You’re stuck in an airport, wandering the duty-free shops before your flight leaves for home.
Everything is bright, shiny, and beckoning. It’s duty free. Right? Doesn’t that make it a good deal?
Even though you may find a deal once in a great while, it’s not a given that your duty-free purchase is a good buy. In fact, you’ll most likely find those electronic goods, beauty products, and high end purses usually cost less at home or online.
Do your homework before you fly. Get some idea of what products cost. Look at those you might be tempted to purchase.
Duty-free liquor. Think about the price. Then, think about carrying it on the plane with you. Do you really have room in your carry-on?
Of course, there are exceptions. Locally made or hand-crafted gifts made in that region make sense. Especially, if they are not available anywhere else. But, this also comes with a caveat. Is it something you want or need? Or, does it just look great at the time?
Maybe you’re walking around the airport waiting to head out on vacation.
Every store or magazine stand in every airport seems to have a selection of neck pillows. Should you buy one or not? If you really think you need a neck pillow, buy it before you leave home. Travel clothing websites, online, Amazon, and so many more carry them for a fraction of the cost at the airport.
Another thing that may grab your attention, is getting your foreign currency when you first land in a different country. Stop. Currency exchange desks in airports will charge a high transaction fee. Really high, in some cases. Sure, it’s convenient. But, probably not worth the fees.
Before you fly, get some money at your local bank. Many do not have foreign transaction fees.
Or, wait until you get to your destination. An ATM from a national bank will change less of a transaction fee than the airport.