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A guide to duty free airport shopping

After clearing security and passport control, many travelers find themselves wandering through an enchanting place in the airport: duty-free shops.

With enticing displays of chocolate, cosmetics, jewelry, and more, duty-free shopping can be just the ticket for great bargains (and some last-minute souvenirs). However, it's not guaranteed to save you money – and some items may even cost more than elsewhere. Here's how to decipher what's worth it – and what's not.

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What does duty-free mean?

How does duty-free work, is duty-free cheaper, what are the best duty free items to buy at the airport, which airports have the best duty free shopping, let the buyer beware.

Duty free means that the goods in question – for example, jewelry, alcohol, tobacco products, or food – aren’t subject to local government taxes and import duties since they’re crossing international borders. The general idea is since they’re not being used or consumed in their country of purchase, local taxes aren’t applied.

Most duty free shops are concentrated in international airports. But they can also be found in seaports, on certain cruise ships and ferries, and some small border towns.

In addition, certain countries, such as Andorra , a tiny nation nestled between France and Spain, are popular destinations for duty free shopping, especially among Europeans. Although its currency is the euro, Andorra is not a member of the European Union. As a result, it can entice travelers with tax-free prices.

An important rule to remember for duty free shopping: It’s available only to international travelers.

Travelers can make duty free purchases at the airport for two general uses: to bring back to another destination, such as their country of residence, or to consume or use wherever they are visiting.

That’s right: One sometimes overlooked advantage of duty free shopping is that travelers can score savings on goods they’ll use during their trip. For example, in places like the United Arab Emirates and Iceland, where alcohol is notoriously expensive, in-bound travelers can buy a bottle or two of their favorite tipple at the airport to drink during their trip and pay far less than retail prices.

The purchasing process is almost the same as any other retail shop. At the register, you’ll need to show your boarding pass (so be sure to have it handy). In addition, if given the choice to pay in local currency or U.S. dollars, it’s usually better to pay in local currency to avoid conversion charges – which could negate that good deal you’re getting.

Duty-free shopping usually makes the most financial sense when travelers can buy items or goods not available in their home country or when there are significant discounts. How much travelers can save also will vary widely depending on the country and airport.

In addition, some items can cost more than what you’d pay for them elsewhere, whether online or at a brick-and-mortar shop in your home country.

So it pays to do some online research beforehand. In addition, some airports also offer duty free shopping online. It’s a handy way for travelers to compare prices ahead of time to make sure you’re getting the best deal. You can also purchase goods ahead of time for pick-up at the airport.

Certain categories of items generally offer decent deals. Among them: consumable goods that are highly taxed – including those subject to so-called “sin taxes” like cigarettes and alcohol.

In addition, travelers buying duty-free at the airport can avoid the value-added tax (also known as VAT, a local sales tax that's most common in Europe). Depending on the country, VAT ranges from as little as 5% up to a hefty 25%.

Before going on a duty free shopping spree at the airport, remember that U.S. Customs and Border Protection has strict limits on how many duty-free purchases travelers can bring into the country. Those include a tax-free exemption of up to $800 worth of merchandise. As part of this exemption, only one liter of alcohol, 200 cigarettes, and 100 cigars are permitted.

Duty free shops generally offer good deals on alcohol because of its high taxes in many countries. Duty-free airport shops can be excellent options for bringing home a souvenir bottle of a popular local drink (port wine in Portugal, for example) without having to lug it around during your entire trip.

Tobacco products

With U.S. state taxes on cigarettes, smokers can score big savings by stocking up while abroad.

But don’t get too carried away: Travelers are only allowed to bring in 200 cigarettes (that’s one carton) tax-free. Cigar aficionados, meanwhile, are allowed 100 cigars (but none from Cuba, which are still banned in the States).

Luxury goods

Deals can generally be found on certain luxury goods, like high-end fashion clothing brands, purses, and jewelry, since the higher the cost, the more you’ll save on taxes. Again, whenever possible, passengers should check prices ahead of time to make sure they’re getting the best deal.

Duty-free shopping is a key part of the airport experience. However, some facilities have recently elevated their duty-free offerings, with online availability and even concierge services. Here are a few notable spots where browsing may inspire purchases on your next trip.

Hamad International Airport, Qatar (DOH)

With a main terminal offering 430,000 square feet of shopping and dining options, this hub is one of the world’s top airports for shopping. Travelers can peruse the standard duty-free options or score some savings on high-end brands at a dedicated luxury area under the first-class lounge for Qatar Airways.

Dubai airport (DXB)

With one of the world’s largest duty free areas with upwards of 492,000 square feet, DXB beckons shoppers with extensive luxury offerings Dubai is known for. The airport also offers special services for duty free shoppers, such as delivery of goods straight to the gate or to passengers’ home country via online purchasing.

Istanbul (IST)

Another highly ranked facility, this new airport features a whopping 592,000 square feet of duty-free options. Fashionistas in particular will love the nearly 194,000 square feet dedicated to high-end boutiques.

Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)

Singapore’s Changi Airport ranks consistently among the top airports in the world. No surprise, then, that its shopping options, including duty free, are best in class. Changi also offers a shopping assistance called Shopping Concierge, which can help travelers suss out the best savings.

Keflavik International Airport, Iceland (KEF)

Keflavik International Airport in Reykjavik is a duty free shopper’s dream, thanks to excellent duty-free options in both the departures and arrivals area. That means arriving passengers can take advantage of lower prices on Iceland’s exorbitant prices on liquor to enjoy during their trip. On the way home, they can stock up on local Icelandic products for unique souvenirs.

Already an integral part of the airport experience, duty free shopping is gaining traction among international travelers, who shelled out nearly $36 billion in duty-free stores in 2021. That figure is expected to double by 2029.

Travelers who get the best bang for their buck abroad are those who do a little homework ahead of time, so when they do see a great deal at the airport, they can grab it.

How this guide was created

For this guide, I tapped into the duty-free shopping hacks I’ve honed over the years as a frequent traveler. But I typically don’t pull out my wallet unless there’s an offer or product I know I won’t be able to find elsewhere – or an unbeatable deal.

Case in point: a €55 bottle of my favorite perfume I recently bought at my home airport, Amsterdam Schiphol. I haven’t seen it sold Stateside in years, and it was also about $55 cheaper than what I would have paid retail. An excellent deal (duty free or otherwise), indeed.

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Is Duty-Free Shopping Still a Good Value?

Scott Laird is a freelance travel writer. His work has been published in TravelPulse, TravelAge West, and other publications.

Anybody who’s transited an airport is familiar with the process repeated at airports across the globe each day—travelers clear security, possibly passport control, and then it’s the long and winding road through the duty-free shop. 

Duty-free shopping is big business for airports and retailers, but many travelers might wonder if the gimmick is past its prime in the era of easy-compare internet shopping. Few (if any) goods aren’t available to the U.S. consumer in the modern age, so haven’t duty-free shops outlived their usefulness?

