Planning a trip to the UK? Don’t miss out on these 10 popular brands that are cheaper in the UK than Singapore, from high-fashion to bicycles and homewares.
So you’re in the UK and wondering what’s really worth spending your GBP on? In this ultimate travel savings guide, we’ll unveil the best deals on brands that are cheaper in the UK than back home — giving you insider tips on how to snag the best bargains during your trip.
The UK may not be the best place for shopping in Europe because of the lack of VAT refunds but we’re here to help you find brands with significantly lower price tags than in Singapore. From Cadbury’s creamy Cadbury bars to Primark’s trendy threads, prepare to have your shopping senses tantalised by brands that are much, much cheaper in the land of Big Ben and double-decker buses.
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🤤 Food
1. Whittard of Chelsea
Image credits: Covent Garden
Ever walked past beautifully packaged tins of coffee and tea while walking in department stores like Takashimaya? That’s probably Whittard! For tea and cookie enthusiasts in Singapore, a trip to the UK unlocks a delightful secret – Whittard of Chelsea at significantly lower prices! Explore their diverse blends, from robust English Breakfast to fragrant Moroccan Mint, at considerably less than you’d pay at home. If tea is not your thing, check out their luxurious chocolate drinks in exotic flavours like Madagascan Vanilla or Salted Caramel, perfect for gifting or personal indulgence.
There are also plenty of gourmet cookie selections in pretty packaging great for gift-giving. Whittard of Chelsea also has brick-and-mortar stores in the UK which are much better stocked than the selections offered in our local department stores. A place dedicated to tea, coffee, and biscuits? Definitely count on it to be a wonderful sensory experience.
| Item | Price in Singapore | Price in UK |
| Earl Grey 25 Individually Wrapped Tea Bags | S$18 | £6 (~S$10) |
| Luxury Hot Chocolate 350g | S$29 | £10 (~S$16.80) |
*Price in SG Taken from Whittard’s official Shopee store. Price in UK taken from Whittard’s website
YouTrip’s Ultimate Saving Guide: Unveiling Brands That Are Cheaper In The UK Than Back Home: Find out more here
2. Twinings
Image credits: Twinings India
Twinings teas, the beloved British brand with over 300 years of expertise, often cost significantly less across the pond. Explore their signature blends, like the iconic English Breakfast or the fragrant Earl Grey, and indulge in fragrant loose-leaf varieties like the delicate Jasmine Green Tea, all at remarkably lower prices than in Singapore. While Twinings is not a particularly expensive brand and can be easily found in supermarkets in Singapore, the prices for Twinings products in the UK are significantly cheaper.
| Item | Price in Singapore | Price in UK |
| English Breakfast Teabags | S$8.50 for 25 tea bags | £2.79 (~S$4.70) for 40 tea bags |
| Strawberry & Mango Tea Bags | S$9.60 for 25 tea bags | £2.79 (~S$4.70) for 20 tea bags |
*Price in SG Taken from Twinings official shopee store. Price in UK taken from Twinings’ website
YouTrip’s Ultimate Saving Guide: Unveiling Brands That Are Cheaper In The UK Than Back Home: Find out more here
🛍️ Fashion
3. Burberry
Image credits: Fortune
The brand with the iconic check print needs no introduction. Burberry’s an iconic British luxury fashion house known for its timeless British fashion, especially its iconic trench coats, scarves, and accessories. The brand, celebrated globally for its sophistication, becomes even more accessible when purchased from its home country in the United Kingdom.
Get your wallets ready for some shopping as the famed Burberry trench coat, a symbol of enduring style, often comes with a more reasonable price tag in the UK. This also extends to Burberry’s signature scarves, known for their luxury and the iconic check pattern, as well as their handbags, eyewear and fragrances.
Beyond the price advantage, buying Burberry in the UK offers an immersive experience of the brand’s rich heritage. Buying and wearing your Burberry trench at a store in the streets of London will surely be quite memorable!
Is buying Burberry in the UK worth it? YES, a shopping spree here is completely justifiable as it’s a practical and budget-friendly choice, offering not only the elegance of the brand but also a unique connection to its British roots!
| Item | Price in Singapore | Price in UK |
| Men’s Long Kensington Trench Coat | S$3,950 | £1,890 (~S$3,170) |
| Check Cashmere Scarf | S$880 | £420 (~S$704.32) |
*Price in SG Taken from Burberry’s SG website. Price in UK taken from Burberry’s UK website
YouTrip’s Ultimate Saving Guide: Unveiling Brands That Are Cheaper In The UK Than Back Home: Find out more here
4. Fred Perry
Image credits: Studio AS-CC
For fans of the iconic laurel wreath, a trip to the UK promises a haul like no other. While Fred Perry’s crisp polos and heritage sportswear might leave a dent in your wallet back in Singapore, across the pond, you’ll find yourself gleefully adding item after item to your basket without hesitation.
