Caps are the currency of the wasteland, and a healthy supply will make your journey much easier. Understanding the bartering system and the economy is crucial for acquiring the best gear.
- High Barter Skill: Directly affects buying and selling prices. A high Barter skill means you pay less and sell for more.
- Charisma: Also influences NPC reactions and can indirectly affect prices.
- Master Trader Perk: Significantly improves your Barter skill.
- Sell to the Right Vendors: Different vendors have different amounts of caps and different items they're interested in. Weapon vendors pay more for weapons, general stores for miscellaneous items.
- Repair Items Before Selling: Damaged items sell for less. Repairing them (if your Repair skill is high enough) can increase their value.
- Loot Everything: Even seemingly worthless items can add up. Empty containers, dead enemies, and hidden stashes often contain valuable junk.
Don't be afraid to haggle! The bartering interface allows you to adjust the offer. Aim for a 'Good' or 'Excellent' deal. Early game, focus on selling excess loot to afford better weapons and armor.