binoculars

[jasnake65]

Have a friend going over to Germany and was wondering if its a good deal to purchase binoculars or anything else and bring it back. Thinking about some beer stiens also. Has anyone purchased anyhting over there and brought it back? Was the price good/bad?

[BackStrap]

I have been to Europe twice now and the last time I went I was in the market for a good knife. I ended up buying a Klotzli folder that sells for around $120 in the US. I made the purchase in Switzerland (where the knife is produced) for onlt $65. I also purchased multiple Opinel knives for $4-$5 each which is cheap.

If you know what you're looking for and it is a local product, yes, there is a potential for a good deal.

[jmoser]

If you know exactly what you want and exactly what you will pay here then you may find a bargain, especially on something that is not imported in large quantities.

My hint is to use your credit card as you will get the best exchange rate possible, much better than if you exchange your hard currency.

The dollar has not been doing well vs. the Euro the past couple years so foreign goods have been hurt. In some cases domestic US purchases may be cheaper if the manufacturer has hedged the exchange rate and is able to keep prices in dollars lower than the prevailing exchange rate.

Do your homework first.

[jml2]

I thought the same thing when I was in Germany several years ago. I was going to buy some Zeiss binocs but found the prices to be similar to hear in the States--maybe I wasn't looking in the right places.

I would just do my homework and know what a good price is--if you find a good deal, go for it.

Good luck.

[Alpha Male]

As mentioned, the exchange rate will work against you. Fine cutlery is about the only thing I can think of off the top of my head where you may make out by purchasing over there.

Unless you bring cartons of Marlboros and cases Levi's to trade...

They don't haggle nearly as much in Germany as they do in other parts of Europe.

[Swamp Monster]

Becarefull with the Bino's, you will not get a USA warranty with them so you'll be forced to ship them overseas if there is ever a problem...and expect the turn around to be months, not days or weeks. And really the deals, while some probably exist, are probably not all that great. I have never been there, so I don't have any first hand experience, but like you I looked into it as well when a friend was headed to Europe for business. Thought maybe I could pick up some Swarovski's or Zeiss etc for a respectable price.