Tips Before Hitting Your Way To The Ukay Ukay

Hi! This is my first post and right now I am going to give you some tips before hitting on the "UKAY - UKAY"

Did you know where does the word ukay-ukay originate? Actually, it's from the Ilokano's term "ukay" which means "to dig". Yes! You're right on what you've read. That's what you are really going to do. Dig on the great piles of used clothing, bags, shoes, etc. to find great buys.

Another term for ukay-ukay is "wagwagan" which means " to dust off". Again, yes you're not wrong on what you're reading now because you are going to do some "wagwagan" there in the place where there is ukay-ukay.
Here are my tips that you'll actually need before doing some ukay-ukay:

1. Ask for the local residents on where can you possibly find ukay-ukay. Usually, ukay - ukay stalls are located in the market place in almost everywhere in the Philippines.

2. Make sure you change your big bills to a smaller denomination. It's better to bring a pad of 20 peso bill than a hundred peso bill since the cost of the items found there are usually cheaper in which it range from 5 pesos to 500 pesos (If you'll get lucky).

3. Of course, dress simply when going to these places since it's usually a market place not a party venue. Make sure also to wear flats because there'll be a long time standing and walking to do to catch up some very good bargains. Don't bring any valuable things with you too like jewelries and cellphones because the market place in the Philippines is not a real good time to do some show off of your NOKIA N95 , IPod and Cartier or you'll might get robbed or being snatched.

4. Bring with you an extra big cellophane bag for your hands not to get loaded handling lots of stuffs.

5. Watch for sale signs marked " 2 for 20", " 5 for 100" or any hanging ads for just "P10". That's where you'll find the real steals. Also, never be shy to put up a bargain with the vendor.

6. Another thing, No ENGLISH please. Speak natively since the vendor will find it hard to understand you and you'll sound stupid too if you'll do that there. You'll be called as "OA" (short for OVER-ACTING).

7. Be nice to the vendors while asking for a better price.

8. Most of all, one last tip, try to put up an act. Example, showing that you like an item but find the price too high, learn to put on a nonchalant face for those tougher bargains. If you still find the price too high then you can walk away ( Good if the vendor will call you back and agree on your desired price).


Well, that's all the nicest tips I can give and hope you'll do well on your trip to the Ukay-ukay!