Not quite. 

Because of their position in international airports, duty-free shops can offer travelers significant savings on certain items, and in many cases, offer other items that aren’t available anywhere else. It often takes some research to determine whether you’re getting the best deal, but read on for some tips and pointers on shopping duty-free. 

How Duty-Free Began

Just after World War II, airlines on both sides of the Atlantic took advantage of new longer-range aircraft that had been developed during the war to offer flights between Europe and North America. These early aircraft still required refueling stops, and Shannon Airport, on Ireland’s west coast, became a common refueling point for transatlantic flights. 

Passengers on these flights would step off the aircraft at Shannon, stretch their legs, and the airport’s managers looked for ways to squeeze a few extra shopping dollars out of temporary visitors. They convinced the Irish government to declare the international transit lounge of the airport a tax-free zone. The idea was that passengers departing immediately on an international flight wouldn’t consume their purchases in Ireland and thus shouldn’t pay local taxes. 

The resulting sales boom caught the attention of other airports, which opened duty-free shops of their own. The concept was quickly expanded to provide relief on duties paid on imported goods (since goods purchased immediately before leaving the country aren’t technically imported), which further reduced the sale price of certain items. 

Duty-Free Today

Most duty-free shops at international airports focus their product line on goods typically subject to significant local taxes or import duties. It’s common to find extensive selections of cosmetics, liquor, tobacco, watches, sunglasses, fragrances, and high-end fashion. Many airports will also have entire boutiques from top fashion companies such as Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Prada in their duty-free areas, often run by the same operator.

Duty-free goods are considered “bonded,” meaning taxes haven’t been paid on them, so the inventory must be strictly controlled to ensure only qualifying buyers have access. This often means showing a passport and boarding card at the point of purchase and waiting to collect purchases from a designated trolley brought directly to the aircraft door during boarding.

What To Buy Duty-Free

As a general rule, the best duty-free deals can be found among products that have significant “sin taxes” in the U.S. (generally alcohol and tobacco) or imported items that have import duties attached (virtually all foreign-made luxury goods ranging from watches to cosmetics).

In most cases, savings will be most substantial on higher-ticket items because the taxes and duties imposed on them will also be higher. The savings on a $40 bottle of skin toner might be little more than the local sales tax, while the savings on a $300 tin of imported face cream can be substantial. 

Alcohol is an item where duty-free savings can vary wildly. While not often less expensive than U.S. retail, there can still be value in duty-free alcohol sales. A practical consideration would be that of travelers bound for destinations where alcohol is significantly more expensive than in the U.S.; travelers can simply pick up their favorite bottle at duty-free to make their own cocktails throughout their journey or as a gift for friends or family. Another consideration is that some manufacturers produce limited editions of their products solely for the duty-free market, so shoppers in the market for rare or limited editions of their favorite brands will find them exclusively while traveling internationally.

Duty-free shops also carry sundry goods like locally made chocolates or other food items, but these aren’t really sold as value buys—they’re just relevant products for travelers.

Arrive Early, or Plan in Advance

The key to effective duty-free shopping is comparison pricing. Travelers who are planning to make duty-free purchases should note the item's price at home so that they can quickly determine their savings amount at the duty-free shop. Impulse buyers should arrive at the airport early so they can look up comparable prices while shopping. 

Travelers based in the U.S. should also be careful to consider local taxes when comparison shopping since taxes aren’t included in displayed prices (unlike in Europe, where displayed prices already include tax). Some items may not appear to offer any savings until the sales tax (which isn’t charged in duty-free shops) is considered. 

Of course, many shoppers will simply purchase items they want without considering any cost savings. Duty-free items are typically priced competitively for the global market, but it’s still possible that some items may, in fact, be priced higher than the tax-inclusive price at home, and it’s still wise to check before purchase. 

Customs Considerations

It’s a common misconception that items purchased in duty-free shops are subsequently exempt from customs declarations, which isn’t true. Most countries don’t distinguish between items bought duty-free and those bought duty-paid, and the combined total of all goods (excluding personal items) still counts toward individual import limits. 

Most countries impose a set value limit on the import of goods, and it’s helpful to keep this in mind when shopping. Goods above the limit must be declared at customs on arrival and may be subject to import duties. 

For U.S. travelers, it’s wise to limit significant duty-free purchases to foreign airports. A big-ticket item bought at a U.S. duty-free shop before departure would likely not only be dutiable at the foreign destination but again upon re-entry to the United States (since it was purchased outside the U.S. customs zone). Duty-free shops in the U.S. can be good places to purchase gifts for friends abroad, but travelers should also be aware of duty-free allowances at their destination. 

Travelers must also declare the value of the goods they’re importing. The easiest way to substantiate value is with a receipt, so duty-free receipts should be kept, at least until travelers have cleared the last customs check of their journey. 

Tips for Buying Duty-Free

• Consider the “schlep factor” when buying duty-free, especially with liquid items. Purchases will add weight and bulk to luggage, so it’s worth ensuring any savings aren’t offset by difficulty in packing and transport. 
• Different countries have different restrictions on liquids in carry-on bags. Some will allow liquids that have been sealed in a bag by a duty-free shop with proof of purchase, while in other countries, it may be necessary to move large liquids into checked luggage after clearing customs but before any connecting flights. 
• Pre-order if possible to avoid items being out of stock. Some items are available only via pre-order, and many airlines and airports have dedicated websites. Most limit payment to the time and place of pickup to account for cancellations or reroutes.
• Pay with a credit card that offers purchase protection—many large retailers accept returns on defective merchandise, but it can be difficult. Purchase protection policies offer a layer of security.

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Everything You Need to Know About U.S. Customs and Duty-Free Allowances

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You’ve been out of the country on a much-deserved vacation. About an hour before your plane lands, the flight attendant hands you a U.S. Customs declaration form. Chances are you purchased a few souvenirs or gifts during your travels—so which ones do you have to declare? The answer: Every item you didn’t have with you when you originally left the United States.

You’ll be asked how much you paid for each, including all taxes—so it helps to keep those receipts in an easily accessible place. You may also want to pack all of these items together so that you can find them quickly if you’re chosen for inspection.

You must declare all items you purchased and are carrying with you upon return to the United States, including gifts for other people as well as items you bought for yourself. This includes duty-free items purchased in foreign countries, as well as any merchandise you intend to sell or use in your business.

Contrary to popular belief, purchasing something in a duty-free shop does not necessarily mean you don’t have to pay any duties or taxes on it; the item is only duty-free in the country where you bought it. If the value of the item falls outside your personal exemption (see below), you will have to pay U.S. duties on it.

Register Your Items

To avoid confusion, you might want to register certain items with U.S. Customs before you leave the United States—that way you can prove that you owned an item before you left. This is particularly worth considering for expensive foreign-made items like laptops or watches. You can register the items at the nearest CBP office or at the international airport from which you are departing—just request a Certificate of Registration (CBP Form 4457) and have the items (including serial numbers) handy.

