Perusing a duty-free shop is tempting when you're trying to kill a few hours before your flight. While they offer eye-catching displays and the promise of big savings, not everything sold behind airport security is an irresistible deal. In reality, many items are priced similarly to what you'd find at most stores, or even higher, to take advantage of you.
The key to duty-free shopping is recognizing which products offer real savings and value, and which should be left on the shelves. You need to shop strategically and with intention, not just to kill time. By doing it right, you can save money while getting the quality items you want.
Here are some duty-free purchases that are actually worth it.
Alcohol and Premium Spirits
Alcohol is one of the most reliable duty-free deals in most airports, especially for premium spirits. Taxes and import duties contribute greatly to the cost of alcohol, so removing them can produce noticeable savings. Whiskey, rum, and cognac drinkers, especially, could reap big savings.
Duty-free shops also carry travel-exclusive editions, like limited blends or bottle sizes that you can't find in other liquor stores. If you like to gift alcohol or keep a fully stocked bar at home, you should spend some time at the duty-free shop. Keep a list of the cost of your favorite alcoholic beverages, so you can compare when you're at the airport.
Fragrances and Cosmetics
Two of the most popular duty-free categories are perfume and cosmetics, and for good reason. These items are subjected to high markups in most regular retail environments. Duty-free pricing can offer real savings, especially on luxury brands. Frangrances, in particular, can be a lot cheaper, and many bottles are available at a more appealing per-ounce price.
You might also find a lot of exclusive gift sets at duty-free shops. These sets bundle perfume with a bonus gift like a skincare product. Try not to impulse buy a new perfume or cosmetic. We recommend sticking to the products and brands that you trust and love. This way, you'll save money on something you'll actually use.
Tobacco Products
Depending on local laws, duty-free tobacco products can come at a significant discount. Cigarettes, cigars, and rolling tobacco are heavily taxed items, meaning that duty-free pricing is often lower than at standard retail outlets. For instance, premium cigars can carry strong value.
You need to understand your destination's import limits. If you exceed legal allowances, you can undermine your savings. If you stay within the legal limits, however, duty-free shops are one of the most cost-effective places to buy most tobacco products.
Remove the guesswork from duty-free shopping. While many products are marked up for profit, some categories deliver true value and savings. Alcohol, fragrances, cosmetics, and tobacco products are wise duty-free purchases as long as you shop with intention and stay within the legal limits. Focus on the products you already use or want to gift to someone, and try not to get swept up in perceived savings.
