How To Save Big When Shopping Abroad

Shopping and traveling have always made a fantastic combination. Some people will save up all year so they can spend their hard earned money while shopping in the fashion capitals of the world. In Paris, New York and London you can find a whole host of designer and department stores full of clothing, shoes and accessories. Boutiques and markets are also fabulous sources, full of exotic treats for you to bring home with you. Shopping abroad may sound daunting for a first timer and can cost you more than you bargained for. So here are some shopping tips to help save you money and get the items you desire.

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Know what size you are

Women’s sizing varies from continent to continent. So make sure you know what size you are in the country you are in. For instance, if you know you are traveling in France, you need to know your European shoe and clothing size. This will make it easier to find clothing and footwear that fits you. Otherwise, you may find that you have spent a lot of money on items that don’t fit or look right on your body. It can be difficult to return items abroad as different countries have different return and exchange policies. Small boutiques and markets are unlikely to offer your money back so keep this in mind. Always try before you buy too, as the cut and sizing may be smaller or larger than you are used to.

Save space in your luggage

Whether you’re traveling for a weekend or going on a month long tour, you will always need to ensure you have sufficient space in your luggage. Lack of planning could mean you are unable to transport the items you have bought back home with you. Or it could mean you have to pay expensive fines at the airport or pay for them to be sent back via postage or courier service. If you know you are going to be shopping, always plan ahead and allow plenty of extra room in your suitcase or bags. It may be worth buying a larger suitcase or packing an additional collapsible bag that you can use to hold the extra items you have bought. This may sound drastic but it will save you money on customs charges, airport fines and shipping fees. Alternatively, you could take old clothes and shoes in your luggage, that you can donate or get rid of to make space for your newer items when you leave.

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Research the customs

In some foreign countries, they encourage haggling. This may sound terrifying if you have never done it before but it could actually save you a great deal of money. Check that haggling is appropriate in the country you are visiting before you go shopping. Otherwise, you may find yourself feeling incredibly embarrassed when you go to pay. Markets and bazaars are often the best places to haggle the price of an item, whereas larger, well-known brands will have set prices. When bargaining with a vendor, never feel pressured into paying more than you want to.

With these tips, you can add some American or European flare to your wardrobe and bring some fabulous souvenirs home. All without spending a fortune.