Shopping in English: How to Ask, Negotiate, and Pay Like a Local

Whether you're browsing a street market for souvenirs, looking for a specific size in a clothing store, or trying to understand a receipt at the checkout — shopping in English is one of the most practical skills you can build as a traveler or someone living abroad.

The conversations are short, predictable, and completely manageable with the right phrases. This guide walks you through three common shopping environments with ready-to-use dialogue for each one.

In a Clothing Shop

Staff in clothing shops will usually approach and ask if you need help. Here's how a typical exchange goes:

At a Clothes Shop

Staff:"Hi there, can I help you with anything?"

You:"Yes, I'm looking for a [item — jacket / dress / shirt] in [colour]."

Staff:"What size are you?"

You:"I'm usually a medium / size 38 / I'm not sure — could I try both a small and a medium?"

You:"Where are the fitting rooms?"

You:"Do you have this in a different colour? / Is this available in a larger size?"

You:"I'll take this one, thank you. / I don't think it's quite right — thank you anyway."

Useful Phrases for Clothing Shops

This is a little too big / too small / too long / too short.

Do you have this on sale / at a reduced price?

Is this the last one you have in this size?

Could I try this on?

What is your return policy if it doesn't fit?

Can I pay by card? / Do you accept contactless?

💡 In most countries, you can return an unworn item with a receipt within a week or two. Always ask about the return policy before you buy — especially for expensive items. The key phrase is: "What is your return policy?"

At a Market or Street Stall

Markets are a wonderful part of travel — and one of the few places in English-speaking countries where gentle negotiation on price is sometimes possible, especially for handmade or artisan goods. In regular markets and supermarkets, prices are fixed.

At a Market

You:"Excuse me, how much is this?"

Seller:"That one is twelve pounds."

You:"Could you do it for ten? / Is that your best price?"

You:"If I buy two, is there a discount?"

You:"I'll think about it and come back." (if you want to look around first)

You:"I'll take it. Do you have a bag?"

A note on negotiating: in formal shops and supermarkets in English-speaking countries, the price is fixed and it would be unusual to ask for a discount. At street markets and craft fairs, a polite question about the price is sometimes acceptable — but always read the situation. If the seller seems busy or the stall is clearly professional, just pay the listed price.

At the Checkout / Paying

The payment exchange is one of the shortest and most predictable conversations in English. These are the phrases you'll need:

At the Checkout

Cashier:"Did you find everything okay?"

You:"Yes, thank you." — OR — "Almost — do you have [item] anywhere?"

Cashier:"That'll be £24.50. Paying by card?"

You:"Yes, card please." / "Cash — here's thirty." / "Contactless, please."

Cashier:"Would you like a bag?"

You:"Yes please." / "No thank you, I have my own."

Cashier:"Here's your receipt."

You:"Thank you! Have a good day."

When Something Goes Wrong

Occasionally you'll need to return something, report a mistake on a receipt, or ask about a missing item. These situations feel uncomfortable, but the phrases are simple:

"I'd like to return this, please." + Here is my receipt.
"I think there's a mistake on my receipt — this item is showing the wrong price."
"I was charged twice for this item."
"I'd like a refund, please." or "Could I exchange this for a different size?"
"Is there a manager I could speak to?" — for more serious issues

Always keep your receipt when shopping abroad — it's your proof of purchase for returns and for customs if you're asked about items you bought.

More Travel English

Our full Travel English page has phrases for airports, hotels, restaurants, transport and more — all organized by situation.

Explore Travel English →