Be Prepared to Bargain

Prices for most items (save those in food and convenience stores and a few fixed-price establishments) are not established, and you are supposed to barter with the vendor until you agree on a price that presumably satisfies both sides. So the idea goes, but in practice, this is possibly the most annoying aspect of shopping in Egypt because nothing occurs swiftly. As a visitor, you will nearly always overpay. The best you can do is haggle hard and refuse to buy something if you believe the price is not fair. If a vendor gives a price, respond with no more than half of that amount (and likely no more than a quarter). That will put you on good footing for your negotiation.

You should brace yourself since vendors can be pushy, so if you're not interested in an item, don't ask about it. Simply put your head down and walk on. If you pause to touch or appreciate anything, you will almost certainly be asked for your price. If you can't agree on one, it's fine to walk away without regrets. Just don't be shocked if the vendor changes his mind and pursues you all the way to your bus's door. Cairo offers the most diverse range of items, but many are imported and of low quality. Touts at several of the post-temple marketplaces along the Nile are among the most aggressive salespeople, particularly in Edfu and Esna. Many people believe that shopping in Aswan is more pleasurable, but you'll still need to negotiate hard. It's definitely one of the things about Egypt you should know if you want to buy something here.