no FX fee credit cards

Purchasing a handbag in a foreign currency typically leads to a currency conversion charge of 2-3% by your bank/credit card provider. As such, make sure to use a no foreign exchange fee credit card (if possible) to avoid this charge. 

vat/gst refunds

VAT (Value-added Tax)/GST (Goods and Services Tax) are particularly high in Europe, ranging between 15-25%. If you are a visitor to the EU, you are likely to be able to claim back the VAT which would be a huge saving! Similar refund options are provided in many other countries around the world.  Inquire with the retail store directly on the process. Most will use the services of Global Blue or a similar tax refund company.

USA / Canada sales taxes

Be aware of retail prices in the USA and Canada. In these countries, sales tax is added to the advertised handbag price (varies by province/state/region e.g., 8.875% in New York City). This in contrast to most other countries where taxes are already included in advertised retail prices.

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