What are your do's and don'ts when shopping at local markets or stores in foreign lands?

First, don't assume the shopping culture is the same abroad as back home. For example, in many countries shoppers can bargain in both markets and stores, including the jewelry section of department stores.

Second, don't assume shops will pack and ship according to your expectations.

Third, because many countries don't have consumer protection, shops don't offer guarantees or return privileges, and you may become a victim of scams, especially relating to jewelry. Try to pay with a major credit card if you can. Your credit card company may be able to help should you encounter difficulties with your purchase.

Should you always bargain when you are about to make a purchase in a foreign land?

Yes. The worst thing that can happen is to be told "We don't bargain here." Experienced shoppers are usually pleasantly surprised how much money they can save - 10% to 90% - by always testing their bargaining skills wherever they travel, including within the United States!

If you are reluctant to bargain, which is generally true for most Americans, try asking this nice question: "Is it possible to do any better on the price?" As you will quickly discover when traveling and shopping abroad, many things are possible! You just need to ask the right questions and not get upset if your suggestions are rejected.

Should you always carry the local currency?

In most countries it's a good idea to carry some local currency for transportation and tips. However, in some countries, such as Ecuador, the U.S. dollar is used as local currency or widely accepted in lieu of local money. In some countries, the U.S. dollar is preferred over local currency because of favorable black market exchange rates or a fear that the local currency may be devalued.

It's always good to check ahead on the status of U.S. dollars versus the local currency before entering a country. We always carry sufficient U.S. dollars to handle many shopping situations where it gives us an advantage.

When it comes time to exchange dollars for the local currency, you may find that you get a much better exchange rate using your credit card. So, watch how much currency you exchange. You may not need, nor want, much local currency.

Should you make major purchases in the local currency or by credit card?

We recommend using credit cards as protection against possible fraud. In many cases, a credit card company will assist you if you encounter a problem (misrepresentation or item not shipped) with your purchases during the first 30 days.

While some merchants may add a 3% to 10% "commission" for using your credit card (that's what they have to pay the credit card company), at the same time, you may get a better exchange rate on your money when you charge a purchase.

Merchants in traditional markets or very small shops may not accept credit cards, so cash will be king in these places. Make sure you carry sufficient U.S. cash reserves in order to handle such shopping situations.

Also, travel with a few blank checks. Some merchants will accept U.S. dollar checks on purchases that need to be shipped through them. Once your check clears, they will then ship your goods.

For more on the Krannichs' travel-shopping adventures, see their Impact Guides. They have also written about how travel lovers can combine their love of travel with making a living. See Jobs for Travel Lovers.