Duty-Free Exemptions

In most cases, travelers are permitted to bring up to $800 worth of merchandise back to the United States without having to pay duty. ( Numerous exceptions apply. ) Keep in mind that only one liter of alcohol, 200 cigarettes, and 100 cigars may be included in this exemption.

Family members who live in the same household and travel together generally may combine personal exemptions. Children and infants have the same exemptions as adults except for alcohol and tobacco products. If you bring back more than your exemption, you will have to pay duties.

Duty-Free and Reduced Rates

Items from certain countries may be duty-free under previously negotiated agreements with the United States government. Typically, items from Caribbean and Andean countries, certain sub-Saharan African countries, Israel, Jordan, Chile, Singapore, Canada, and Mexico are allowed into the United States at a duty-free or reduced rate. However, keep in mind these items still need to be declared when you re-enter the United States.

Also, household effects—such as furniture, paintings, carpets, linens, and similar items—are duty-free if you’ve used them for at least a year while living abroad, and they are not intended to be sold or used as gifts. For more information, see the CBP’s guide to duty-free or reduced rates .

You can take out or bring unlimited “monetary instruments,” as the U.S. Customs folks call cash, money orders, traveler’s checks, and the like, but if you are carrying more than $10,000 worth, you must file a Currency Reporting Form with U.S. Customs.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Some items—such as absinthe, firearms, fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, meat products, and some cultural artifacts—are restricted and will only be admitted into the U.S. under special circumstances. Others, including most drug paraphernalia and items from embargoed countries, are prohibited entirely. Check the CBP’s list of prohibited and restricted items before you leave.

Paying Duty at U.S. Customs

If you owe duty, it must be paid upon arrival in the United States. You may pay with U.S. currency, a personal check drawn on a U.S. bank, or a government check, money order, or traveler’s check (as long as the amount isn’t over $50 more than the duty you owe). Some locations also accept payment with Visa or Mastercard.

Mailing Items from Overseas

Your exemption applies only to those things you have on your person when you return to the United States; if you mail anything back, you’re responsible for paying the duties and taxes on those items separately. For more information, see the CBP’s information on sending items back to the U.S.

More from SmarterTravel:

• The Essential International Packing List
• The Best Way to Carry Money Overseas
• Traveling in a Developing Country: 11 Dos and Don’ts

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Genevieve S. Brown and Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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What does 'duty-free' mean?

If you're like me, you frequently browse the items strategically placed near the checkout lane at grocery stores as you wait in line, asking yourself if you need to add just one more item to your cart.

This idea of buying things you don't necessarily need also runs through my mind frequently at airports thanks to duty-free shops. They entice me with the allure of saving money by shopping sans an import tax on goods transported internationally .

I most recently shopped for duty-free items at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) after spending a week trying to find simple shortbread cookies and plain chocolate for Mother's Day to no avail.

Not only did I find some at the duty-free store in CDG's Terminal 2 , but I also realized if I was getting something for her, I should probably get something for my dad, too. As a result, I bought two boxes of cookies and a chocolate bar.

Whether your next international trip happens to coincide with shopping for a loved one or you just want a preflight snack, here's everything you need to know about duty-free shopping.

What is duty-free shopping?

If you've ever flown internationally, you've likely at least noticed (if not shopped for) duty-free items at the airport while on your way to another country.

In fact, some larger airports, including Heathrow Airport (LHR) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) , have nearly 20 duty-free stores to choose from.

What exactly does "duty-free" mean, though? It all comes down to taxes.

Duty-free stores allow outgoing travelers to shop without being taxed locally, so you can purchase select items without paying a duty so long as you transport them across international borders, per U.S. Customs and Border Protection .

Duty-free stores are typically located in international terminals, though regular terminals with international flights may also offer duty-free options.

Travelers can buy a range of luxury items at these stores, including food, alcohol , tobacco, accessories, fragrances and beauty products. Some of the most common duty-free store brands are Dufry, DFS Group, International Shoppes, Duty Free Americas and World Duty Free.

Along with duty-free stores, you can also shop duty-free at some airport retail stores. For example, the high-end British fashion brand Burberry says that "Items can be purchased tax free in selected airport stores," including at LHR.

Travelers can also purchase duty-free items online from duty-free stores and individual retail outposts. Once they decide which items to purchase, they can choose a reserved time to pick up their order.

How does duty-free shopping work?

To buy duty-free items, locate the duty-free stores at your airport. Most airports list their various shops online. However, you can also search for duty-free shops specifically, as illustrated below with Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) .

Before heading to the duty-free store, be sure to grab your boarding pass since you'll likely be asked to show this as proof that you are departing the country on an upcoming flight.

If you buy liquids at the duty-free store, such as liquor, fragrance or lotions, know that duty-free items are exempt from carry-on liquid limits set by airport agencies, so you can pack larger liquids in your carry-on bag when coming back to the U.S. This is the case even if you have a connecting flight.

To avoid any issues with bringing your items through security, keep each purchase in the tamper-proof plastic bag it's wrapped in by the duty-free store employee until you leave the airport. Hold on to your receipt since you may be asked to show it as proof of your purchase.

Certain countries place purchase caps on select items, such as tobacco and alcohol. They also limit the amount of money you can spend on international purchases without being charged a duty tax.

Currently, Americans can spend up to $800 within 31 days without being taxed for their purchases, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security . To verify duty-free allowances for your particular country, visit the Duty Free Americas website .

Read more: Where are the cheapest duty-free stores? We checked 50 airports to find out

Can duty-free shopping save me money?

Although you can potentially save money by buying duty-free items, how much you may save depends on the specific item and your location.

A 2019 TPG cost comparison of items from duty-free stores at more than 50 airports across six continents concluded that the prices of items at duty-free shops varied by location and sometimes even between different duty-free shops at the same airport.

Overall, it's cheapest to buy alcohol in the Caribbean , cosmetics and fragrances in Europe , and tobacco in Asia , according to the study.

To get the best price possible, do your homework before your trip. Research the prices of similar or identical items at airports with multiple duty-free shops ahead of time. Also, remember to compare those prices to non-duty-free shops.

Don't forget to consider the strength of the U.S. dollar against the local currency where the shop is located. You can do this by using a currency converter such as XE .

If you're traveling to Europe, remember that the duty-free shops are free of a value-added tax, so you can save up to 27%, depending on the country you're visiting.

"The key to a successful duty-free purchase is math. There are some good deals out there, but all too often, I've found that I can get better prices at home," said TPG executive editor Scott Mayerowitz. "Know your prices and exchange rates. Don't be afraid to take out your phone and compare prices with online retailers."

Can you buy duty-free items outside of airports?

