How to Bargain at Russian Flea Markets

Russian flea markets are a lot of fun. Lots of people, lots of old, useless objects, really low prices.

Is it?

For a Russian, yes, for a stranger, not always. The vendors, recognizing a foreigner, may probably try to raise the price. After reading this short guide, however, you will be ready to face a flea market – the Udelnaya, for example, one of the biggest in the world – and go back home with the bag full of unnecessities.

A Few Tips

– Don’t be afraid to talk with the vendors, to ask prices if they are not shown. This is the only way you can actually know how much is the average price, and thus head toward your target with the consciousness of how much you can bargain.

– Always be polite and well-going. Socializing with vendors will increase the chances of a discount. And you will hear a couple of good stories, too.

– Bring a friend! One who also knows Russian. By feigning urgency, preoccupation for the few rubles you have left or just uncertainty about your taste for vintage things, it will push the vendor to accommodate your requests.

– Don’t be afraid of walking away from something. Which means: don’t grow fond of potential purchases. If the trade is just not possible, go look for something else.

– Last, but not least: take your time. This is going to be an experience by itself, the purchases are an optional. You might even want to go a second time (combining with a visit to the Hermitage Storage Centre, which is really close). And, most of all, have fun!

A Small Dictionary

– Столько стоит эта шкатулка? – “How much does this box cost?“ Standard question. A шкатулка is a small, typical Russian decorated box, in which women held their jewels.

– Я дам вам.. – “I give you…“ It is always best, once you find out what is the average price of that item, to offer a quantity of rubles, instead of asking first. Alternatively, this can be a follow up question after you have been told the price of a certain item. Remember to lower that amount by a good percentage – depending on the situation, from 50 to 25%.

– Можно платить только наличными? – “is it only possible to pay cash?” The answer is probably going to be yes, but if you’re short on cash, this is the way to make sure.

Have you been to a Russian flea market? Were you able to bargain? Share us your experiences in the comment section below!

а typical Russian шкатулка!

Posted by Alessandro M.

Alessandro M. is currently an Intern at Liden & Denz, where he also studies Russian. He will keep you updated on cultural events, curiosities, fun facts and much more though his articles!