16 Things to Buy Duty-Free at the Airport
When I was 12 years old, my family went on a trip to Switzerland. When we got to the airport to return to the US, I found myself in the brightly lit consumer paradise of a duty-free shop. With a quick look around, I caught sight of a massive novelty-sized bar of Toblerone chocolate. I begged my mom to get it for me, and I can still recall the taste of the creamy, nut-speckled, triangular-shaped chocolate.
Duty-free means you skip import taxes and other fees, which can dramatically lower the price of certain items. These shops often stock special products and international brands not available at home, perfect for snagging a unique souvenir or trying a new beauty product! Don’t miss out on these duty-free finds at the airport.
1. Chocolates
American chocolate bars are great, but have you tried the melt-in-your-mouth Belgian truffles, British Cadbury bars, or creamy Swiss milk chocolate (like my nostalgic Toblerone)? Duty-free shops offer a world of chocolates you won’t find back home, often at lower prices.
Think about who you’re bringing gifts for and what they like. Milk chocolate for the kiddos, dark chocolate for the cacao connoisseur, and those boozy chocolates for your cool aunt?
2. Local Foods and Snacks
Next time you’re at the airport, skip the food court and explore duty-free shops for local specialties. You’ll find unique snacks and treats that aren’t available back home, like banana chips from Thailand or South African jerky.
These make perfect, personal gifts for foodie friends and family—way better than a keychain or fridge magnet. Plus, they might even share!
3. Cigarettes and Cigars
Duty-free shops offer tax-free savings on cigarettes and cigars, often cheaper than back home, especially if your state has high tobacco taxes. There are lots of brands available, including international ones.
US citizens can bring back one carton (200 cigarettes) or 100 cigars tax-free. Anything more than that, and you’ll be hit with a hefty tax bill (and maybe some serious side-eye from customs agents).
4. Liquor
Liquor is a duty-free classic—imagine snagging a Johnnie Walker Blue Label bottle for less than your local store. Duty-free shops often have a bigger booze selection than regular stores, with stuff from all over the world.
You might find that special bottle of Irish cream liqueur you’ve been eyeing or a fancy French champagne. In the US, people over 21 can bring back one liter duty-free, but going over that means paying taxes. And make sure to pack your bottles carefully in checked baggage to avoid breakage.
5. Jewelry
Duty-free shops love to tempt travelers with shiny things, including jewelry! But before you empty your wallet for that bling, let’s break down the good, the bad, and the bedazzled. Some duty-free shops at airports often have a dazzling selection of jewelry, from sparkly earrings to chunky bracelets. But duty-free doesn’t always mean super cheap.
Sometimes, airport duty-free shops intentionally mark up certain items, so you don’t really save much in the end. Do your research beforehand—online retailers or stores in your destination might offer better deals.
6. Brand Name Cosmetics
Your bestie’s birthday is coming up, and you know she’s obsessed with a particular lipstick brand. Duty-free might have that perfect shade for a guilt-free gift! Duty-free shops don’t charge import taxes, so you could snag MAC’s legendary Ruby Woo lipstick or Urban Decay’s Naked Palettes for sometimes 20% less than at home.
Some shops even offer exclusive beauty sets you can’t find elsewhere. Plus, powders and palettes are carry-on friendly, making it easy to bring back a travel memento that’ll make your friends jealous.
7. Skincare Products
Some Asian countries, like South Korea and Japan, are known for incredible skincare, so if you’re visiting, stocking up at the duty-free shop might be worth your time. Browse around, and you could find that perfect under-eye cream or lip mask that you can’t get at home.
Duty-free means you skip taxes on those fancy mists, oils, and serums. It’s like getting a discount without a coupon, but remember the 3-1-1 rules for carry-on liquids!
8. Fragrances
Duty-free shops offer tax-free fragrances, saving you 10% to 20% compared to department stores. Imagine getting your favorite perfume for the price of that discount!
They also have deodorants, body sprays, and air fresheners. Remember, you can only bring bottles of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less in your carry-on, so spritz the testers to find your perfect match!
9. Watches
Bigger airports have a wider selection of watches than your local store, so you might find that perfect timepiece you’ve been searching for. But remember, duty-free doesn’t always mean a steal.
Do your homework, compare prices online, and check the warranty’s validity back home, as some international warranties may not apply in the US.
10. Designer Bags
Designer bags are the perfect accessory and may even be an investment since some can be resold at a profit if you hold onto them long enough. Duty-free shops let you snag one without import or export taxes, possibly saving you a bit depending on your home state’s sales tax.
However, duty-free prices aren’t always the lowest, so compare them with online and local prices before you buy. And remember, unless it fits neatly into your carry-on, that big, beautiful bag might take up too much space in the overhead compartment.
11. Luxury Fashion
Airports are your gateway to snagging luxury fashion finds like Dior clothing and Gucci sunglasses at tax-free prices—perfect for walking off the plane in style. Why lug shopping bags all vacation?
Pick up those glam items as you land, ready to dazzle in your homecoming outfit. Just be mindful of duty-free limits in each country to avoid any surprises at customs. You wouldn’t want that armful of Armani confiscated!
12. Designer Shoes
Airports are treasure troves for designer shoes, often duty-free, saving you on taxes—great news if you’re from a high-tax state like California. From Tokyo’s limited-edition kicks to exclusive luxury brands, airports might surprise you with their selection. However, duty-free doesn’t automatically mean the best deal, and airport shops often have limited sizing and styles.
13. Electronics
Are you considering a new phone or noise-canceling headphones during your layover? Duty-free stores can save you big on high-end gadgets. It’s like a discount without the hassle of coupons!
But be aware that manufacturers may not honor warranties for items bought abroad due to different technical standards, like power requirements. Also, remember that returning unwanted electronics can be tricky due to stricter return policies in duty-free zones.
14. Local Crafts and Souvenirs
Local crafts and souvenirs can give you a taste of the culture and heritage of the place you visit. A handwoven scarf from Thailand or a funky mask from Venice will be much more interesting than a boring keychain, right?
It’s your last chance to grab that perfect memento before you catch your flight. Keep in mind that, depending on the store, you might find generic, mass-produced items instead of handcrafted souvenirs from local artisans.
15. Toys
The first-ever Toys “R” Us airport store opened in 2023 at the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport! Talk about a dream come true for travel-weary families everywhere. Airports are full of surprises, and tax-free toys are definitely one of them.
You can save a little on Legos or Barbie dolls—think of it as a bonus souvenir. While duty-free shops may have a smaller toy selection, you’ll still find popular brands and travel-size games. Just be aware of any carry-on restrictions, especially for liquids or items like toy guns.
16. Exclusive Products and Sizes
Ever dreamt of snagging that limited-edition Burberry bag from Paris? Duty-free shops at international airports might just have it. You could also find that special edition perfume or a giant bottle of your favorite whiskey that’s only available duty-free.
Score a collector’s item and instant cool points to show off back home. But before you buy, make sure this is something you really want and you’re not just caught up in the excitement.
What Have You Bought From the Duty-Free Shop?
Share with us in the comments!
