Summer is here and it is often the best time to travel. Some travelers get to know a place through its museums and galleries, others through its scenic landscapes or local cuisine. But for some globetrotters who love to shop, there is no better way to experience a place than by haggling with merchants in a bazaar, browsing the handcrafted wares of local artisans or checking out designer goods in posh boutiques in town.
We have all been there – a not so great day can be turned around when we buy something that makes us feel a little better. Whether it is a handbag that you get a great deal on or a dress that makes you feel beautiful, retail therapy has been known for instantly turning our mood around and making the day just a tad brighter. We all have made comfort buys that relieve stress, and put a smile on our face. Shopping, for some people, has become one of the most enjoyable and fun therapy.
Shopping abroad can be exciting, rewarding and definitely a stress-reliever. You know how you like to shop for yourself, your friends and family when you travel but you might not like so much hauling all that stuff back home on the plane and through customs on the other end.
How To Ship Your Purchases Home
Seasoned shoppers know how to leave plenty of room in their suitcases for souvenirs or even pack an additional bag to fit the extras. Duffel bags are a good idea to serve as your extra bag because they fold easily and do not take up much space. However their flimsiness makes them appropriate only for dirty clothes and other unbreakable items. Definitely not suitable for fragile items like porcelain vase or crockery items.
Occasionally you will set your eyes on some purchases that are too large, heavy or fragile to carry home yourself. In these cases, you will need to decide between having the store ship the item for you, which is not always an option especially when you buy from smaller merchants and shipping it yourself.
Do remember to buy insurance for the item if you have the merchant taking care of the shipping. Pay for the item using credit card and get itemized receipt specifying exactly what you purchased and how it will be shipped.
If you are going to do the shipping yourself, pack the item carefully and label the box with the contents of the package and the monetary value of those contents. You can enlist the help of your hotel to mail your purchase for you. Alternatively, you can visit the local post office or seek out the nearest shipping service companies. You are still responsible for paying the duties and taxes that come with those items.
To simplify your travel while indulging your impulse to get wonderful things while you are traveling, you can check out international shipping options to ship your items to your home. If you have not done any research on international shopping, you may not know of the things mentioned above that will undoubtedly assist you with your travels abroad. It is important to keep these tips in mind next time you do so because they can save you time, money and the unnecessary hassle of being stopped too long at customs. You can never be too prepared when it comes to international shopping.
