Preface: I’m a photographer working in America.

To your point Mike: Partially true, there is no tax posted because it often isn’t charged on online purchases. Currently, there is no tax on items purchased online unless the retailer is headquartered in your state or the state you live in requires it on online goods (side note: I don’t know of any states that have passed this, though they are trying). When I order my camera gear from a retailer in New York, I only pay their asking price plus shipping (if any) and I get my gear in about 3 days. Frequenting my local camera shop (which I do love) costs me the tax plus their 10% markup over online.

Thanks for outlining the outrageous difference in price points, Wade. I’m considering an extended stay in Australia and I’ll be sure to get my complete kit here before I do. I knew there was a drastic difference in prices just from the short time I’ve spent there, but wasn’t aware that the gap could buy the plane tickets there and back.

We have a similar situation in the UK, but one factor that needs to be taken into account is taxation. Here in the UK, prices include VAT, but when you see US online prices, they often don’t include taxes, as they vary from state to state.

I often find I can import a lens from Hong Kong for a considerable saving. I think that Canon lenses are covered by a worldwide warranty, while bodies aren’t. I don’t have an explanation for that, though.