If I HAVE to have it, then WHY BUY IT FAKE? If I have to have a Louis Vuitton purse, then it OUGHT to be a real one. It is that simple.

This is where Europeans are way ahead of Americans; they go for quality, not quantity.

Sorry, but in my book, along with every designer label, real or fake, comes a sign written on the wearer's forehead: "I'm so shallow that I want you to think I have a lot of money. I am a drone that allows others to make fashion decisions for me."

Apparently, when fakes are involved, to the sign should be added, "I am either ignorant of or indifferent to the suffering I cause in the world."

Besides the supporting the criminal element, it seems silly to buy fakes. Who are you trying to impress?
People who can afford the real thing? You just look like a wannabe. The other people who can't afford the real thing won't know the difference. It's better to buy something well made that is affordable to you.
Bottom line: if you don't have to replace the fakes that fall apart then you'll have more money for travel!! And after all, isn't that what's important???

My solution is that I don't carry a bag, genuine or fake.

I'm just ruminating on how quirky the human race can be. Someone manufactures a not so great (quality-wise) bag/whatever and there will actually be other people who are willing to knock down doors in order to become walking advertisements for the manufacturer AND pay the manufacturer a HUGE price to be a walking advertisement! =D>