Fred Perry is a British brand, known for its iconic piqué polo shirts and distinctive laurel wreath logo. It’s celebrated for its blend of sporty aesthetics and timeless style and has solidified its place as a wardrobe essential for many.
The UK, being the birthplace of Fred Perry, naturally provides more favourable prices for this beloved brand. This affordability makes Fred Perry a must-add to your shopping list during a visit to the United Kingdom.
| Item | Price in Singapore | Price in UK |
| Ringer T-Shirt | S$53.23 | £22.50 (~S$37.73) |
| The Fred Perry Shirt M3600 | S$143.51 | £75 (~S$125.78) |
*Prices taken from Fred Perry’s official SG and UK websites respectively.
YouTrip’s Ultimate Saving Guide: Unveiling Brands That Are Cheaper In The UK Than Back Home: Find out more here
5. Barbour
Image credits: The Rebel Dandy
Looking for that rugged, workwear-type aesthetic? Dive into the world of Barbour, where durable outerwear meets budget-friendly sophistication, creating a harmonious blend of fashion and practicality.
The brand is famous for its waxed cotton jackets, which are a staple of British country clothing. It is highly coveted by workwear enthusiasts because Barbour seamlessly merges durability with sophisticated style, making it a staple in the wardrobes of those who appreciate quality craftsmanship. From Kate Middleton to Daniel Craig, the weatherproof Barbour is very much worn by many other famous people.
However, the price of a Barbour jacket can be steep. A typical Barbour waxed jacket costs between £200 and £300 in the UK, while the same jacket can cost up to S$600 in Singapore. This makes Barbour a brand that is worth buying in the UK if you want to save some money and enjoy a classic piece of British heritage.
| Item | Price in Singapore | Price in UK |
| Beaufort Waxed Jacket | S$579 | £289 (~S$484.50) |
| Barbour T-Shirt | S$84 | £36.95 (~S$61.95) |
*Prices taken from Barbour’s official SG and UK websites respectively.
YouTrip’s Ultimate Saving Guide: Unveiling Brands That Are Cheaper In The UK Than Back Home: Find out more here
6. Clarks
Image credits: Clarks
Known for its functional designs and commitment to craftsmanship, Clarks is a renowned brand that resonates with individuals seeking both fashion and practicality in their footwear. Clarks, a beacon of British footwear excellence, offers more than just comfort and style — it provides a pleasantly surprising budget-friendly option when purchased in its home country.
The classic comfort and enduring style that Clarks is known for can come with a friendlier price tag when acquired directly from the source. This revelation adds an extra layer of appeal for those drawn to the brand’s reputation for quality.
Clarks shoe enthusiasts looking to not only experience comfort and style but can also do so while saving a few bucks. From their iconic Desert boots and Wallabee to sensible court pumps, there’s comfort to be found in each pair of Clarks.
| Item | Price in Singapore | Price in UK |
| Clarkdale Easy Chelsea Boots | S$279 | £130 (~S$217.96) |
| Desert Boots | S$219 | £120 (~S$201.20) |
*Prices taken from Clarks’ official SG and UK websites respectively.
YouTrip’s Ultimate Saving Guide: Unveiling Brands That Are Cheaper In The UK Than Back Home: Find out more here
💄 Beauty
7. The Body Shop
Image credits: Merry Hill
Renowned for its commitment to cruelty-free and environmentally conscious products, The Body Shop has garnered a loyal following worldwide. Singaporeans are no strangers to The Body Shop — we’ve seen this beauty brand with stores in our shopping malls. In fact, it’s probably one of the most accessible cruelty-free brands in Singapore. And you can get their products for slightly cheaper in the UK.
As you step into The Body Shop stores in the UK, the breadth of skincare essentials and fragrances is not only a treat for your skin but also a welcome respite for your wallet. After all, The Body Shop is a British brand; its products are at a more accessible price point in its home country without import taxes.
The prospect of acquiring The Body Shop products at lower prices in the UK enhances the brand’s appeal, making ethical beauty not only a conscious choice for your skin but also a sensible one for your budget. So, for those passionate about ethical skincare, a visit to The Body Shop in the United Kingdom promises not just a pampering session but also an unexpected financial perk.
| Item | Price in Singapore | Price in UK |
| Oils of Life™ Intensely Revitalising Facial Oil 50ml | S$63 | £30 (~S$50.31) |
| Edelweiss Daily Serum Concentrate 30ml | S$75 | £32 (~S$53.66) |
*Prices taken from The Body Shop’s official SG and UK websites respectively.
YouTrip’s Ultimate Saving Guide: Unveiling Brands That Are Cheaper In The UK Than Back Home: Find out more here
💫 Miscellaneous
8. Brompton
Image credits: Brompton
Acquiring a Brompton bicycle in the United Kingdom compared to Singapore unveils not only a difference in geography but a noteworthy divergence in pricing dynamics. As the birthplace and headquarters of Brompton, the UK offers a unique advantage for enthusiasts seeking the iconic folding bike. Being a British brand with a global reputation, purchasing a Brompton in the UK often presents a more economical option compared to Singapore. As usual, the reasons for this cost discrepancy lie in import taxes, shipping costs, and local market dynamics.
