Half of British holidaymakers are unaware they’re eligible to claim money back on goods purchased in most European countries.
In new research conducted by ABTA, 51 per cent of UK adults admitted they didn’t know they could claim back on VAT purchases made while holidaying in the EU – meaning thousands are missing out on potential savings when travelling home.
The survey, which gathered responses from 1,000 UK adults, found almost half (49 per cent) of Brits are aware that UK passport holders can claim VAT refunds on goods bought in EU countries – though only one in four know how to make a claim.
Just one in eight said they’ve never claimed back VAT on purchases made during their trips to Europe.
Younger travellers aged between 18 and 34 were found to be the most informed – almost seven in ten are aware of the opportunity to claim, compared with just 38 per cent of those over 65.
Awareness is significantly lower among the 55 to 64 demographic, with only 33 per cent of people in this group admitting they knew of the claim.
Most, if not all, EU countries offers a VAT refund scheme for non-EU travellers on eligible goods, provided specific procedures are followed before leaving the EU.
The spending threshold and rate for VAT refunds vary, but the process is essentially the same.
In new research conducted by ABTA, 51 per cent of UK adults admitted they didn’t know they could claim back on VAT purchases made while holidaying in the EU – meaning thousands are missing out on potential savings when travelling home
In Spain, shoppers must spend at least €90.15 (£79.40) in one store to be eligible for a refund of 21 per cent, while Greece requires a minimum spend of just €50 (£44) for a 24 per cent return.
In order to claim back money, you’ll need to request a tax-free form and show your British passport at the time of purchase.
Refunds are processed when you are leaving the EU, either at an airport, port or train station at designated kiosks or stands.
Simply present your receipt, tax-free form, boarding pass, passport, and the goods themselves, for approval. The funds are then returned to you in cash or to a card of your choice.
Some goods and services are excluded from refunds, such as food and drink consumed immediately, alcohol and tobacco products, goods used within the country and services like hotel stays and entertainment.
Graeme Buck, Director of Communications at ABTA, said: ‘Nobody wants to miss out on money which they are entitled to.
‘Be a VAT victor and know how to claim VAT refunds to make those holiday spending sprees in Europe go that little bit further. It’s always worth asking at the till to see if your purchase is eligible.’
Meanwhile, two thirds of young Brits say they have travelled abroad without health insurance, it has been revealed.
Some goods and services are excluded from refunds, such as food and drink consumed immediately, alcohol and tobacco products, goods used within the country and services like hotel stays and entertainment
This could see travellers at risk of high costs for medical emergencies, flight cancellations or lost belongings – among other travel-related expenses.
Nearly half of Brits overall – 46 per cent – say they have travelled without taking out any form of travel insurance for trips abroad, according to a new study.
Many of those who opt to forgo travel insurance could leave themselves exposed to significant costs later down the line if things go wrong.
It comes despite the fact that more than a quarter of Brits (29 per cent) have claimed on travel insurance, for an average of over £4,500.
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