Traveling involves more than simply seeing new places since you’ll also find deals you can’t get at home! Usually, it’s because these products are made locally or the government keeps prices low. There are also tax perks—you’ll save a lot. Here are twelve products that cost less overseas and why they’re such good deals. If you’re heading abroad, you might want to leave some room in your suitcase.
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Prescription Medications in Canada
In Canada, prescription meds are often a lot cheaper than in the U.S. because of government regulations. For example, drugs like insulin & EpiPens cost up to 80% less and a vial of insulin that runs you $300 in the U.S. might only be around $30 in Canada. That’s a huge difference! Many Americans pick up their prescriptions while visiting our northern neighbor.
Designer Handbags in Italy
If you’re in Italy, luxury handbags from brands like Gucci and Prada are nowhere as expensive as they are in America. These fashion houses are based in Italy—so you skip the import taxes & extra fees tacked on in the U.S. Plus, you can get a VAT refund of up to 12% on your purchase. The selection is often bigger too, featuring exclusive styles you can’t find elsewhere.
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Electronics in Japan
You won’t find better electronics outside of Japan and both cameras & gaming consoles are often cheaper there. For example, brands like Sony and Nintendo sell their products at lower prices domestically. You can enjoy tax-free shopping in certain stores. That’s another 10% off on your purchase! If that wasn’t good enough, the yen-dollar exchange rate makes deals even sweeter for American shoppers.
Spices in India
In India, spices like saffron and cardamom are much more affordable since they’re grown locally. As such, you don’t have to pay for middlemen or import fees that drive up the prices in America. The spices are also fresher in India. People sell them rather soon after they’re harvested! So if you love cooking, stocking up on spices in India will save you quite a bit of money.
Gold Jewelry in India
Speaking of India, gold jewelry is often cheaper there, too, since high demand & local artisans keep prices competitive. You’ll get some stunning designs made with high-purity gold—and at prices lower than in the U.S. A lot of the gold in places like Mumbai’s Zaveri Bazaar is usually 22 karats. That’s purer than the 14 or 18-karat gold you’re used to back home!
Watches in Switzerland
Switzerland is famous for watches—and for a good reason. Buying one there saves you some cash because brands like Rolex & Omega sell their timepieces at lower prices than in the U.S. You’re buying straight from the source there! You can also get a VAT refund that’s up to 7.7% of what you paid, with such a huge selection of luxury watches to choose from.
Chocolate in Belgium
Anyone looking to buy some amazing chocolates should go to Belgium because they’re cheaper when you buy them locally. There’s no import markup for brands like Neuhaus, Godiva & Leonidas. Plus, there are so many small artisanal shops for you to check out. You’ll get some unique flavors at good prices, with many chocolates often made the same day!
Whisky in Scotland
In Scotland, Scotch whisky doesn’t cost as much as it does in the USA since you can buy directly from distilleries or local shops. As such, you’ll avoid the import duties & taxes that hike up prices back home. Some distilleries have exclusive bottles you can only get there. There’s no place greater for whisky.
Leather Goods in Argentina
Argentina’s a great place to find high-quality leather products at better prices & it’s mostly because the country has a big cattle industry. Here, you’ll find jackets, bags, belts & shoes with excellent craftsmanship in Buenos Aires’ Murillo Street. You’ll also get designs that simply don’t exist back home.
Silk Products in China
Since China is where silk first came from, it makes sense that silk products are cheaper there. In cities like Suzhou and Hangzhou, you can buy high-quality silk scarves & clothing at lower prices. You might even be able to customize items to your taste! As such, going to China to bring home some silk may be worth it for the savings and a little luxury.
Coffee in Colombia
Over in Colombia, you’ll get pure coffee beans straight from plantations or local markets. Prices are lower because there’s no export cost added. For example, a pound of premium coffee might cost $5-$7—compared to $15-$20 back in the U.S. Best of all, the coffee beans are freshly roasted so it tastes even better!
Footwear in Vietnam
If you’re looking for brands like Nike and Adidas, you might want to go to Vietnam because buying footwear there is a lot cheaper. You’re closer to where they’re made! Outlet stores and local markets sell authentic products at lower prices, with discounts of 30-50% compared to American prices. Some shops even have sample models or extra stock that never made it here.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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