Fergie's huge fine for packing 51 pieces of excess luggage – like £515 teddy
Sarah Ferguson, once the Duchess of York, was famous for her extravagant lifestyle, which often drew media attention. Her tendency to spend lavishly became particularly evident after marrying Prince Andrew.
Lavish Spending on a New York Trip
During one return flight from New York, Fergie was fined nearly £1,000 for packing over fifty pieces of excess luggage in first class. The collection of cases allegedly contained around £33,000 worth of purchases, including a £515 teddy bear.
“Not even Joan Collins has this much.” — Heathrow baggage handler
The palace declined to clarify who paid her expenses following the incident.
Extravagant Financial Habits
According to her financial advisor, John Bryan, Sarah was spending more than £860,000 annually. This included approximately £150,000 on gifts, £50,000 on flowers, and the same amount on parties.
Early Career and Humble Beginnings
Before her marriage, Sarah had a modest work history. She worked cleaning ski chalets and later took a job with a publishing firm. Reflecting on her early years, she shared more about these experiences.
“I cleaned lavatories when I was 18 and graduates' bedrooms; they all left it very messy. And then the waitress in a strudel house.” — Sarah Ferguson
Author’s Summary
Sarah Ferguson’s lavish habits, from excessive travel luggage to costly comforts like a £515 teddy bear, starkly contrast with her once humble, hard-working beginnings.