Quick summary: Brands like Coach, Michael Kors, and Kate Spade can be found in America for close to half the Turkey price. At outlets the gap opens even more. But there are details like customs, shipping, and "diffusion lines." I wrote everything clearly in this guide.
Why Buy Bags From America?
A Coach bag that costs 15,000 TL in Turkey can be found at an American outlet for $120-180 (4,000-6,000 TL). Similar situation for Michael Kors. This price difference is why almost everyone going to America makes a "bag list."
Where does the difference come from: import taxes in Turkey (special consumption tax + VAT), distributor margins, and brand pricing strategy. In America, these brands are in the "accessible luxury" category. In Turkey, they are priced as "luxury."
Price Comparison by Brand
| Brand | US Outlet Price | US Retail Price | Turkey Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coach (medium tote) | $120-180 | $250-350 | 12,000-18,000 TL |
| Michael Kors (crossbody) | $80-150 | $200-300 | 8,000-15,000 TL |
| Kate Spade (satchel) | $100-170 | $250-350 | 10,000-16,000 TL |
| Tory Burch (tote) | $180-250 | $300-450 | 15,000-25,000 TL |
| Marc Jacobs (snapshot) | $150-200 | $300-400 | 12,000-20,000 TL |
Note: Outlet prices change seasonally. Black Friday, Memorial Day, and Labor Day are the best discount periods.
Outlet vs Retail vs Online
Outlet Stores (Cheapest)
The best prices are at outlet malls. But you should know one truth: most of the products sold at outlet stores are "diffusion line" products made specifically for outlets. This means the same bag from the regular store is not being sold at 50% off. A version specifically made cheaper is being sold.
Is this bad? No. The quality is generally still good and the value is high. But saying "I got the $500 bag from the regular store for $150" is not 100% accurate. The bag you bought at the outlet is a model made for the outlet.
How to tell: Coach outlet products have an "F" letter or "Factory" written on the tag. Michael Kors outlet products have a different tag format. Kate Spade outlet products with "Surprise" on the tag are outlet-exclusive items.
Best Outlet Malls
- Woodbury Common Premium Outlets (Central Valley, NY): 1 hour from New York. 250+ stores, almost every brand is there. The best outlet for bags.
- Wrentham Village Premium Outlets (MA): 45 minutes from Boston. Large Coach and MK outlets.
- Desert Hills Premium Outlets (Cabazon, CA): 1.5 hours from Los Angeles. Strong on premium brands.
- Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets (FL): The outlet Turkish tourists visit the most. Every brand available.
- Sawgrass Mills (Fort Lauderdale, FL): Indoor outlet mall, very large. Wide bag selection.
Online Shopping
You can also buy from the brands' own websites. Coach Outlet Online (coachoutlet.com) and Kate Spade Surprise (surprise.katespade.com) regularly run online discounts.
Some models are available on Amazon too, but there is counterfeit risk. Select ones "Sold by Amazon" or "Sold by [brand name]."
Search on Amazon: Michael Kors Bag →
Search on Amazon: Kate Spade Bag →
Customs Rules: Bringing Bags Back
Personal Use Exemption
Turkish customs grants a certain duty-free allowance under "personal use." As of 2026, the per-traveler exemption limit is 430 Euros (at airports). Items exceeding this limit will be subject to customs duty.
Tax Calculation
For the portion exceeding the 430 Euro exemption:
- Customs duty: 18% (general rate)
- VAT: 20%
- Total extra cost: ~40-45%
So for a bag worth 600 Euros: 600 - 430 = 170 Euros is taxable. That means about 70-75 Euros in extra cost.
Warning: Bringing multiple bags increases the risk of being classified as "commercial goods." 1-2 bags can pass as personal use, but trying to bring 5-6 bags can cause problems at customs. Keep your receipts but do not show them at customs unless asked.
Shipping by Cargo
Shipping bags from America to Turkey by cargo is also an option, but there are disadvantages:
- Customs duty will definitely apply: Items arriving by cargo cannot benefit from the exemption
- Shipping cost: $30-80 with DHL/FedEx (depending on weight and size)
- Total cost: After adding tax + shipping, savings can shrink
- Risk: It can get stuck at customs, additional documents may be requested
The most economical method: bring them yourself, carry in your luggage, limit to 1-2 bags.
Practical Tips
- Toss the box: Bag boxes take up a lot of room in your suitcase. The dust bag (cloth pouch) is enough, and it comes inside the box anyway
- Keep your receipt: But do not volunteer to show it at customs. Show it if asked
- Leave the tag on: It proves the product is new. You will need it if you have to return it
- Ask for discount coupons: At outlets, there may be discount coupons at the entrance desk. Ask "Do you have any coupons?"
- Check sales tax: Buying in tax-free states like Oregon, Delaware, New Hampshire gives extra savings
Travel Bag Recommendations
A good travel bag is essential for protecting the bags you bought at the outlet. Luggage organizers also make things easier:
Search on Amazon: Packing Cubes Travel Set →
Conclusion
Buying bags from America is still worth it, especially at outlets and in tax-free states. But to buy at "half price," you need to be at the right place, at the right time, with the right brand. And knowing the customs rules protects you from surprises.
Notice: The customs information in this article is a general guide. Customs regulations can change. Check the Ministry of Trade website for current information. Some Amazon links in this article are affiliate links. Your price doesn't change. I only recommend products I actually use or have personally tested.