In addition to airports, some cruise ships, like Royal Caribbean's new Wonder of the Seas and Norwegian Cruise Line's new Norwegian Prima have duty-free shops on board.

"All bigger ships have stores on board, usually a few, that sell everything from cruise line logo wear to souvenirs," said Gene Sloan, TPG's principal cruise writer.

"Even if not specifically labeled duty-free, they are, in theory, all duty-free in the sense that there is no local tax as long as the ship is at sea in international waters. For this reason, cruise ships will not open their onboard stores until they are out in international waters — so they don't have to collect a tax."

Can you use miles to shop duty-free?

Even though you can use some airline miles at duty-free stores , you'll want to calculate how much value you can get from using miles on flights compared to duty-free items.

For example, you could spend 4,500 Emirates Skywards miles for a $20 credit at a duty-free store at Dubai International Airport (DXB) , which gets you just 0.4 cents per mile, way below TPG's current valuation of Emirates miles at 1.2 cents apiece.

Before redeeming your miles this way, compare that earnings rate to the price of an Emirates flight using Skywards miles versus cash.

For example, you could book a round-trip flight from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) for 45,000 miles plus $141 in taxes or $804 in cash this April. By using miles, you'd get a redemption rate of roughly 1.47 cents per mile, a much higher rate than the duty-free redemption option.

Instead of using your miles for duty-free purchases, you could use them to book an Emirates flight, which is likely to yield more value than using your miles to shop duty-free.

Using your miles to book flights instead of using them to shop duty-free is likely a better deal across airline currencies.

Bottom line

You may ask yourself whether you should shop duty-free before boarding your next international flight home. If you've done the appropriate comparisons and calculations, it should be clear whether it makes sense to buy duty-free based on projected savings.

It may not always make financial sense to buy duty-free items. However, when it does, use a credit card with zero foreign transaction fees when making your purchase. Also, keep in mind how difficult it is to find the item you're hoping to buy.

"I enjoy bringing home liquor, but I know the prices at my local store and if something is a good deal or not," Scott shared. "Usually, I only buy local spirits that I can't find at home. And even then, I need to factor in the hassle of lugging home a bottle or two and risking that it might break along the journey."

If the value you'll gain from buying that item outweighs the inconvenience of bringing it home, it may be worth the investment — even if it requires spending some extra money.

clock This article was published more than  4 years ago

7 tips for more strategic duty-free shopping

Shannon, Ireland , population 10,000, is a great jumping-off point for travelers heading to Limerick or the Cliffs of Moher. It’s also the birthplace of a $68.6 billion industry : duty-free shops. Shannon Airport opened the world’s first such store in 1947, offering people passing through the western part of the country the opportunity to shop without paying taxes before they left.

“To spawn what has become a global, multibillion-dollar industry is something that we’re very proud of,” says Darren Smyth, head of commercial operations at Shannon Airport. “Everybody the world over likes to feel like they’re getting good value.”

What Shannon started became an international phenomenon. Anyone who’s traveled internationally — by plane, cruise, ferry or overland — has probably encountered duty-free shopping. While many travelers are familiar with the concept, it can still be confusing in terms of value. You know you’re not paying local tax on items such as cosmetics, cigarettes, sunglasses and spirits, but is buying goods here really a better deal than elsewhere?

Depends on what you consider a deal. When the Shannon Airport launched duty-free, a lower price thanks to the nixed tax was the key selling point. Today, duty-free shopping’s appeal is more complex. Now that we can comparison-shop for deals online for just about anything, duty-free shops had to come up with new ways to entice customers. Here’s what you need to know before you head to the airport.

8 unexpected and delightful ways to pass time at airports across the United States

The real savings are in alcohol.

The best deals at duty-free will depend on the taxes where you live; the higher the tax on a product, the better the deal at duty-free. Around the world, “sin taxes” tend to be a common practice, making “sinful” products your best buy.

“The heaviest-taxed areas of all our lives are things like liquor and tobacco products,” says Tony Richardson, founder of Duty Free Hunter , an online shopping guide for travelers. “They naturally are going to have the biggest savings, because you’re escaping either duty or sales tax, or both, depending on the regime in a particular country.”

Sales of booze at duty-free stores are so strong that companies will send brand ambassadors to airports to hold tastings and food-pairing sessions to get more eyes on their merch. Mumbai Duty Free, at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, even hosts an annual whiskey week.

“Every shop now, they are trying to create a bit of an experience as well,” Richardson says. “What we’ve seen in the industry is the retailers and the big brands trying to create a sort of unmissable factor.”

If you’re in the market for makeup, look for freebies.

Cosmetics brands sweeten deals by creating special travel-size versions of popular items or offering freebies with your purchase as a perk, Smyth says. Your standard-size lipstick may cost about what you’d pay at home, but at duty-free, the brand may throw in an extra gift.

“It’s useful in terms of maximizing the value at a duty-free,” Smyth says.

The sales associates will be the most up-to-date on brand promotions, so ask them about potential gifts with purchase before you start browsing. You can also go online to Duty Free Hunter or, for travelers going to the U.K. or Germany, World Duty Free , to find news on travel retail sales.

Find items you can’t buy anywhere else, especially spirits.

For some brands, making limited-edition items available only in duty-free stores is a way to reel in new and existing customers.

“What you’ve seen more and more is the use of exclusives,” Richardson says. “There will be certain perfumes or drinks brands in particular that you can only get when you travel. Johnnie Walker will create a whiskey that is only available in certain airports, so that way they’re giving travelers a reason to make sure they go in the shop.”

Spirits brands, for example, may release multi-bottle series for these stores to tempt spirits connoisseurs. Like playing Pokémon, you may be compelled to try to catch them all.

“The idea for now is that we need to offer passengers something different that you can’t ordinarily get,” says Manjot Riyait, head of marketing for Global Travel Retail at William Grant & Sons Global Brands, the independent spirits company responsible for brands such as Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Hendrick’s gin. For collectors who already have staples from a spirits company’s core range, scoring a bottle at duty-free you can’t get at liquor stores, such as the Balvenie Triple Cask range, can be a huge win.

Booze companies aren’t the only ones to make moves like this. Cosmetics companies and fashion labels are also known to release travel-retail exclusives. For example, the French fashion brand Chloé just released a four-piece capsule collection for DFS, a luxury travel retailer with duty-free shops in 11 major airports.

Candy is a nice present, but you won’t save cash on it.

Even though sweets make up a large chunk of real estate in duty-free stores, it’s not there because it’s a fantastic deal only found past the security checkpoint.

“With confectionery, there isn’t a huge saving, because the price points are much smaller,” Richardson says.

He says prices on sweets will vary where you go around the world due to local market factors, so you may be able to find Toblerone cheaper than you would at home. The biggest perk of buying desserts at duty-free is that it’s an easy last-minute gift idea. Many candy brands will stock the shops with packages that are ready to be presented as gifts.

Take advantage of international brands you can’t find at home.

