What to Buy in The USA?

Sir Flabo on 10/06/2022 - 15:33
Last edited 10/06/2022 - 17:13 by 1 other user

Hello OzLegends,

I remember heading to the USA as a younger lad and being so keen to have access to more brands/items and usually for much cheaper prices. Globalisation seems to have been pretty effective at bringing better access and prices to AUS. So is there still anything that you consider a better buy in the USA? E.g. last time I was there I snagged some Yeti goods before they were sold in AUS (and much cheaper).

Pretty vague topic but I always seem to kick myself after these trips for not maximising the opportunity.

Thanks in advance!

Edit: Haha I love the comment section

Travel North America United States

Comments

  • BewareOfThe Dog on 10/06/2022 - 15:45
    +47

    Lettuce?
    Fuel?
    ;)

    • Tleyx on 13/06/2022 - 19:50
      +2

      Can't carry fuel on plane.

      Lettuce would get taken by border force and end you up on tv for us to laugh at you

      • BewareOfThe Dog on 13/06/2022 - 21:36
        -2

        Damn, I didn't know Tesla made planes now?

      • BewareOfThe Dog on 13/06/2022 - 21:38

        Hey, I'm only using Lettuce to disguise the asics shoes in bringing back for my bros.

    • froberts2 on 14/06/2022 - 10:31

      Fuel is more expensive in California than it is in Australia, so not a great suggestion. Not sure about the price of lettuce.

      • BewareOfThe Dog on 14/06/2022 - 10:38

        I saw that it was $6.40 US per Gallon recently, which would still be slightly cheaper?

        • BewareOfThe Dog on 14/06/2022 - 10:40

          OP is going to Hawaii. which is $5.50 per Gallon. :)

        • gromit on 14/06/2022 - 16:54

          US gallon is only ~3.7l, So that is $9.20 AUD a Gallon, or $2.48 a litre Aud. So definitely more expensive.

        • Cheapsize on 14/06/2022 - 23:50

          A gallon is just under 4 litres so our petrol is more expensive. They are paying about $1.60 a litre.

  • Uncle Roger on 10/06/2022 - 15:46
    +3

    Gushers

    • afoveht on 10/06/2022 - 17:37

      Big walmart packs of.

    • haggertm on 11/06/2022 - 11:18
      +1

      Dr Pepper

      • WhyAmICommenting on 12/06/2022 - 10:01

        I could use some medicine right now - sick as a dog.

  • isthatallyougot on 10/06/2022 - 15:47
    +40

    MAGA hat , one that is made in China though

  • 7ekn00 on 10/06/2022 - 15:48
    +15

    Wait till you see it now, you will be so disappointed in comparison to previous trip :/

    • striker5950 on 11/06/2022 - 10:39
      +9

      be sure to visit the 8th wonder of the world skidrow in LA

  • offthetap on 10/06/2022 - 15:53
    +20

    AK47s

    • Almost Banned on 10/06/2022 - 16:51
      +33

      AR-15?

      • WT on 11/06/2022 - 09:37
        +3

        both

    • Brianqpr on 12/06/2022 - 12:18
      +14

      You have to be aged at least 10 though.

  • [Deactivated] on 10/06/2022 - 16:05

    forget electronics, unless you can find an equivalent cable with an AU plug (if it's even detachable).

    • dearears on 11/06/2022 - 06:36
      +4

      Voltage is a real phenonmenon …

      • [Deactivated] on 11/06/2022 - 10:51
        +13

        Some electronics are designed for both voltages

        • tikei on 11/06/2022 - 17:08
          -2

          Just get a plug adaptor for $2

          • DrScavenger on 11/06/2022 - 21:01
            +9

            @tikei: No that's not enough if voltage is incompatible

            • Bren20 on 11/06/2022 - 23:25
              +1

              @DrScavenger: Honestly I don't know what you'd be buying that wouldn't accept both voltages

              • John Kimble on 12/06/2022 - 12:25
                +2

                @Bren20: Well, I bought some Wahl hair clippers from Walmart for $20 that sell for over $100 here, didn't think about voltages, brought it back here plugged it in and it went bananas! 🤦‍♂️

              • Pootie Tang on 14/06/2022 - 21:48
                +1

                @Bren20: Sega Dreamcast

                • Cheapsize on 14/06/2022 - 23:53

                  @Pootie Tang: Lol yep.. NTSC model is 110v found that out the hard way. They are so easy to convert to 240v though.

