Planning to shop at Pukas in Europe? This comprehensive guide shows you exactly how to maximize your VAT refund savings, where to find Pukas stores across Europe, and insider tips to get the most money back on your purchases.
About Pukas
Founded in 1975 by Basque surfer Jesús 'Pukas' Fiochi in Zarautz, Spain, Pukas became the legendary Spanish surf brand embodying Basque surf culture and Atlantic wave riding. For decades, Pukas shaped the European surf scene, sponsoring top surfers and shaping premium surfboards. The brand represents authentic Basque surfing heritage, offering surfboards, wetsuits, and surf apparel rooted in Spain's northern coastline and wave-riding tradition.
Signature Products & Prices
Custom Surfboards
€400–€900
Wetsuits & Neoprene Gear
€100–€400
Surf Apparel & Tees
€25–€80
Boardshorts & Swimwear
€40–€90
Why Shop Pukas in Europe?
Pukas is an authentic Basque surf brand with the best selection and prices in Spain. Spain's zero VAT minimum with 15.7% refunds makes surf apparel and equipment significantly cheaper. Access to custom surfboards shaped in Spain by legendary Basque shapers, and exclusive collections celebrating Atlantic surf culture not available internationally.
Best Cities to Shop Pukas
San Sebastián
Basque Country surf capital, brand birthplace
Why Shop Pukas with TravelMoney
Up to 100% VAT Refunds
Get significantly more money back compared to standard 12% refunds
2 Pukas Locations
Across 1 European cities
Instant Refunds
No waiting weeks for your money back
Digital Process
Upload receipts, scan at airport, done
Pukas Store Locations in Europe
san
Pukas Old Town
Calle Fermín Calbetón, 21, 20003 San Sebastián, Spain
Opening Hours:
monday: 10:00 - 20:30
tuesday: 10:00 - 20:30
wednesday: 10:00 - 20:30
thursday: 10:00 - 20:30
friday: 10:00 - 20:30
saturday: 10:00 - 20:30
sunday: 11:00 - 14:00
Pukas Gros
Calle Peña y Goñi, 8, 20002 San Sebastián, Spain
Opening Hours:
monday: 10:00 - 20:30
tuesday: 10:00 - 20:30
wednesday: 10:00 - 20:30
thursday: 10:00 - 20:30
friday: 10:00 - 20:30
saturday: 10:00 - 20:30
sunday: Closed
How Much Can You Save?
VAT Refund Examples
Purchase: €1,000 → Get back €120-150 (standard refund) or up to €180 (TravelMoney)
Purchase: €5,000 → Get back €600-750 (standard refund) or up to €900 (TravelMoney)
Purchase: €10,000 → Get back €1,200-1,500 (standard refund) or up to €1,800 (TravelMoney)
How to Get Your VAT Refund: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Before making a purchase
Request Custom Invoice
When checking out at Pukas, request the invoice to be made out to "Travel Money" with our Paris address. This is critical for maximizing your refund.
Step 2: When making a purchase
Pay in Local Currency
Always choose to pay in euros (€) instead of your home currency to avoid poor exchange rates and maximize savings.
Step 3: After shopping
Upload Invoice & Receipt
Immediately upload your Pukas invoice and receipt in the TravelMoney app. Don't wait until you get to the airport.
Step 4: When leaving the EU
Scan Barcode at Point of Departure
At the airport, port, or train station, scan the barcode on your TravelMoney app at customs. Bring your Pukas purchase in carry-on for potential inspection.
VAT Refund Essentials
Core Requirements
- Minimum Spend: No minimum in total purchase value
- Eligibility: Non-EU permanent residents, under 6-month stay, purchasing goods for personal use
- Time limits: 3 months to validate at point of departure + 6 months to claim refund
- VAT Rate: 21% standard rate (most luxury goods)
Pro Tips for Pukas Shoppers
- →Spain has ZERO VAT minimum—get 15.7% refunds even on single surf tee (unique in Europe)
- →San Sebastián location in Basque Country—brand's spiritual home
- →European surf brands offer better value than US/Australian equivalents
- →Custom surfboard orders available at Spanish flagship locations
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get VAT refund on Pukas online purchases?
No. VAT refunds are only available for in-store purchases made in Europe. Online orders shipped internationally are already VAT-exempt.
Do I need to show my Pukas purchase at customs?
High-value items (typically over €1,000) may require physical inspection at customs. Keep your purchase in carry-on luggage, not checked bags.
What if I'm connecting through a non-EU airport?
You must validate your VAT refund at your last EU point of departure, not your final destination. For example, if flying Paris → London → New York, validate in Paris.
How long does it take to get my refund?
With TravelMoney, refunds are processed instantly once validated at customs. Standard tax-free services can take 4-12 weeks.
For Shoppers
Get up to 100% VAT refunds on your Pukas shopping. Join the waitlist for instant refunds.
For Merchants
Partner with TravelMoney to offer instant VAT refunds and attract more international shoppers.