Duty-free stores study their customer base’s demographics and fill their shelves with items curated to appeal to groups traveling through certain airports. That means fliers may encounter products they wouldn’t normally at their hometown mall.

“You might see Asian brands that you can’t get anywhere else in America, but you can get them at the San Francisco airport, because there’s a demographic traveling through there that they need to service,” Richardson says.

Skip the sunglasses.

As with chocolates and candy, the most persuasive case for shopping for sunglasses at the airport is the convenience. If you forgot your Ray-Bans at home while en route to Cancun, at least you can get some before you hop on the plane. Richardson isn’t sold on buying shades at duty-free for cost purposes, though, saying there’s no massive bargain.

“You may get exclusive lines, but they’ll be minimal in terms of saving,” he says. “If you dig around on the Internet, I would think you’d find them for the same sort of price.”

Research, because some items may not be cheaper at duty-free at all.

Retailers may offer higher discounts in some markets than in others. For example, a bottle of Lagavulin 16-year-old Scotch whisky at Singapore’s Changi Airport runs for the equivalent of about $90 U.S. , while it can be had for only $60 U.S. at London Heathrow . Sometimes prices vary within a single airport. According to findings from the Points Guy’s research , duty-free prices may even differ from terminal to terminal. If you have time before your flight, it may be in your best interest to compare prices among different concourses. But calculating whether an item at duty-free is less expensive than it is elsewhere is a complicated dance.

“Trying to compare savings between, say, Singapore and New York is near impossible, because there are so many factors at play,” Richardson says. “It has so much to do with where you’re shopping in the world.”

If you have brands in mind you’re hoping to shop for at the airport, Smyth recommends taking the time to note how much you normally pay for those brands before you leave for your trip.

“Do research and give yourself time to understand what the offer is. Then you can maximize the value,” Smyth says.

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What Is Duty-Free Shopping? Here's What to Know Before Your Next Trip

Are the savings actually worth it?

How much can you save at a duty-free store?

What to buy and what to skip.

But what is duty-free shopping, and why do so many people make it a point to stop at these airport stores when they travel abroad? This is what you need to know about duty-free stores, so you can indulge strategically (and tax-free) before your next flight. Bon voyage and bon vivant!

What are duty-free stores?

Duty-free stores are retail outlets found in international airports, seaports, and train stations. These shops typically operate in designated areas beyond the customs and immigration checkpoints, where travelers can shop without paying the local or excise taxes that are imposed on goods.

“Duty-free options can also be used by people who frequently travel between countries with different exchange rates or taxation policies,” says Nadia Podrabinek, founder and CEO of Why This Place . “It allows them to purchase products without changing their currency or worrying about paying additional taxes when bringing the item back home.” For example, if you are traveling from a country with high taxes on alcohol to a country with lower taxes on it, you can save by purchasing it at a duty-free store.

Some of the items most commonly found at duty-free retailers are fragrances , beauty products , tech gadgets , high-end liquors, chocolates, and designer watches and jewelry. The availability of certain brands and goods may vary depending on the airport.

The key benefit of shopping at duty-free stores is the potential savings, which can vary depending on the product and the country you are traveling to or from.

“By avoiding certain taxes and duties, purchasing from a duty-free shop can save you about 20-30% compared to regular retail prices,” says Yulia Safutdinova, founder of the travel tips blog Miss Tourist . In general, the savings can be substantial for items with high local taxes.

“It really depends on what you are buying, how much you are spending, and where you are going,” says Nathan Russo, Director of Operations at Destin Vacation Rentals.“Don’t assume that you’re saving money on buying a super expensive bottle of duty-free wine, for example, as you may get back to the U.S. and find that you now owe a hefty tax on it,” he adds.

The amount of alcohol you buy from a duty-free shop particularly matters. According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website , “Alcoholic beverages purchased in duty-free shops are subject to duty and federal excise taxes when accompanying you into the United States ... Generally, one liter of alcohol per person may be entered into United States duty-free by travelers who are 21 years or older.” Keep in mind that state laws and regulations vary widely, and they may be more restrictive than federal regulations.

Note that not all products sold at duty-free stores are cheaper than those sold at regular retailers. In some cases, the prices may be the same or even higher. It's a good idea to check the websites of the airports you'll be traveling out of for information on their duty-free goods — you may be able to compare the prices of certain products beforehand and determine where it makes the most sense for you to buy them.

What to buy or avoid largely depends on your personal preferences and travel plans. “Liquor and tobacco often provide the best value for money in duty-free shops, as these products tend to have significant price differences versus other stores,” says Safutdinova. “Luxury fashion items, including designer clothing, handbags, and accessories can also be good buys in certain countries,” she adds.

“Anything mass-produced or widely available domestically, such as most cosmetics, electronics, and basic chocolate brands, can usually be skipped,” says Safutdinova. This is because markups in airport stores often counteract any duty savings on these items.

Likewise, duty-free stores may not offer substantial savings on non-luxury items, as they might be similarly priced to regular retailers or online shops. And, while duty-free stores offer a wide range of international brands, they might not always feature local products or unique souvenirs that you can find while traveling.

Know Your Duty-Free Exemption

Upon returning to the U.S., you’re required to fill out a form claiming any products obtained from outside the country. This includes duty-free items. You can save money if the value of the items does not exceed the duty-free exemption.

Also called the personal exemption, the duty-free exemption is the total value of merchandise you may bring back to the United States without having to pay duty. You may bring back more than your exemption, but you will have to pay duty on it. In most cases, the personal exemption is $800, but there are exceptions to this rule.

Jon Patrick Hatcher is a nonfiction author and the creator of The Teen Anxiety Guidebook , Anxiety Hacks for an Uncertain World , and 101 Ways to Conquer Teen Anxiety , which was awarded one of the best panic books of all time by BookAuthority. He also writes a self-help humor column on Psychology Today titled State of Anxiety . Jon can be reached via his authoring site at JonPatrickHatcher.com .

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Duty Free: Is It a Good Deal?

W hen you're traveling internationally, duty-free shops may beckon. These brightly lit, beautifully displayed retailers are stocked with all kinds of things you may want to bring home.

Because these stores sell items that are exempt from certain taxes, the prices should be lower than if you were to buy them elsewhere. At least, that’s the idea.

But do the items at duty-free shops really cost less? That depends on where you are and what you buy. Note that prices and exchange rates can fluctuate daily, so listed equivalents may change slightly.

How Duty-Free Shops Work

Import, value-added and sales taxes – aka duty – are imposed on imported and exported products. A duty-free shop, therefore, sells things without adding those taxes to the price. You'll find duty-free shops in international airports, cruise ships and areas where tourists congregate.

As a U.S. citizen you can purchase from any of them, up to a limit. In general, you can buy up to $800 worth of items at these stores within a 31-day time frame.

Once back in the U.S., you'll need to complete a customs form to declare your purchases. If you exceed the limit you'll have to pay duties on the excess.

