Okay I'm totally new to bitcoin have never, ever purchased/used before. I apologize if I've posted a topic that has already been covered but I was unable to find a proper answer for my question.

Basically I'm trying to buy something from an online vendor in the UK and because I live in the US the only option is for me is to use bitcoin.

I'm aware that I can buy fractions of bitcoin but here's the problem I'm having. I simply want to buy $40 worth of bitcoin and my question is: Is there anyway for me to do so without incurring a ridiculous fee for the transaction? Isn't there usually a minimum fee of $15 for buying bitcoin no matter what the amount? Would it be possible to purchase $40 dollars worth of bitcoin and only pay the standard 1% fee for this?

Can anyone provide me with some guidance on this and if possible links to a bitcoin exchange where this type of transaction would be possible.

Thanks.