What is the charge to bring a designer bag through customs?

Question

At some point next year, I am going to be going to New York on holiday with my mum. As a treat for graduating, she has agreed to give me half the money for a Balenciaga handbag. It comes to around $1300 dollars for the bag (about £650). However I was wondering if I would incur any charges when returning to England. I have heard that you can bring up to £145 worth of goods in, and the bag is obviously over. How much would I be charged for the bag?

I have also heard you can say that it is a gift for someone and that would be allowed. Would that prevent the charges?

I've not travelled much so I really don't know about customs. Thanks.

Answer 1

you are allowed to bring a certain amount of money in gifts and goods.

that said, they don't check most people. i wouldn't even bother declaring the bag - just put it in your suitcase or bring it on board with you and say you've always had it. there's no need to pay customs on a bag. i've brought electronic items overseas before as gifts and planned on saying they were my own.. never asked any questions, though.