Traditional Textiles & Batik: North Sumatra's silk and cotton weavings showcase regional patterns. Pasar Besar offers authentic selections with negotiable prices. Medan's Chinese district sells quality fabrics. Modern malls stock curated selections with fixed pricing and quality guarantees. Expect 20-40% markups at tourist shops versus traditional markets.
Handicrafts & Souvenirs: Carved wooden items, traditional masks, and beadwork represent local artisanship. Specialty shops in Tjong A Fie Mansion and heritage quarter stock premium selections. Street vendors offer budget options with variable quality. Bargaining expected and successful in traditional markets (30-50% reductions typical).
Local Spices & Food Products: Authentic North Sumatran spices, curry pastes, and specialty sauces available at markets. Pasar Besar's spice section offers dried chilies, turmeric, and local blends packaged for travel. Medan chocolate and local coffee beans serve as lightweight souvenirs.
Tea & Rubber Products: High-quality tea from regional plantations available at visitor centers and markets. Rubber wood crafted goods including utensils and decorative items make unique souvenirs. Berastagi fruit market offers fresh tropical fruits and preserves.
Shopping Etiquette: Bargaining expected and appreciated in traditional markets; polite negotiation brings 30-50% discounts. Fixed pricing applies in malls, restaurants, and tourist shops. Large purchases in markets may bring larger discounts. Friendly haggling seen as entertainment, not offense. Respect vendor dignity even if declining offers.
Payment Methods: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) essential for markets and street vendors; most accept nothing else. Modern malls accept credit cards with surcharge (2-3%). ATMs widely available in city center but unreliable in remote areas. Currency exchange better at banks than airports; bring USD or EUR for exchange.