20 Things You Should Never Buy At the Airport
Between frantic sprints to catch your flight and the stress of security lines, airports have mastered the art of catching travelers at their most vulnerable moments. Weary passengers, armed with credit cards and time to kill, often fall prey to convenience purchases that drain their wallets faster than a plane reaching cruising altitude.
Your holiday budget deserves better than the marked-up merchandise lurking in terminal shops and kiosks. From overpriced bottles of water to currency exchange services that slash your spending power, knowing what to avoid at airports can save you hundreds on your next journey – whether you’re flying domestic or international. Join us as we navigate the hidden costs of airport spending and discover smart ways to keep your travel budget flying high.
Perfumes and Cosmetics
Those fancy perfume bottles and makeup displays at duty-free shops can be hard to resist. The shiny packaging and “tax-free” promises might seem like a great deal when you’re killing time before your flight.
But here’s the truth: even without taxes, airport prices are usually pumped up way higher than your local beauty store. You’re better off waiting for sales at Sephora or other retailers, where you’ll find the same products for much less – and have time to actually think about what you want.
Neck Pillows and Blankets
We’ve all been there – spotting those fluffy neck pillows and cozy-looking blankets at airport shops when comfort seems worth any price. But don’t let pre-flight anxiety trick you into dropping $30 on a pillow that’ll go flat before takeoff.
Save yourself some cash and pack your own comfort kit instead. A soft scarf from home works perfectly as a blanket, and quality travel pillows from your local store cost half as much. Your neck – and your wallet – will thank you later.
Souvenirs
Those “I Love Paris” shirts and tiny Eiffel Tower keychains at airport shops might seem like your last chance to grab a memory, but don’t fall for it. These generic souvenirs are usually marked up three times higher than what you’d find in the city you just visited.
Take time during your actual trip to hunt for meaningful keepsakes at local markets and neighborhood shops. You’ll find authentic treasures that tell a real story – and leave with more cash to plan your next adventure.
Headphones and Earbuds
Forgot your trusty headphones at home? We’ve all been there! Those shiny earbuds at the airport shop might catch your eye, but their prices will make your jaw drop. Airport vendors know they’ve got you cornered when you’re desperate for some in-flight tunes.
Here’s the deal: airport electronics are marked up like crazy, especially headphones and earbuds. Save yourself from buyer’s remorse and grab a cheap pair from a nearby convenience store, or just use the airline’s complimentary ones for now. Trust us, your wallet will be much happier!