Is Duty Free Cheaper? 

Outside of convenience, you may be compelled to shop at at a duty-free store for its value. When the taxes aren’t added, the prices are typically lower than places where duty is included.

While duty free can translate into better prices, it doesn't always.

"Some products may be cheaper outside of the duty-free environment, especially if they are subject to heavy import taxes,” Scott Poniewaz, head of travel and lifestyle benefits company EXEC, says.

"While this might seem like you’re getting a good deal, it's important to research and compare prices beforehand to ensure that you're actually getting a bargain,” he adds.

Here are the most commonly purchased duty-free items and their price differences at the time of publishing:

According to a 2022 YouGov poll , 21% of American consumers buy spirits and liqueurs at duty-free shops, so y our first stop may be the booze aisl e. But is duty-free alcohol cheaper?

Consider a liter bottle of Grey Goose vodka. At the Dufry Shop in Milan, it will cost you €57.00 (around $62.14) but at Total Wine & More that same bottle is $42.99.

While you're in the Caribbean, you may want to bring back some rum. At the Piarco International Airport, Trinidad and Tobago duty-free shop a 750-milliliter bottle of Bacardi 8 Yr rum is priced at $25. At BevMo, it’s currently $25.99.

“I’ll get things like whisky in the Caribbean because it can be cheaper,” Derek Sall, founder and financial expert at LifeAndMyFinances, says.“But I always look up the prices first to make sure. Hop on your phone and see what it costs at home.”

Just be aware that comparing and contrasting prices isn’t always easy. Sizes can differ. A bottle may be available only in a 1-liter size at the airport, for example, but domestic retailers can carry larger or smaller versions.

Cigarettes are definitely something to pick up at a duty-free store. A 100-box carton of Marlboros can be yours for $62 at San Jose, California's Mineta International Airport, while at a California Kroger it’s $86.40.

Seeking celebratory cigars? A 54-count box of Cohiba Behike is $607.99 online at Duty Free Pro but if you were to order the same box at Cuban Cigar Online it would cost you $1,214.

Perfume and Cosmetics

The YouGov poll found 22% of consumers buy fragrance products and 17% buy skin care items at duty-free stores – and for good reason. A 200-milliliter bottle of Dior Homme Cologne at the Edinburgh Dufry is £104.25 ($114.19) while at Sephora the same bottle is $175.00.

It’s hard to pass up the beauty sections at duty-free stores because the deals can be excellent. If you've been wanting to treat yourself to a Chanel N°1 De Chanel Revitalizing Eye Cream, it's £49.70 ($54.44) at the UK Dufry. Stock up, because it's $80 at the Chanel store.

Designer Bags and Accessories 

Lusting over the Ferragamo Studio bag? Be careful. At the DFS store in Sydney it will run you AUD 3,990.91 (around $2,700) but at the designer’s store the same bag is $2,451.

Interested in designer sunglasses? A pair of Gucci aviators are €325 ($355.95) at the Madrid Duty Free but $450 if you were to pick them up at the Gucci store.

Electronics

Oh no, you’ve lost your headphones in India! You may be tempted to head over to the duty-free shop at the Mumbai International Airport and pick up a pair of Sennheiser Momentum Free Bluetooth Headphones for 18,100 rupees ($220.70). But they’re only $129.00 on Amazon, so so consider having them sent to you.

“When it comes to electronics, you may find that duty-free shops have a great selection available,” Poniewaz says.

“So, while it can be tempting to splurge while there, I advise approaching this with a bit of caution before you make a purchase. Research the specific model and compare prices with other retailers. Sometimes you can find better deals outside of duty-free shops or online," he adds.

Problems can also arise if you want to return or exchange an item. You're often better off buying electronics from a chain store so you can access customer service outside the airport if necessary.

Sweets and Snacks

According to the YouGov poll, 27% of American consumers are likely to buy chocolates and candies from duty-free stores. But you're usually better off getting them elsewhere.

“Everyday consumer goods may not necessarily provide substantial savings at duty-free shops,” Sall says. “In fact, sometimes they may even be more expensive.”

Case in point: The Godiva Gold Rigid Box is €45.10 ($49.38) at the Brussels South Charleroi Airport Shop, but a comparable box at Macy’s is $34. So, if you’re bringing it home as a gift you may as well wait and hit the local mall.

How to Buy Duty-Free Items 

If you do want to purchase something from a duty-free store, you can got to the brick-and-mortar location and shop around or buy it online from a company like WorldDutyFree.

If the price is right at the actual store, you can enter your departure location, reserve the item you want (the store will hold it for for you for anywhere from 24 hours to 30 days), then pay in the store and collect your purchase. Note that you'll have to show the cashier your travel documents, such as your boarding pass and your passport.

Consider Duty-Free Alternatives

Elyse Glickman is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel writer who says she'll buy from a duty-free shop under two circumstances: when she knows the item isn’t available elsewhere and in emergencies.

“The savings aren’t usually that great compared to department stores but they can be a lifesaver when your purse or bag rips,” she says. “If I don’t have time to shop, I’ll take advantage of them.”

In other circumstances, Glickman suggests supporting local businesses instead.

“You can find something really special to bring home, such as jewelry and clothing that you can’t find anywhere else,” she says.

She also says to consider buying more standard items at a city’s department stores for comparable prices, which can be even lower during sales season.

Poniewaz agrees, encouraging travelers to explore regional markets, boutiques and shopping districts instead.

“They often provide a more diverse and authentic shopping experience ," he says. “These places may offer unique products, local craftsmanship and better prices compared with duty-free shops."

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Imperial Duty Free builds on dominant position in Moscow market with ambitious Sheremetyevo store openings

RUSSIA. Imperial Duty Free, the joint venture between Sheremetyevo Airport and Gebr Heinemann, today inaugurated an impressive walk-through store alongside a new fashion accessories, watches & jewellery concept at Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport Terminal E.

The partners also revealed a series of new stores in the recently opened domestic Terminal B.

“I would say it’s the best shop I have ever seen in travel retail.” – Claus Heinemann

Imperial Duty Free said it aimed to set a new standard for travel retailing in Russia, with Gebr. Heinemann Co-Owner Claus Heinemann even claiming that Terminal E “is the best store I have seen in travel retail.”

Claus Heinemann said: “Imperial Duty Free JSC has established itself as a reliable and competent duty free operator at Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport since 2014, and we are very proud of our long- term, fair partnership with the airport.

“For us, the expansion of our joint travel retail operations represents a great confirmation of our entrepreneurial commitment in Russia, which we will continue to develop in future.”

He added: “We have invested heavily but it is justified by the sales we have made from international as well as Russian passengers.”

Sheremetyevo International Airport Chairman Alexander Ponomarenko hailed the collaboration with Heinemann since 2013, noting its “great experience in the market”. He said: “The result of our joint project is a world-class duty free area that consistently exceeds general expectations of a conventional duty free store.

