We all know the usual tips for shopping smart during the festive season—make a list, budget well, and haggle like your life depends on it. But you see, those are just the basics. If you really want to unlock shopping greatness this season, you need the pro secrets that most people haven’t even thought about. Guardian Life gives you ten festive shopping secrets for a seamless shopping this season. Check them out:
1. Shop after sundown—The magic hour trick
Here’s a hack that’s not on anyone’s radar: shop after sundown. Most vendors are ready to close for the day and are desperate to offload their remaining goods, so they’re more likely to give you the “last price” without much argument.
Why It Works is that vendors want to avoid storing perishable items overnight or packing too many goods, so they’re more flexible on prices.
READ ALSO: 3 markets to get the best Christmas gift items in Lagos
2. Use the ‘Eavesdrop Method’ to save big
Stand near other customers who are already negotiating. Listen carefully to the prices they’re being offered. By the time it’s your turn, you’ll know the vendor’s limits and can negotiate better without the guesswork. You can casually mention you overheard the lower price. They’ll feel pressured to match it or risk losing face.
3. Check the ‘hidden corners’ for discounts
In big stores or markets, vendors often stash discounted items at the back or in less visible corners. That’s where you’ll find those deals that others miss.
So that beautiful Ankara fabric you thought was out of your budget? It’s probably folded in the vendor’s “abandoned” pile because nobody noticed it. Check again.
4. Bring your own calculator
Always double-check the calculations. It will save you from being swindled. Some market sellers (not all) “mistakenly” inflate totals while doing mental math. Pull out your calculator and confirm the numbers yourself. Act like you’re double-checking for yourself, not them—it keeps things polite while protecting your pocket.
5. Bundle random items for a discount
Most shoppers focus on buying single items, but here’s a trick: group unrelated things together and ask for a bulk discount. For instance, buy rice, oil, and seasoning cubes from the same vendor and negotiate as if you’re buying in bulk. Vendors appreciate higher sales volumes and might cut you a deal to clear stock.
6. Be ‘Bestie’ with the market boys/women
Market porters (those young guys who help carry your load) are your secret weapon. Treat them well, and they’ll take you to vendors with the best deals. A pro move is to offer a small tip upfront and ask them to show you “where things are cheap.” These boys or women know every corner of the market better than Google Maps. Try this especially if you intend to shop at Mile 12 market, Idumota market or any big market in your area.
7. Ask for ‘January prices’
This is one trick most people overlook. During festive seasons, prices are inflated because vendors know we’ll pay. But if you casually mention, “Please, give me January price,” they’ll often knock off a little to keep your loyalty.
Vendors know January is dry season for business. A good deal now ensures you come back later.
8. Buy before market day ends
Here’s the psychology: when sellers are packing up for the day, they’re tired, and their guard is down. They just want to go home and might offer better deals to avoid hauling their goods back. This works best for perishable goods like vegetables, fruits, or even meat.
9. Create a vendor squad for loyalty perks
Stop shopping at random places. Build a relationship with specific vendors who know your face and “gist.” Loyal customers often get better deals, freebies, or first dibs on premium items. Your vendor might actually give you a reduced price if you constantly buy from them.
READ ALSO: Christmas Outfits and Pajamas to Celebrate the Season
10. Use the ‘Silent Stare’ technique
When a vendor quotes a ridiculous price, don’t argue immediately. Instead, pause, stare at them with a mix of disbelief and amusement, and wait for them to talk again. Nine times out of ten, they’ll start lowering the price to justify it.
Nobody likes awkward silences, and vendors will fill the gap by negotiating down.
I hope this tip helps in your next shopping during this festive season. Happy shopping!
