Shopping abroad is one of travel's great pleasures. Whether you are hunting for souvenirs, looking for local fashion, or simply need to pick up essentials, knowing the right phrases makes the experience smoother and more enjoyable. This lesson covers everything you need for successful shopping in English.
From department stores to local markets, the vocabulary in this lesson will help you find what you are looking for, ask about prices, and complete your purchases with confidence.
Entering a Store
When you enter a shop, a salesperson may greet you and offer help. Here are common phrases you will hear and how to respond:
Salesperson
Hello! Can I help you find anything today?
You
I am just looking for now, thank you.
Salesperson
No problem. Let me know if you need any help.
"I am looking for a winter jacket."
Telling the salesperson what you want to find.
"Where can I find the shoe section?"
Asking for the location of a specific department.
Asking About Products
When you find something interesting, you may need to ask questions about it:
What size is this?
Asking about clothing or shoe size
Do you have this in blue?
Asking for a different color
Is this on sale?
Asking about discounts
What is it made of?
Asking about materials
Sizes and Fit
Understanding size terminology is essential when shopping for clothes and shoes:
Small / Medium / Large
Standard clothing sizes (S, M, L)
Extra small / Extra large
XS and XL sizes
Fitting room / Changing room
Where you try on clothes
It fits perfectly
The item is the right size
Too tight / Too loose
The fit is not right
One size smaller / larger
Requesting a different size
You
Excuse me, can I try this on?
Salesperson
Of course. The fitting rooms are at the back. How many items do you have?
You
Just two. Also, do you have this in a smaller size?
Salesperson
Let me check for you. What size are you looking for?
You
A medium, please.
Prices and Payment
Understanding prices and knowing how to pay is crucial:
"How much does this cost?"
The most common way to ask the price.
"Is there a discount for paying cash?"
Some stores offer cash discounts.
"Do you accept credit cards?"
Asking about payment methods.
Cash
Physical money (bills and coins)
Credit card / Debit card
Plastic payment cards
Contactless payment
Tap-to-pay with card or phone
Receipt
Proof of purchase
Tax-free
No tax added (for tourists)
VAT refund
Tax refund for international visitors
Travel Tip
Many countries offer VAT refunds for tourists. Ask stores if they participate in tax-free shopping. You will need to fill out forms and present them at the airport when leaving the country.
Returns and Exchanges
Sometimes you need to return or exchange an item. Here are useful phrases:
"I would like to return this. It does not fit."
Returning an item that is the wrong size.
"Can I exchange this for a different size?"
Swapping for another size of the same item.
"What is your return policy?"
Asking about the rules for returns.
"Do you have the receipt?" - You usually need proof of purchase
"Is this within 30 days?" - Most stores have time limits for returns
"Would you like store credit or a refund?" - Options for returned items
At Markets and Bazaars
Shopping at markets is different from stores. Bargaining may be expected, and the atmosphere is more informal:
"What is your best price?"
Opening a negotiation for a lower price.
"That is a bit expensive. Can you do any better?"
Politely asking for a discount.
"If I buy two, can you give me a discount?"
Asking for a bulk purchase discount.
Cultural Note
Bargaining is common in markets but not appropriate in regular stores with fixed prices. In the UK, US, and most of Western Europe, prices in shops are typically non-negotiable.
Useful Shopping Vocabulary
Sale / Clearance
Items with reduced prices
Buy one get one free
A popular promotion
Out of stock
The item is not available
Window shopping
Looking without buying
Gift wrap
Decorative wrapping for presents
Checkout / Till
Where you pay for items
Completing Your Purchase
Cashier
Did you find everything you were looking for?
You
Yes, thank you. Just these items, please.
Cashier
That will be 47.50. Would you like a bag?
You
Yes, please. I will pay by card.
Cashier
Go ahead and tap or insert when ready. Would you like the receipt?
With these phrases, you are ready to shop anywhere in the English-speaking world. In our next lesson, we will cover public transportation, helping you navigate buses, trains, and subways.