Bottom line, yes.

For example, a RIMOWA Cabin M retails at 7800 SEK (Swedish Krona). VAT in Sweden is 25%. Average VAT refund at the airport is 13%. Swedish retail, less VAT refund, is about $724.

Compare that to RIMOWA Cabin M in Germany. Retail price is 800 EUR. VAT in Germany is 19%. Average VAT refund at the airport is 11%. German retail, less VAT, is about $796.

Finally, a RIMOWA Cabin M in the United States is $1150 USD. Add your sales tax in your locality (say 7.5%, just for kicks). Total US retail comes out to $1236.

So while you won't get the full VAT refund, you'll still come away ahead.

I think a 42% savings is perfectly acceptable.

Good luck and best wishes in your purchase and travels!