Travelling is a great way to escape the daily grind and simply relax in an incredible destination. It takes you on a journey where you can broaden your perspective of the world by trying new experiences, visiting famous landmarks, and socialising with the locals. As such, you want your trip to be as smooth as possible so that you can thoroughly enjoy it at your own pace.
However, sometimes things may not always go your way while travelling. During the last few hours before your flight back home, for example, you might be struck by last-minute airport shopping woes that can put a sour note in your entire experience. With a limited shopping time and plenty of stores to explore, the situation might overwhelm you and you may even end up not buying anything at all—which can further add to your frustrations.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to make your last-minute airport shopping experience stress-free. Here are some top tips you should consider.
Be Ready with Your Boarding Pass
Before you start shopping for things last minute, make sure that you have your boarding pass readily accessible. Having your boarding pass handy will save you a lot of time and hassle at the checkout counters, especially if you're purchasing items that require verification of your travel itinerary, like duty-free goods or items eligible for tax refunds.
Make it a habit to keep your boarding pass in a convenient location, such as a dedicated pocket in your hand-carry luggage or stored electronically on your smartphone. This will help you streamline the shopping process and avoid unnecessary delays.
Have a Clear Idea of What You’re Looking For
Time is of the essence when it comes to last-minute airport shopping, which is why it’s important to have a clear idea of what you need or want to buy before visiting any shop. Having a list or mental checklist will help you stay focused and efficient, ensuring that you make the most of your time and budget while exploring the airport shops. It can be extra helpful to make a list of priority items based on your travel itinerary and immediate needs. This list can include toiletries, snacks for the journey home, or souvenirs for your loved ones. When you are flying with kids it is nice to get them some treats to keep them happy on the plane.
Get Snacks and Souvenirs the Destination Is Known For
Speaking of snacks and souvenirs, one of the perks of last-minute airport shopping is the opportunity to pick up unique items that reflect the destination you're visiting. This can be anything from traditional sweets and artisanal food to locally crafted keepsakes and fashion items. Airports often stock a variety of items that showcase the culture and flavours of the place.
For instance, if you want to make your Jewel Changi shopping experience in Singapore worth your while, have a look at the airport’s souvenir shops. Bengawan Solo is known for their local kuehs and confectioneries that are made using traditional methods. Gift by Changi Airport, on the other hand, offers a wide range of specially curated lifestyle products that celebrate all things Singapore.
Buy Items That Are Cheaper at the Airport
While it’s true that some items are more expensive in airports, there are also certain products that may actually be cheaper to purchase before your flight. In particular, you can take advantage of duty-free shopping opportunities for goods such as alcohol, perfume, and cosmetics, as they are subject to lower taxes and duties compared to retail stores outside the airport. Keep in mind, however, that duty-free allowances and regulations vary depending on your destination. Thus, familiarise yourself with the relevant customs and duty policies to make informed decisions.
Look for Promotions
Many airport shops offer promotions and discounts to attract travellers. So, if you want to get some last-minute shopping done at the airport, be on the lookout for signs, flyers, or digital displays advertising special offers, sales, or bundle deals on various products. From BOGO (buy one, get one) offers to seasonal discounts, these promotions can help you save money and maximise the value of your purchases, allowing you to stretch your shopping budget further and enjoy greater savings on your last-minute purchases.
Know the Exchange Rate and Compare Prices
It’s always a good idea to be aware of the current exchange rate if you're travelling internationally. When you’re familiar with the currency of your destination and have a rough idea of its value in your home currency, you can avoid overspending or getting short-changed. Additionally, take the time to compare prices of items you're interested in across different airport shops. While convenience is a key factor in last-minute shopping, prices can vary between retailers, so it pays to do a bit of research to ensure you're getting the best value for money.
Review Airport Restrictions
Take a moment to review any restrictions or regulations that may affect your purchases at the airport. Certain items, such as liquids, gels, and aerosols, may be subject to security restrictions or size limitations when carried onto the aircraft as hand luggage. Furthermore, if you're travelling internationally, be mindful of customs regulations regarding the importation of goods into your destination country. Some items may be prohibited or subject to additional duty fees, so it's important to familiarise yourself with the relevant rules to avoid any surprises or complications.
Keep Your Receipts
As you make your last-minute purchases at the airport, be sure to hold onto your receipts. Doing this not only allows you to track your expenses but also ensures that you can provide proof of purchase in case you encounter any issues with the items you've bought. With the receipt in hand, you'll have an easier time exchanging or returning the item for a refund or replacement. Plus, if you're travelling internationally and have purchased goods eligible for tax refunds or duty-free claims, you'll need to present your receipts when claiming your refund.
Last-minute airport shopping can be a stressful experience because you feel like you’re always pressed for time. However, by following the tips outlined in this article, you can make the most of your time at the airport and ensure a seamless shopping experience.
