Traveling and Haggling in Morocco

2. The 25% rule: While some stores offer fixed prices that are closer to the actual value of the carpets for sale, others are a barterer's paradise where the 25% rule should be closely heeded. Whatever the salesperson says is the price of the carpet, simply counter the offer at 25% of that suggested price. While this is never what you will inevitable pay for the carpet, the low-ball counter-negotiation will give you a lot of leverage in the ensuing negotiations and likely lead to a price you feel comfortable with. If uncomfortable with the local currency, consider negotiating in U.S. dollars.

1. To ship or not to ship: Once you have settled on a price you are happy with, try to negotiate the shipping and tax into the final price. The salespersons are surprisingly lax (or just exhausted) at the end of bargaining and often don't negotiate shipping as aggressively as they could. Adding on a hefty shipping fee means you'll ultimately save a few hundred dollars in the end. Also consider carrying on your purchases or checking them on your return flight.