When it comes to shopping for bags, I’m picky. Even more picky when it comes to Kipling bags. So, when I heard there were counterfeit ‘Kipling’ bags coming out of Vietnam, you bet I was hesitant to take a chance!
On my last visit to Vietnam, the Kipling bags were everywhere. It’s seems like every street corner was saturated with them. While it made shopping convenient, I had read all the news about the counterfeits and was on guard. I started to pay close attention to the details that make a bag ‘real’.
Before I knew it, I found myself inside the Kipling store. There was so much color, the perfect touch of class, and a distinct air of high quality. I was sure it was the real deal.
When I decided to buy a bag, the salesperson asked me if I wanted the ‘real’ one. That’s when I knew I was on the right track. When I held the bag, it felt solid – the zippers, the stitching, the fabric were all of an excellent quality – something I just knew a fake could never replicate.
The experience of finally finding a genuine article of Kipling in Vietnam was one of relief and satisfaction. I got the bag I wanted, and I can feel confident that I’m not walking around with fakes.
The moral of the story is – be careful when shopping for Kipling bags in Vietnam. Yes, counterfeits are everywhere – but if you take the time to pay close attention to the details, you can score yourself a genuine article.
I’ve often thought about what I would do if I discovered a fake Kipling bag in my collection. Would I keep it? Donate it? Kick it aside? I guess, depending on the cost and condition of the bag, it would depend on the situation.
When it comes to buying a bag from Vietnam, I’ve found that I enjoy the experience of going into the store to search and inspect. Even though it is more time consuming, I find that it offers me some peace of mind that I’ve got myself the ‘real deal’.
As for shopping online? I take extra precaution. I read reviews, carefully inspect pictures, and always search for certified dealers. The last thing I want is to be racing back to the store or dealing with a return (not that I’ve had to experience that before).
When avoiding counterfeits, I think that using a reputable dealer is a must. It might cost a few extra bucks, but being able to get a quality, genuine product is worth it.
On my recent trip to get my Kipling, I’m proud to say I ended up with a real bag. What was my secret? If I wanted documentation of its authenticity, the store was more than happy to provide. They even had a machine that could read the microchip on each product to prove the bag was an original.
Since then, I haven’t looked back. The hardware, lining and other details of the bag have held up against even the toughest of testings. It looks as beautiful as it did when I first bought it and I know it will stay that way.
I’m now more aware of what’s out there and how to check for authentic brands. What I’ve learnt is, if I research the stores, understand what to look out for in terms of quality and authenticity and where to shop, then then I can find the best of what Vietnam has to offer.
When it comes to Kipling bags, I now know the signs to watch out for; the flaws in the fabric, the shoddy zippers, and the cheap hardware. I’m also aware that there are websites and stores that can help me ensure I’m not getting ripped off.
Since then, my experience in Vietnam has been significantly more enjoyable. I can take the time to find what I’m searching for at ease, without worrying about falling victim to the plentiful engaging sales pitches, and rest assured that I’ll be getting my hands on the genuine item. A reassuring sense of accomplishment that I’m sure not everyone can say!