination.

Locals are more likely to provide better service and fair treatment when they feel valued and respected. So, wear your warm smile, use polite words like “please” and “thank you,” and be open-minded—it’s your recipe for a memorable and discrimination-free journey.

Over To You

In a nutshell, to prevent price discrimination in your travels, consider a blend of local insights, savvy comparisons, skillful negotiation, and cultural awareness. With these strategies, you’ll be able to explore your destinations more affordably and return with priceless memories. Happy and discrimination-free adventures ahead!