Fergie's Huge Fine for Excess Luggage
Sarah Ferguson, once the Duchess of York, became widely known for her extravagant lifestyle after marrying Prince Andrew. Her love of spending reached remarkable levels during her travels and beyond.
A Costly New York Trip
On a first-class flight from New York, Sarah faced a fine of nearly £1,000 for bringing more than fifty extra pieces of luggage. The cases held around £33,000 worth of purchases, including a single teddy bear that cost £515.
“Not even Joan Collins has this much,” a Heathrow baggage handler was quoted as saying.
The palace declined to confirm who paid for Sarah’s travel expenses on that occasion.
Lavish Spending Habits
According to her financial advisor, John Bryan, Sarah’s annual spending exceeded £860,000. This included about £150,000 on gifts, £50,000 on flowers, and another £50,000 on parties.
Life Before Royalty
Before her marriage, Sarah held several modest jobs. She once worked cleaning ski chalets and later took a position at a publishing company. In an interview with the Swedish show Skavlan, she spoke about her early working life.
“I cleaned lavatories when I was 18 and graduates' bedrooms; they all left it very messy. And then the waitress in a strudel house.”
Author’s Summary
Fergie’s fine for overpacking highlighted her broader pattern of lavish spending, revealing just how far her glamorous lifestyle extended beyond royal expectations.