                  • Pootie Tang on 15/06/2022 - 00:58

                    @Cheapsize: Yeah, I paid $150 for a transformer when it was released. What's the easy way now?

                    • Cheapsize on 15/06/2022 - 11:55

                      @Pootie Tang: Replacement power supply recommend dream psu. you open up the Dreamcast, unplug the power supply. Replace with dream psu. Plug in laptop style power brick (sold separately) Its a straight swap. Mod costs under 100 give or take.
                      Dream psu is available on AliExpress, eBay etc. Another similar solution is this local company who have their own solution https://www.retrosales.com.au/products/accessory-power-suppl…

                      • Pootie Tang on 15/06/2022 - 12:12

                        @Cheapsize: Damm, that's crazy. In 2000 I bought the step up TF and it's only $70 less to do it now. Boooooo. Thanks for the insight.

                      • Pootie Tang on 15/06/2022 - 12:18

                        @Cheapsize: https://wallcann.com.au/100w-step-down-transformer/?___store…

                        Apparently this works. I've got a Dreamcast collecting dust so sounds like this will get it in action. Can't wait to play all the new releases 🥹

                        • Cheapsize on 15/06/2022 - 17:11

                          @Pootie Tang: Um yeah don't bother with the transformer, the mod is 100 times better and it takes 5 minutes to install with video instructions. It makes the Dreamcast very resellable as it becomes 110v and 240v.
                          The transformer is bulky and can potentially be dangerous if used for huge gaming sessions given the heat and potential fan noise. I've done two mods so far and it's literally unplug the modem, lift the case, unplug the power supply. Replace with new power supply. Rescrew the case and plug the modem back in. Done.

            • R4 on 14/06/2022 - 10:06

              @DrScavenger: That's no longer an issue with a lot of electronic equipment now

              • Zephyrus on 14/06/2022 - 12:52

                @R4: It's an issue with a lot of high power kitchen appliances, things that have AC motors would be the most obvious one.

                Stand mixers and blenders are the most obvious things I can think of that won't work.

                • R4 on 14/06/2022 - 13:55

                  @Zephyrus: Definitely. With small appliances, you have to be careful. Most electronics are okay now though. Saying that, I bought a Yamaha AV receiver a few years ago from the US (less than half Aussie price) and it's 120V only. I had to buy a step down transformer to power it.

    • Bedgrub on 14/06/2022 - 10:24
      +1

      Most small consumer electronics like laptops chargers and USB adaptors - and even stereos and TVs - support 100-220v as it just makes more more sense to make one power circuit for a global market. It's often just a case of using a local IEC cable for your region.

      High power devices rarely support multiple voltages. I doubt OP will be purchasing white goods and kitchen appliances, but if you'll be disappointed if you're eyeing off a cheap Dyson hair dryer in Walmart.

      So, TL;DR:

      • Check the product's charger or label for '110-220v'.

      • If it has a C5, C7 or C13 cable then it probably offers both voltages.

      • Apple chargers and cables all (I think?) support both voltages - you can buy slide-in connectors for your region on Ebay or Amazon.

      • This is the internet - don't take my advice, I am not an electrician. I have bought many products from overseas on the basis of the three points above.

      • froberts2 on 14/06/2022 - 10:32

        The vast majority of TVs in the US are 110 volt only. Plus the frequencies are different, so OTA normally won't work (some will allow you to change it, most wont)

        • Bedgrub on 14/06/2022 - 12:55

          Agreed, TV's should have been put in the 'some' category rather than 'most', but I don't think OP is going to be packing a TV in their luggage. Many retailers put 110v on the stickers, but are actually dual voltage.

          To clarify 'many' big brand sellers' TVs are multisystem, which by definition will support both PAL (50hz) and NTSC (60hz), which are informed by the mains AC in the respective country. Globally, the 220/240@50hz and 110/115/120@60hz schemas don't really deviate too much for consumer electronics, with the exception of some Caribbean nations and Libya (because reasons I'm assuming).

  • Mr Haj on 10/06/2022 - 16:06
    +10

    Alcohol. I remember it was about a third of the price when I was there. Admittedly that was in 2012/13 when our exchange rate was sky high.