“We hope that the new duty free shopping area will be positively perceived by the passengers, making our partnership with Heinemann a role model for international duty free ventures. And right now we start designing of a duty free area in the new Terminal C, which will be commissioned [opened] in December 2019.”

In Terminal E, all four existing shops (the main duty free store, the fashion accessories & watches/jewellery boutique, plus a Swarovski boutique and a kids’ shop) were fully redesigned in four stages while operations continued.

With the integration of additional space in the terminal, the retailer has expanded its floor area by around +80%. Imperial Duty Free said the store had already driven greater passenger interest and a rise in turnover. The company said it expects to deliver double-digit sales growth over time, driven by increased average spend.

The extended space has benefited P&C in particular, which accounts for around 50% of the business (spirits & wines are around 30%, with luxury and other categories at 20%). Beauty now occupies space to the left on the walk-through journey. Fragrances are the big driver of the category, followed by skincare (which is growing fast) and make-up.

Among the highlights are stunning Chanel and Dior installations towards the front, impressive back wall displays from Estée Lauder, Lancôme, YSL, Clarins, Shiseido, Guerlain and others, plus a large area dedicated to niche luxury fragrances, which are immensely popular among Russian shoppers.

Key brands here include Kilian, Atelier Cologne, Memo, Moresque, Byredo and Clive Christian. An important feature is that many brands have introduced their full high-end and exclusive ranges to meet the demand among Russian travellers. Duty free prices are around -15-20% below the Russian domestic market in fragrances, offering a strong hook for local travellers.

Alongside P&C, highlights include an impressive vodka collection led by premium brands such as Beluga, Baikal and Koskenkorva, with a growing single malts offer central to a well-ranged whisky and Cognac selection. A broad wine offer sourced by Heinemann includes Russian and international brands. Caviar is well situated between luxury spirits and Champagnes, with impulse ranges from tech to travel accessories to confectionery and destination goods close to the tills.

Crucially, the high ceilings, wide aisles, use of suspended lights and uniformly low fixture heights mean there is excellent visibility throughout, and easy navigation.

Beyond the main walk-through, the stand-out feature is the redeveloped multibrand concept for fashion & accessories and watches & jewellery, across 760sq m, with an additional 70sq m for sunglasses (soon to be expanded). Major brands here include Cartier, Coach, Furla, MCM, Ferragamo, Tumi, Bulgari, Montblanc, Etro and Pinko in the accessories zone.

Hublot, IWC, JaegerLeCoultre as well as luxury jewellery brands are represented in a dedicated shop embedded in the luxury area. The design (led by Plajer + Franz) aims to evoke a department store look, with three wall boutiques and a see-through environment.

A diamond pattern concept resembles the structure of the precious stone, with materials such as brass, oiled white oak and Italian terrazzo stone giving a luxury finish. The concept offers brands the opportunity for personalised furniture on the sales floor. In the central area, flexibility is also key, enabling new themes or styles to be curated at short intervals.

The fashion & accessories/watches & jewellery concept will be rolled out to other Heinemann locations internationally, starting in the coming months.

Of the Terminal E store, Heinemann Executive Director Purchasing & Logistics Kay Spanger said: “It is a brilliant concept with a very good mix. The advantage is that it appears as one shop, like a single shopping world, rather than separate areas, and it’s impressively done for that size. P&C carries a strong emphasis on niche luxury perfumes, which are keeping that category’s momentum growing – although these brands are not really niche in Russia.

“In spirits we see a good performance from vodka, and we see a trend towards luxury whisky, including malts, in the past 18 months. “The growth will come from fashion & accessories here, helped by the nice design and some new thinking about how to treat these categories.”

He added: “We didn’t get all brands in, but we’re happy with those we have. Normally we have brands that demand a 100sq m space to come in but we didn’t have that to offer. So we developed a concept that works with a nice atmosphere, a good level of personalisation, and it’s in many ways more pleasant than other boutique environments you see in airports that can be intimidating for the traveller.”

Director Purchase Watches & Jewellery Olaf Benjamin and Director Purchase Fashion Accessories Jan Richter explained the thinking behind the new design. He said: “The idea was to create a Sheremetyevo-Heinemann frame and not just have brand after brand personalised, one next to the other. We wanted a different atmosphere and experience for the customer. There is an opportunity with the wall boutiques for those brands, and in the centre we have good exposure for brands, but the opportunity to change them if we need because the space is flexible.”

“We wanted to create a department store feel. We visited the biggest and best to seek inspiration” – Jan Richter

Benjamin said: “We will roll this design out globally but this one is very much focused on Russia market, It is a very light look, with a high level of luxury and use of local materials.” Reducing the intense focus on personalisation brought its own challenges.

Richter said: “Some brands were unsure about it up front, though they are now convinced. It was not easy as some wanted more personalisation, especially in the wall stores. What we decided was that they could not personalise the facades. We said this is our façade and our store so they would have to stand out in other ways. And their branding and offer has done this.”

Sunglasses features as a stand-alone space, with easy access and eye-catching wood fixturing. Richter noted: “We wanted to create a department store feel. We visited the biggest and best to seek inspiration and said ‘let’s bring that experience to the airport. Previously, although sunglasses performed well here, they did so in small space. Now there is 70sq m and we will extend that further and that should increase turnover.”

Adding to the theme, Spanger said: “You can play the categories in different ways in this space. Sunglasses is commercial but has a classy look. It’s not distant, it invites you to try them on, but it’s a different sell to most other shops.”

New Terminal B, new retail look

In Terminal B, opened in May for domestic flights by Aeroflot, among others, the joint venture has opened ten new shops. These include a vast core category tax-paid store that leans heavily on P&C (it cannot sell liquor or tobacco), a large multi-brand fashion boutique, stand-alone boutiques for Max Mara, Hugo Boss, Paul & Shark and CK Underwear, a Traveller concept, a children’s store plus a gate shop and arrivals shop.

Terminal B is unlike most other domestic terminals. It features a stripped back look with utilities exposed on the roof, and a flexible design that is not over-populated with retail or services, allowing the airport flexibility to alter the offer fast if needed.

Claus Heinemann said: “I’ve never seen a domestic terminal with so many international brands. It shows the real potential of domestic flights from Sheremetyevo, and its wonderful shopping environment. We also offer prices lower than those on domestic markets, although it is duty paid, and that adds value for the shopper.”

Kay Spanger said later: “You cannot compare this to other domestic terminals. It’s like an international airside environment, and offers potential for other such terminals. Let’s not forget that domestic is also travel retail, and you can capture the traveller by offering them tasteful design with a great offer and prices.” He noted that some brands were sceptical about the opportunity at first.

“Many said that they would not appear in a domestic terminal but once some of the big brands came, more followed. Look around: it’s better than many downtown environments. We have found the right mix we feel.”

