Redditor’s Smart Financial Move

A Reddit user recently shared a unique financial strategy that has captured the attention of many. The user, seeking to purchase a MacBook, decided to travel from India to Vietnam, ultimately saving Rs 36,500 on the device. This decision was driven by the high costs associated with purchasing Apple products in India, where import fees, Goods and Services Tax (GST), and premium pricing significantly inflate prices.

The Viral Experiment

In a post titled “I flew to Vietnam from India just to buy a MacBook,” the user detailed their journey. They embarked on this trip with the hope of saving money while enjoying a brief vacation. The post quickly went viral, with many praising the user’s innovative approach to cost-saving.

Journey and Purchase Experience

The Redditor booked an economical round-trip flight to Hanoi, where they worked remotely and explored the city. During their stay, they visited over 15 stores in search of the best deal on a MacBook. The user offered valuable advice for others considering similar purchases, emphasizing the importance of asking for VAT refund documents at the airport.

Significant Savings Achieved

In India, the MacBook was priced at Rs 1.85 lakh with card offers. However, after receiving a VAT refund at the Vietnam airport, the cost was reduced to Rs 1.48 lakh, resulting in substantial savings. The total expenditure for the MacBook and an 11-day trip amounted to Rs 2,08,117 before refunds and approximately Rs 1,97,000 after.

Community Reactions and Future Plans

The post received thousands of upvotes and sparked discussions among social media users. Many expressed interest in undertaking similar trips for future Apple purchases. Some users shared their own experiences of buying Apple products abroad, while others suggested additional ways to save money.