We all love a good designer handbag. But let’s be honest, they can be pretty pricey. If you’re looking to score a designer bag at a cheaper price, you might be wondering if heading to Europe is the way to go.
So, are designer handbags cheaper in Europe? The answer is: sometimes. While some brands are cheaper in Europe, others are actually more expensive.
The final price also depends on the specific style you’re looking for and what European city you are shopping in.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular designer handbags, and how their prices compare on both sides of the Atlantic.
Louis Vuitton
When it comes to Louis Vuitton, you’ll find that several of the brand’s bags are more expensive in the US than in Europe.
For example, the Louis Vuitton Capucines cost $6,600 in the United States but 4500 euros/$5,078 in Europe. The Louis Vuitton Neverfull also costs $100 more in the United States than it does in Europe.
The Artsy MM Emprieinte bag from the brand has a whopping price difference on both sides of the ocean. The bag goes for $3,700 + tax in the United States but is $1000 less in Europe.
So if you’re looking to buy a Louis Vuitton bag, Europe is a better bet. You will especially save on this brand if you purchase your items in Paris.
Chanel
When it comes to Chanel, you’ll find that the prices are cheaper in Europe.
The Chanel Classic Flap bag, for example, retails for $6,500 in the United States and €4,900 in Europe, which comes out to about $5,500.
The Chanel Boy bag will set you back $4,700 in the United States and €3,900 in Europe, which comes to about $4,200.
The Chanel Gabrielle Hobo bag is $3,400 in the United States and €2,900 in Europe, which comes out to around $3,000.
Givenchy
This well known French brand is cheaper in France compared to other places. For example, the Givenchy Antigona bag costs $2,145 in the United States but €1,690 in Europe.
The Givenchy Nightingale bag is also cheaper in Europe, selling for $2,290 in the United States and €1,790 in Europe.
Dolce and Gabbana
If you’re looking to buy a Dolce and Gabbana bag, you’ll find that they are cheaper in Europe than in the United States.
The Dolce and Gabbana Miss Sicily bag, for example, costs $2,495 in the United States and €1,790 in Europe.
The Dolce and Gabbana Sicily bag is also cheaper in Europe, selling for $2,995 in the United States and €1,990 in Europe.
Burberry
If you are a fan of the classic and well-cut designs of Burberry, take advantage of a shopping spree while in London.
You can save as much as 40% off regular store prices when you venture to outlets such as Burberry Factory Shop and Bicester Village.
Gucci
Do you have plans to go to Italy soon? Well, if you are a fan of Gucci, check out the Mall in Tuscany. You may get as much as 50% off regular prices on bags, shoes and other items.
Prada
Like other local brands, Prada is also cheaper in Italy. In Italy the prices are slashed by as much as 40% in outlet malls. Prada bags in Italy are cheaper than in any other country – not just the United States.
Some of the best places to find Prada outlets include space in Florence, Levanella and Milan.
Fendi
If you want to stay local, check out the Fendi store in Rome. You may find bags selling at around 30% to 40% off.
Why Are These Bags Cheaper in Europe?
So why are these bags cheaper in Europe? It all has to do with taxes and duties.
When a designer bag is shipped from Europe to the United States, it is subject to a number of import taxes and duties, which increase the final price.
The same is not true when you purchase a designer bag in Europe and bring it back with you. You will not have to pay any taxes or duties on the bag, which means you will save money.
There is a fee called VAT (Value Added Tax) that is charged on all luxury goods in Europe. The VAT is typically around 20%.
However, if you are a tourist, you can claim a refund on the VAT. To do this, you will need to present your passport and purchase receipts at the airport before you leave.
Things To Consider When Shopping in Europe
There are a few things to keep in mind before you go on a designer bag shopping spree in Europe.
Exchange Rate
Don’t forget about the exchange rate as it can fluctuate. This means the prices of designer bags in Europe could go up or down anytime compared to bags in America.
If the exchange rate is favorable, you may be able to save even more money on your purchase. Are you buying something in mainland Europe or the United Kingdom?
The Pound vs the Euro vs the Dollar is always changing. Stay aware of the most recent exchange rates before you make your purchase, in hopes of getting a deal.
Duty Free Concerns
When you go shopping in another country, you will need to declare items past a certain point.
For example, if you are flying from the United States to Europe, you can bring up to $800 worth of items duty-free.
However, if you bring more than that, you will need to declare the items and pay duty on them.
The same is true when you are bringing items back to the United States from Europe.
You are allowed to bring up to $800 worth of items duty-free. If you have more than that, you will need to declare the items and pay duty on them.
To avoid this, only buy what you can afford to declare.
