Shopping for Christmas gifts much cheaper in the US

Fri, 18 Nov 2011
 
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Britons looking for bargain deals on their Christmas shopping can save money by heading to America, according to new research.

A survey of the average price of dozens of popular festive season gifts, carried out by the Post Office, found that prices in New York and Boston are up to 62 per cent cheaper than in London .

The biggest savings can be made on clothing, sunglasses and toys. The study revealed that the average cost of Ray Ban "Aviator" sunglasses is £188 in London, but less than £100 in the US, while a pair of UGG boots can be purchased for £96 in Boston and £105 in New York, compared to £175 in London .

Shoppers can also save around 50 per cent on a Ralph Lauren long-sleeved jumper, Levi's 501 Original jeans and Elizabeth Arden '8 Hour Cream' by shopping in US department stores.

The Nerf Vortex Blaster, Let’s Rock Elmo and Star Wars Ultimate FX Lightsaber - toys included in this year's Toy Retailers Association "Dream Dozen" Christmas wish list – were found to be between 37 and 53 per cent less expensive in Boston and New York, while the price of an Apple iPod Nano was 22 per cent cheaper Stateside.

Sarah Munro, head of travel money at the Post Office, said: " When it comes to a battle for the best bargains, Boston wins out because sales tax is lower than in New York and clothing that costs under $175 (£113) is exempt."

"What’s more, Boston package prices are cheaper than New York and the city has shops to match the Big Apple."

However, she added that that Britons should still "find out what items cost in Britain before leaving and compare with the US price".