    • 87percent on 10/06/2022 - 16:37
      +5

      And unless you drink it there, you can’t bring that much back to make it worthwhile

      • Mr Haj on 10/06/2022 - 16:43
        +2

        No but you could have a really great time

      • Stewardo on 11/06/2022 - 14:39
        +1

        3x750ml
        Tequila

      • pHyR3 on 14/06/2022 - 11:05

        why not? can bring back 76 shots of vodka, seems like it'd last me a solid amount of time

      • R4 on 14/06/2022 - 13:57

        Bring it back as part of your 2.25l duty free allowance

    • hogehoge51 on 11/06/2022 - 09:13
      +2

      Craft beer. Much Cheaper than generic beer here, let alone what they ask for craft beer here. (That was 2016, before the craft beer boom here, but as they already had a big craft beer industry then I doubt the prices have gone up)

      • serpserpserp on 11/06/2022 - 19:40

        Much Cheaper than generic beer here

        It is just different brands. You can get crappy "craft" beer here too and its cheap. Our generic beer is also pretty cheap at their regularly discounted prices. It is just stuff from Canada, Mexico, South America etc. that is cheaper than in Australia. Like the last time I went I drank Tecate 6 packs a lot because it was super cheap over there, but imported here it is still only $3.50 a can (or under $3 a can for a 6 pack not on sale). Expensive compared to America, but not actually that expensive.

        • afoveht on 11/06/2022 - 20:13
          +3

          Not really. Can find a 6pack at servos and 7-11s over there for $5. Much much cheaper.

          • Hangryuman on 14/06/2022 - 13:57

            @afoveht: 'find a 6pack at servos and 7-11s over there for $5'

            yeah but it's probably $#it beer

            like the cheap German beer you can buy at Lidl in the UK - disgusting stuff.

    • WT on 11/06/2022 - 09:38

      bacardi was about $12 in 17

  • Trying2SaveABuck on 10/06/2022 - 16:14
    +10

    guns and ammo

    • Vote for Pedro on 11/06/2022 - 11:39
      +3

      Guuuurrrrrnsss to be accurate

      • Hangryuman on 14/06/2022 - 13:59
        -1

        and if you're not so accurate - semi-automatic assault rifles with dum-dum bullets

        where they get to identify the child by the colour of their shoes …

        like fancy cars, you can guess the size of the manhood by the size of their weapon of choice

        (inverse relationship, etc.)

  • nekro on 10/06/2022 - 16:34
    +4

    Shoes

  • dtc on 10/06/2022 - 16:35
    +10

    You can save about 15% on a lot of sporting gear eg fishing reels. Might be worth it if you are buying a Stella or Saltinga I guess. Maybe an expensive driver or putter. Nike alphafly shoes. But the savings are not huge and often you can wait around for a sale in Australia and its just as cheap.

    One thing the US does have is better quality outdoor gear at cheaper prices, driven by stores like Cabela. Its not top of the line stuff, but its a step above our macpac or kathmandu or BCF for much the same pricing and a much greater variety.

    • Sir Flabo on 10/06/2022 - 17:03
      +1

      Awesome, cheers!

  • Kenvin on 10/06/2022 - 16:38
    +4

    High End Bourbon, Cigars that's about it…….

    • Vote for Pedro on 11/06/2022 - 11:40

      Dont forget the import restrictions on tobacco.

      • serpserpserp on 11/06/2022 - 19:35

        Was going to ask what the restrictions on cigars might be.

        • Vote for Pedro on 11/06/2022 - 21:03
          +2

          ” As a traveller, you can bring tobacco products with you into Australia if you are aged 18 years or older.

          You do not need a permit to bring in tobacco products into Australia as a traveller.

          You are allowed to bring in duty-free:

          -one unopen packet of up to 25 cigarettes or 25 grams of other tobacco products; and
          -one open packet of cigarettes.

          If you bring in tobacco you must:

          -declare any tobacco you have with you above the duty free allowance
          -pay all relevant duty and taxes that apply on arrival into Australia.

          Source: https://www.abf.gov.au/importing-exporting-and-manufacturing…

  • websterp on 10/06/2022 - 16:59

    Couple of AR-15s

  • Caped Baldy on 10/06/2022 - 17:09
    +23

    Diabeetus

    • c64 on 10/06/2022 - 17:19
      +21

      i'm pretty sure that is complimentary during your visit

    • Dreamcast on 12/06/2022 - 18:02

      Is that you Cletus?

  • c64 on 10/06/2022 - 17:21
    +3

    make sure to wear a gold chain, gold watch and lots of other bling when you are out and about on the streets

  • Ocker on 10/06/2022 - 18:17
    +5

    Weed

    • dickiee on 12/06/2022 - 09:17
      +1

      Mix gummy bears in a bigger pack of regular gummy bears I'm sure you would be fine

    • FirstWizard on 12/06/2022 - 15:40

      Ones that come in the form of e-cigarettes, odourless, and has no markings on the outside ;)
      One puff has equivalent THC you get from smoking a full joint.

