There’s much to love about visiting new and exotic destinations. It’s a feed for the senses, allowing us to experience new sights, sounds, and flavors.
It’s also a terrific opportunity to refresh our wardrobe with items that aren’t only fantastic, but also have a story attached to them. There’s nothing better than wearing a favored piece knowing that you bought it in a little side street on one of your many adventures.
As with all things travel-related, there’s a right and wrong way to shop when overseas. That’s why we thought it’d be a good idea to compile some handy tips that’ll ensure you can shop until you drop, no matter where in the world you happen to be.
Pack Light
You’ll always be able to get your purchases home, but it’ll be more convenient (and cheaper) if you can simply do it yourself. If you know that you’ll be shopping when you reach a destination, then be sure to leave some extra space in your luggage. If you have to kneel on your suitcase to get it shut when you’re packing before departure, then there’s no chance that you’ll be able to fit in extra clothes when you’re packing to return home.
Stay Near The Shopping District
The best shopping districts are located in the major cities — and the major cities are big. If you plan on shopping on multiple days, or even multiple times a day, then you’ll be making your life much easier if you book accommodation near the shopping district. If you’re visiting Bangkok, then that would mean staying in a hotel near Icon Siam; If you’re traveling to London, then staying somewhere near Oxford Street would make sense. It’s tough enough getting around the world’s biggest cities without carrying a mountain of shopping bags!
Look Into Tax-Free Shopping
Want to keep your shopping bill as small as possible? Of course you do. Many countries allow international visitors to deduct the cost of sales tax from their purchase (on the basis that they won’t use the services the tax pays for).
Ask About Home Shipping
Want to buy something, but not sure how you’ll get it home? This usually happens with home furnishings, but it can also happen with clothes if you plan on buying a lot. If that’s what’s stopping you from making a purchase, then speak to the seller. If they’re used to selling to international visitors, then they may have procedures in place for sending the items directly to your home address.
Shop the Specialties
If you’re going to travel halfway around the world, then it makes little sense to buy an item of clothing that you could have bought down the street. Looking to pick up a fresh pair of Nike trainers? Unless they’re significantly cheaper abroad, it’ll be best to just get them when you’re back. Instead, shop for the specialties that the destination you’re visiting is known for. For instance, you’ll find that Istanbul is great for shopping for clothes made of quality fabrics (silk, cotton).