The stores have already delivered unexpectedly strong spends, said Heinemann. Commenting on the Russian traveller, the company noted in its press release to accompany the openings: “The currency turbulence in recent years has affected the purchasing behaviour of Russian passengers who are essentially happy to spend money and who have a taste for luxury. They have become more demanding and price-focused, and they compare prices with those of the domestic market.

“The new concept in Terminal B has shown that domestic travellers are also willing to make purchases before they fly – if the offer and atmosphere are attractive enough. The new brands in the fashion & accessories area have been particularly well received and make up for the ban on the sale of alcohol and tobacco for domestic flights.”

“It’s a great example of Russian-German collaboration and of what we can achieve”  – Claus Heinemann

The Chinese are another key demographic at Sheremetyevo, accounting for the highest average spends. Heinemann noted: “In Aeroflot’s business strategy, Sheremetyevo is seen as an important hub between Europe and Asia. For that reason, alongside Russian passengers, Asians are also among the main target group. Their willingness to spend above average make them shoppers with particularly high potential. At the same time, Asian customers are very focused on price and compare the prices in duty free shops with alternative offers online, which is why attractive prices need to be the focus.”

Alongside other initiatives to boost spend, Imperial Duty Free at Moscow Sheremetyevo will join the loyalty programme Heinemann & Me from October.

The role of duty free

During a tour of the stores, Ponomarenko told The Moodie Davitt Report that duty free was a vital driver of revenues. He said: “The share of duty free within our consolidated revenues is around 27%. But most important for us is to ensure the comfort of the passengers. We do it for their pleasure. One of the goals was to create a unique atmosphere so people don’t think they are in an airport.”

The next phase of development, as noted above, is the planned opening of a new Terminal C by December 2019, with capacity for 20 million passengers. This will include over 2,500sq m of retail space, with around 400sq m allocated to arrivals duty free. Beyond that will come Terminal C2 by around 2022, and a further terminal later.

The airport company said it expects traffic to double to around 80 million within the next decade. Last year Sheremetyevo handled 40 million, a surge of +17.8% year-on-year, buoyed by the expansion and fleet investment of core user Aeroflot.

Imperial Duty Free management was upbeat about the outlook for the business. Director Sales Eastern Europe & Central Asia Bernard Schlafstein said that arrivals duty free was expected to be up and running early in 2019, though the timeframe is not fixed. This follows legislation passed earlier this year to introduce the channel.

Imperial Duty Free management estimated that arrivals could add around +15% to revenues. Claus Heinemann said: “I’m very proud and overwhelmed with what we have achieved here. It’s a great honour for me to be here to open this wonderful shopping environment. It is at a high international standard for shopping. Not only that: I would say it’s the best shop I have ever seen and that is why I’m extremely proud.

“To have so many international brands is testament to the great success of our partnership here. We have achieved strong growth in turnover but also in developing new shops. It’s a great example of Russian-German collaboration and of what we can achieve.

“There are ups and downs in this market. It is changing all the time so you have to be flexible but having the right partner helps. We expect a strong uplift in the business. Even at times when the Rouble not strong, Russians still spend a lot.”

He concluded: “This is only the beginning. We have great projects planned together and believe in the long-term future of Sheremetyevo as a strong international hub. The outlook here is very positive.”

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2. Enter flight details

To provide you with your reservation on time, you must enter your flight date and flight number when placing your order. Will then send you a confirmation email with all the pickup information.

With our new service "Click & Collect as non-travellers", you can order selected items of the brand Steiff sold by he retailer Wöllhaf or electronics sold by PAX Airport Shopping even withour a flight ticket. The collection takes place at Germany & More before the security check.

3. Pay and collect

On the day of your flight, your order will be ready for you at the Duty Free Store at the service point. At PAX Airport Shopping, Germany & More and Germany On My Mind, your order will be ready at the checkout. After quick payment on the spot, you can take your order directly with you and enjoy your flight.

Do you have questions? We invite you to consult our  FAQs  or contact our  customer service .

Delivery within Germany

Currently we only deliver Duty Free and Travel Value products within Germany. If you don’t have a place of residence in Germany, you can also have them delivered to your hotel or the address of a friend or acquaintance. The only prerequisites are:

✓  Payment by credit card or Paypal

✓  Delivery to an address in Germany

After an order is placed, it takes about three to six workdays for it to be delivered.

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Duty Free/Travel Value

• Passengers & Visitors
• At the airport

A souvenir of your trip

Are you looking for something special to take home to friends and family? Then drop by the MyDutyFree Shop. The overwhelming selection of spirits, wine, champagne, perfumes, cosmetics, toys, accessories and numerous luxury goods of international brands are available at discounted duty-free prices. There's something for everyone!

Home Delivery

With our national delivery service you can have your purchases from these shops delivered conveniently throughout Germany.

• Area Behind security check
• Street Terminalstr. West
• Zip code / City 85356  München-Flughafen
• Telephone +49 89 975 844 44
• Email [email protected]
• Opening hours Mon 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Tue 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Thu 7:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Fri 7:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
• Payments Cash, GiroCard, Credit card, Mobile Payment, Contactless Payment
• Opening hours Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun 6:00 a.m. - 9:15 p.m. Fri 5:00 a.m. - 9:15 p.m. Sat 6:00 a.m. - 8:45 p.m.

Shops, restaurants & services

World of shopping, restaurants, bars and cafés, facilities & services, parking at munich airport.

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Shopping at Memmingen Airport

Travel value & duty free.

Directly after the security check, the Travel Value & Duty Free Shop invites you to go on a real shopping spree. Regardless of your destination, you can obtain a large part of the extensive international range at significantly reduced duty-free prices. The range includes: perfumes & cosmetics, spirits, wines & sparkling wine, Bavarian beers, confectionery, soft drinks, cigarettes, pharmacy items, souvenirs, sunglasses, bags & small leather goods, travel guides, newspapers & magazines and toys. Passengers travelling out of the EU or flying to the Canary Islands can buy duty-free cigarettes at low prices in store.

All customers, regardless of airline, are allowed to take a large shopping bag from the duty-free shop on board free of charge in addition to their hand luggage.

Pre-orders & Info: Phone: + 49 8331 9725 599

Shop & Collect Service

Do you often find yourself running out of space in your hand luggage and still want to buy something? Then use the free Shop & Collect service from our Travel Value Shop. Shop at your leisure before departure and pick up a receipt at the information desk after landing. We look forward to welcoming you!

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Sheremetyevo Duty Free Shopping - Moscow Forum

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Sheremetyevo Duty Free Shopping

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I'll be travelling through Sheremetyevo Monday night/Tuesday morning. Does anyone know the business hours for the Duty Free Shops in Terminal F? I'm arriving around 2230 Monday night.

At least some shops are open 7/24. You can walk freely between terminals D, E and F by the way.

http://www.svo.aero/en/shops/2/

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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