  • Ryk on 10/06/2022 - 18:19

    Cheeseburgers

  • shaybisc on 10/06/2022 - 18:47
    +14

    Fentanyl

    • buckerooni on 12/06/2022 - 20:46

      word! also word on the street is Benzo Dope is the new hotness, bring back a buttload!

  • Sweet3st on 10/06/2022 - 18:47
    -1

    There are some great Made in USA clothing labels and boots/shoes eg Filson Really good quality but pricey.

    • Ocker on 10/06/2022 - 19:28
      +5

      Sadly, as is the case in Australia, a lot of the great quality USA brands are now made in lower cost foreign countries.
      I love Timberland boat shoes, and have bought them for the past 30 years. Now they are made in the Dominican Republic and are rubbish.
      Make sure you check the labels well.

      • shutuptakemymoney101 on 11/06/2022 - 20:00
        +2

        I bought a pair in the Dominican Republic made in the USA, really good quality.

    • prashmohan on 12/06/2022 - 11:35

      This. Brooks Brothers makes excellent formal clothing. I like Duluth Trading for high quality informal clothes (if you are ok with the tradesmen look). Red wing and wolverine make great boots.

  • capslock on 10/06/2022 - 19:05
    +4

    Branded clothes

  • nfr on 10/06/2022 - 19:26
    +1

    Ugg boots

  • djones145 on 10/06/2022 - 19:48
    +22

    head to shops called Ross, tj maxx and Marshall's

    this is like the discount outlets of the main stores.
    u can get out of season stuff cheap, like gym gear or American branded stuff (like polo, ck, Tommy etc)

    head to Walmart and grab American snacks lol.

    you going to Hawaii

    Honolulu cookies. they have it on the west coast too. get then all!

    • teamfletch on 12/06/2022 - 08:06
      +1

      This is the best answer so far

    • froberts2 on 14/06/2022 - 10:35

      Unfortunately these style of stores have gone significantly downhill since the pandemic. Their stock levels are generally a fraction of what it used to be, and whilst it's still possible to find something good, it's far more difficult than it used to be. (Speaking specifically of the ones around where I live, but I believe it's true across the entire country)

  • AustriaBargain on 10/06/2022 - 19:50

    Cheeburger.

  • freefall101 on 10/06/2022 - 20:12
    +7

    Jeans and melatonin.

    • gromit on 11/06/2022 - 11:04
      +1

      LOL that is usually the only 2 items I bother with over there. Gone are the days of it being great for shopping, the outlets in seattle or just out of New York are pretty good simp[ly for size. Also if you are tall you can actually get the LT-3XLT sizes off the rack in many of the stores where here they won't stock them.

  • dust on 10/06/2022 - 20:36
    +2

    Marijuana.

    • Thaal Sinestro on 11/06/2022 - 17:31
      +2

      Legal in some jurisdictions but still massively overpriced for an easy to grow plant due to nanny state regulations and taxes.

      Legalize ALL drugs and just add a 10% GST, not ridiclous sin taxes that force poor people to steal in order to afford them. Physician prescriptions would still be needed to get discounted PBS pricing.

      • Daz91 on 11/06/2022 - 18:43
        +3

        Wtf is this comment

        • Nillionaire on 12/06/2022 - 10:09
          +1

          What's wrong with it?

      • dust on 11/06/2022 - 20:00

        I suppose if you're in Canberra there's a much cheaper option!

    • froberts2 on 14/06/2022 - 10:38

      Whilst I'm sure you're joking, keep in mind that MJ is still illegal in the US at the federal level. Technically, as a foreigner, if you're caught with it you can be deported - even in states where it's completely legal. Smoke a joint while you're in the US, and technically you need to answer 'Yes' to the drugs question on your next ESTA/visa application (at which point it'll be refused). Airports are also federal facilities, so it's generally illegal to carry it into an airport (even for a domestic flight).

      Realistically your odds of this being a problem are so close to zero as to be irrelevant, but still…

  • wekimekigugudan on 10/06/2022 - 20:38

    Cheerios

  • lainey13 on 10/06/2022 - 20:47
    +6

    North Face puffer. The prices here compared to the US is ridiculous. Makeup is also cheaper.

    • Top G on 11/06/2022 - 10:31
      +5

      Macpac halo down is the OG

    • Davo1111 on 11/06/2022 - 12:13
      +2

      North face is considered an average brand over there compared to here

Login or Join to leave a comment
Login Join