Tourist discount Aussies don’t know about

Words: Shireen Khalil

The best thing about shopping in Europe, is just that, shopping in Europe. Why? because most of what’s on offer isn’t yet available in Australia.

And to help sweeten the experience, Aussies can get money back on tax for shopping – but it comes with “loops and holes”. Sydney woman and finance influencer Queenie Tan has revealed how you can get 10 to 20 per cent off your shopping in Europe through the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS).

Source: investwithqueenie via Tik Tok

Angus Kidman, travel expert at Finder, told news.com.au the refund scheme potentially lets you claim back GST on expensive items, but there are a lot of hoops to jump through. “Consumers are hit with VAT (value added tax) or GST in many countries, and these tend to be very high in Europe.”

Mr Kidman said the rate typically ranges from five to 25 per cent , depending on the country. “As a visitor to the EU who is returning home, you may be eligible to buy goods free of VAT in certain shops.”

You’ll have to pay the full, tax-inclusive price for the goods in the shop. Then you’ll get the VAT refunded on departure. “There isn’t one standard procedure for the entire European Union. Generally you’ll need to fill out some paperwork, then bring your receipts / forms to a VAT office at the airport or border crossing and finally show the item at the customs office.”

NewsBite

Tourist discount Aussies don’t know about

More stories

More stories

Swipe up for more