In Singapore, where Brompton enjoys a significant following, import taxes play a considerable role in raising the overall cost of the bicycle. Additionally, shipping expenses incurred to transport these meticulously crafted bikes across continents contribute to the final retail price as the logistics unavoidably result in a higher price tag for purchasing Brompton bicycles in Singapore.
Whereas, buying a Brompton in the UK provides direct access to the manufacturer, eliminating the need for extensive international shipping and associated costs. This translates into a more budget-friendly purchase for consumers in the UK.
However, if you do plan on shipping it back to Singapore, please consider the shipping costs that will add up to the total price of the bicycle
| Item | Price in Singapore | Price in UK |
| C-Line Explore | S$2,995 | £1,495 (~S$2,507.01) |
| P-Line Urban | S$4,495 | £2,270 (~S$3,806.63) |
| T-Line | S$7,908 | £4,250 (~S$7,126.96) |
*Price in SG Taken from Brompton’s SG website. Price in UK taken from Brompton’s UK website
YouTrip’s Ultimate Saving Guide: Unveiling Brands That Are Cheaper In The UK Than Back Home: Find out more here
9. Marks & Spencer
Image credits: Bloomberg
Marks & Spencer is a British brand known for its versatile range spanning clothing, food and household goods. While Singaporeans have long embraced the timeless appeal of Marks & Spencer, many find the price tag relatively steep. However, A trip to any Marks & Spencer in the UK quickly uncovers a distinct advantage in terms of affordability.
The classic British retailer, with its roots deeply embedded in the UK, often presents its extensive product line at a more accessible price point on home turf. The cost disparity can be attributed to various factors, including import taxes, shipping costs, and market dynamics. Purchasing Marks & Spencer products in Singapore includes additional expenses associated with importing goods from their country of origin, contributing to the overall retail price.
So if you’ve always wanted to shop carefreely and confidently in a Marks & Spencer but never got to do it in Singapore, try visiting one during your trip to the UK. A visit to Marks & Spencer on its home turf not only allows for an expansive exploration of its offerings but also ensures a more budget-friendly retail experience, adding an extra layer of delight to your shopping adventure.
| Item | Price in Singapore | Price in UK |
| 5pk Pure Cotton Assorted Jersey Boxers | S$79.90 | £30 (~S$50.31) |
| The Legend of Zelda Tears of the Kingdom (box edition) | S$59.90 | £27.50 (~S$46.12) |
| Pokemon Scarlet (box edition) | S$4.90 | £1.10 (~S$1.84) |
Prices for Marks & Spencer Dark Chocolate Digestives are taken from Fairprice and Ocado for SG and UK respectively. Prices for boxers and fitted sheets are from Marks & Spencer’s SG and UK official websites.
YouTrip’s Ultimate Saving Guide: Unveiling Brands That Are Cheaper In The UK Than Back Home: Find out more here
10. Laura Ashley
Image credits: Laura Ashley UK Twitter
Looking for some charming decor to bring back home from your trip? Try Laura Ashley. Laura Ashley is well-known for her classic and unique designs that perfectly capture the essence of the British style. The elegance and sophistication inherent in Laura Ashley’s creations are a reflection of the rich cultural tapestry of the United Kingdom.
Whether it’s floral patterns or tasteful furnishings, the brand’s offerings gain an extra layer of charm when obtained in the very environment that serves as their inspiration. A trip to Laura Ashley in the UK presents an opportunity to infuse your living spaces with British elegance, all the while relishing the cost-effectiveness that accompanies acquiring these designs at their origin.
| Item | Price in Singapore | Price in UK |
| Laura Ashley Super King Bedset | S$318 | £135 (~S$226.47) |
| Ribbed Reed Glass Hurricane Candle Holder | S$184 | £100 (~S$167.75) |
| Frosted Pedestal Hurricane Candle Holder | $166 | £90 (~S$150.98) |
*Price in SG Taken from Lazada SG and Next.sg. Price in UK taken from Laura Ashley’s UK website
YouTrip’s Ultimate Saving Guide: Unveiling Brands That Are Cheaper In The UK Than Back Home: Find out more here
Splurge Away In The Land Of Tea Time!
While the exchange rates and pricing structures may fluctuate, the overall trend suggests that the grass might just be greener — and more economical — on the British side when it comes to indulging in your favourite British brands considering the lack of taxes and fees. So, if you find yourself in the UK, consider going on a shopping adventure to uncover these items that will surely add a touch of British flair to your lifestyle and dressing. And of course, don’t forget to make the best use of your YouTrip card for the best GBP rates in town!
So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with promo code <YTBLOG5> and get FREE S$5 in your account!
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Happy shopping!
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