I was flying home from France and had a couple of hours to kill at the airport. As I strolled through the terminal, I was looking for something to buy or rather what should I not buy. It amazed me of the variety of items that are for sale at an airport. I have been in airports where you can a Hugo Boss or Brooks Brother and the Detroit Airport you can buy all the Spanx you will ever need. I always wonder who buys these items?
Here is my list of items that you should
Food and Drinks: Airport food is notoriously overpriced and often of questionable quality. If you are hungry, pack snacks or grab a meal before you arrive at the airport. I never travel without packing some food for a trip. It is much harder to bring a beverage through security. In fact, unless you freeze the beverage, you can not bring in any liquid over 3 ounces. So, you may be forced to buy a drink unless you have a water bottle that you fill at one of the water stations.
Electronics: I love looking at electronics and airports sell everything from laptops to headphones. You should be able to find better deals online or at regular retail stores. I can see buying a last minute headphone or charger to make your flight and stay more enjoyable.
Souvenirs: Airport souvenirs can be overpriced and often tacky. If you are looking for a souvenir from your destination, wait until you are in the city and shop at local markets or stores. If, however, you are coming back from a business trip and you need a gift for you kids, airport souvenirs are always a good bet.
Luggage: Airport luggage shops often have limited selection and inflated prices. It is usually better to purchase your luggage in advance or online. A better option is to bring a collapsible bag that you use if you buy too many things on your trip.
Travel-Sized Toiletries: Airport convenience stores often sell travel-sized toiletries at a premium. It is much cheaper to buy these items in bulk at a drugstore or grocery store before your trip. You just need to plan.
Currency Exchange: Airport currency exchange kiosks often have poor exchange rates. It is better to exchange currency at a bank or ATM before your trip. Even if you do go to a bank or AAA beforehand, they will not offer you best exchange rate. It is often best to charge your purchases or withdraw cash directly from a European Bank with you USA debit card. You can also look at opening a Wise Account.
Magazines and Newspapers: Airport newsstands can charge a premium for magazines and newspapers. If you are still buying print material, you need to look yourself in the mirror to see if you are at retirement age. Time to download all these things onto a tablet or your computer. In fact, with airline Wi-Fi, you can just read almost anything in the air.
You should remember that Airports are laid out especially with Duty Free to promote the products and services offered by their stores. They are trying to get you to buy something that may be overpriced or you do not need. With a little planning, you can avoid the overpriced airport stores and you will not feel as guilty wasting you money on other things!!